University of Bradford refurbishment works

As part of the University of Bradford’s ongoing upgrade works, LEDA brought our expertise to a number of refurbishment projects. Our analysis at the planning stages helped the university to significantly reduce costs. Part of the project was to open out a cellular classroom and office space on the mezzanine level of an old sports’ hall. The existing building had very low ceilings, low light levels and limited access to windows – accordingly, the area had been underused for years.

Long-term relationship helps refurbishments raise the sustainability bar.

During site visits we spotted the opportunity to transform the offices by removing the ceilings and exposing the concrete covered soffits, providing an excellent opportunity to significantly reduce the costs of the project and improve the ceiling heights in the space. We were able to advise the surveyor/architect on how to use the acoustic rafts to the best effect and raise the ceiling levels, and we coordinated the ceiling layout. LEDA’s analysis also revealed that the thermal mass provided enough cooling to enable us to omit the large chiller and air-handling unit that had been assumed in previous design proposals and cost plans. Instead we designed a small mechanical fresh air system with supply to the deep plan areas and natural ventilation.

LEDA also worked on several other projects in partnership with the University of Bradford:
Team-based Learning 3 – teaching space
Working with Bowman Riley, LEDA provided M&E designs for the remodel of a single high specification, multi-use space. The original design had incorporated a raised floor and busbar electrical distribution, which made the re-model simple and tidy.

Pemberton Level 0 – staff offices
Watson Batty’s design to remodel Level 0 opens up office space and provides a student reception area. Bringing the area up to the latest specifications included high efficiency LED lighting, upgraded fire detection and renewed electrical wiring.

Richmond Building C Floor – Life Sciences office space
We designed low energy lighting, ventilation and services to suit the new layout and meet the latest UoB standards.