CBG worked with the university and Associated Architects on the remodelling and transformation of a former administration area into a dynamic flexible study space for undergraduate students.

The layout can be reconfigured for general studying use and the summer conference trade, with partitions and lighting controls enabling areas to be sub-divided or combined. State of the  art multimedia facilities are included, to allow students to share documents and to use collaborative learning and creativity tools for group projects; this features a full height video wall along with smaller screens and a comprehensive WiFi network.

The project had to be completed in a very tight timescale, with a limited time period available to vacate the area and undertake the work. The design stage commenced in September 2012, works began in January 2013, and the completed project was handed opened by the Vice Chancellor in June. Over 200 students used the space on the first day of operation for exam revision.

The project was undertaken within the Rootes social building, which includes the main student restaurant, bars, conference facilities, a Costa Coffee outlet and areas used for exams. Many services cross feed between zones, requiring detailed investigations and a strategy to minimise disruption and noise to other areas. The building dates from the original 1960s campus construction, and has very restricted ceiling heights. This posed a particular challenge with the ventilation strategy, due to the high occupancy levels of the space and the requirement to maintain a steady comfortable environment. Several unforeseen problems arose during construction, however using a proactive approach and frequent engagement with the contractor and architect we were able to resolve these issues and ensure the project was delivered on time.

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