The Learning Experience
Year
2023
Size
9,800 ft 2
Duration
26 Weeks
Location
Leatherhead
Features
Multiple Age Specific Classrooms, Classroom Bathrooms, Full Catering Kitchen
Deliverables
M&E Strip Out and Re-Installation, External Ground Works, Specialist Security Door Installation
Transforming a traditional office building into a cutting-edge early learning centre.
The Challenge
Completing the complex conversion from traditional office building to state-of-the-art nursery.
The existing office space required significant reconfiguration and fit-out to meet the specific needs of a modern early years facility. We collaborated with a wider professional team to ensure the design met the specific needs of the The Learning Experience's (TLE's) standards. We became trusted advisors for the complex strip-out, fit-out, and construction phases.
The comprehensive design plan incorporated classrooms, specialised play areas and essential facilities. Our specialist teams handled complex aspects like mechanical installations, structural modifications, and external groundwork.
What We Did
The transformation of the building presented unique challenges.
The initial phase involved the complete removal of the existing office layout. Walls needed to be strategically dismantled to accommodate new classroom configurations and play areas. Additionally, existing raised access flooring posed a hurdle. Its removal was necessary to create a more suitable surface for young children and to allow for the installation of new, specialist floor coverings that met safety and hygiene regulations.
Removing the raised access flooring not only addressed safety concerns but also allowed for the introduction of a new internal secondary staircase. This additional stairwell enhanced accessibility within the nursery and ensured compliance with fire safety regulations for childcare facilities.
A significant challenge arose from the necessity of integrating a completely new M&E system within the existing building's shell. The existing office infrastructure was simply not equipped to handle the demands of a modern nursery. Our team of MEP specialists tackled this hurdle by strategically installing a comprehensive new system throughout the remodelled space. This new system ensured proper ventilation, heating, and plumbing – essential elements for creating a comfortable, healthy, and energy-efficient learning environment for young children.
Necessary structural works included lifting pre-cast concrete floor planks on the ground floor to create new drainage connections, a vital aspect of the new M&E system.
Transforming a traditional office building into a vibrant nursery presented a unique set of challenges, but through careful planning, innovative solutions, and collaboration, we ensured a successful . outcome that exceeded expectations.