Cardiff University - Case Study

Project:

Construction Refurbishment – Fire Safety, Communal Area Improvements

Location:

Cardiff

In Brief:

For many young adults, student accommodation represents the first experience of independent living. As such, students expect accommodation that is comfortable, well maintained and suitable for modern life, while parents seek reassurance that it is both safe and compliant.

For first-year Cardiff University students due to move into five buildings across Gordon Hall and Senghennydd Court (Houses B, D, G & J), this was a key consideration.

To ensure the accommodation was ready ahead of the new academic year, we planned an extensive and time-sensitive refurbishment programme with ASW Property Services Ltd for completion over the summer break. Works included essential fire safety upgrades, aesthetic improvements to communal areas, and associated builders’ works.

Delivering critical fire Safety Improvements

First, new fire detection and alarm systems were installed throughout all buildings, ensuring compliance with current fire safety regulations. The systems were selected for reliability, coverage and ease of maintenance.

The existing fire compartmentation was also inspected and upgraded where required, including fire-stopping works, sealing of service penetrations and the installation of compliant fire barriers to restrict the spread of fire and smoke.

Following completion of these works, associated making-good repairs were undertaken to walls, ceilings, access panels and service risers to reinstate affected areas to a high standard.

Upgrading student accommodation for the new year

This work went hand-in-hand with the broader renewal of floor coverings across communal spaces, swapped out for durable, slip-resistant, easy-to-maintain coverings suited to the general wear and tear of high footfall areas.

Once these invasive works were completed, communal areas across the five buildings were fully redecorated, delivering a refreshed and consistent finish throughout.

Coordinating a Complex Summer Programme

The programme was delivered within a fixed summer recess period and required detailed coordination across all five buildings.

Working closely with ASW Property Services Ltd and Cardiff University estates and accommodation teams, we supported the development and sequencing of a detailed programme of works, enabling multiple workstreams to progress concurrently.

We also coordinated subcontractors and procurement activities, managed variation submissions to maintain programme continuity, and monitored progress through regular site meetings and reporting.

Delivered ahead of schedule

Through coordinated planning and proactive management, all works were completed a full week ahead of programme, allowing sufficient time for final checks and preparations ahead of students arrival.

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