Structural & Refurbishment Transformation
Aces Academy needed to transform one of their internal spaces into a safer, more functional environment for staff and students. The project involved removing a load-bearing wall and a central pillar to create a larger, open area, while upgrading finishes, drainage, lighting, and sanitary facilities. The challenge was to carry out these complex structural and refurbishment works safely, on time, and with minimal disruption to the school’s daily activities.
The project began with a structural survey by a qualified engineer, confirming which walls and pillars could be safely removed. Temporary supports were installed to secure the concrete slab above, and the ceiling was prepared to expose the slab for inspection. Class B engineering brick padstones were positioned, and a 203 x 203 x 46 UB steel beam was installed, treated, and painted to ensure long-term structural integrity.
Health and safety was a key priority throughout the project. All works were carried out following UK regulations and industry guidance, including proper temporary supports, safe demolition practices, and controlled access to the work area, ensuring the safety of both the workforce and school users.
Once the structural work was complete, the interior was reimagined to meet the school’s requirements. The layout was adapted to accommodate new drainage and plumbing systems. Metro tiles were fitted along window elevations and steel-supporting pillars, with aluminium trims and sealed edges for durability and hygiene.
A Zentia suspended grid ceiling with TVS Cleancare tiles was installed, integrated with energy-efficient LED lighting and access panels for maintenance. Altro XPressLay vinyl flooring with coved skirting and welded joints provided a slip-resistant, hard-wearing surface suitable for high-traffic areas.
Washrooms were modernised with full-height cubicles, IPS panels to conceal pipework, and new sanitaryware, including dual-flush toilets, sinks, and taps. Sensor and time-flow options were included to reduce water consumption. Walls and ceilings were finished with hard-wearing, wipeable paint to ensure durability in a busy school environment.
All redundant materials and waste were carefully removed from the site, leaving the space clean, safe, and ready for immediate use.
The project successfully combined structural reinforcement with a full interior upgrade, creating a modern, functional, and visually appealing learning environment. The removal of the wall and central pillar opened up the space, while the new finishes, sanitaryware, and services enhanced both usability and hygiene. Aces Academy now enjoys a flexible, safe, and long-lasting space that meets the school’s current needs and provides a solid foundation for the future.
