New Term, New Spaces: Summer Refurbishment Success at Cardinal Newman

Over a 12‑week window we undertook a complete first‑floor refurbishment within a live college environment. Working closely with the client and our design partners, we developed phasing plans that allowed the strip‑out, structural alterations and fit‑out to proceed safely while adjoining teaching spaces remained in use. The scope included:

-Internal demolition and reconfiguration: removal of ceiling grids, doors, partitions, fixed furniture and floor finishes to create enlarged classroom and breakout areas, followed by installation of new stud walls, acoustic partitions and door sets.

-Mechanical and electrical upgrades: isolation and strip‑out of redundant services, followed by new power, data, LED lighting and ventilation installations coordinated around existing ductwork and voids.

-Finishes and fittings: new suspended ceilings, durable flooring, bespoke joinery and complete decoration to deliver a modern learning environment that meets current safeguarding and fire‑regulation standards.

-Fire safety improvements: installation of compliant fire doors, upgraded alarms and fire‑stopping measures to meet current regulations and enhance protection for students and staff.

-Detailed design team meetings were held at each stage to coordinate room data sheets, approve drawings and manage change.

A deadline‑driven procurement schedule captured key sign‑off dates for materials, fixings and furniture, ensuring samples and options were reviewed and approved in good time.

The result is a high‑quality refurbishment completed on programme and ready for the autumn term—a great example of how careful planning and technical delivery can transform educational spaces without impacting term time.