Therese House

This complex project involved the complete overhaul of a student accommodation building's façade to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations. GPF Lewis successfully delivered a solution that not only addressed the immediate safety concerns but also enhanced the building's aesthetic appeal and long-term durability.

Our client, a leading developer in the student accommodation sector, tasked us with designing and constructing a comprehensive façade remediation solution. The existing façade materials were deemed non-compliant with fire safety standards and required replacement with non-combustible alternatives.

The project encompassed the removal and replacement of the existing Insulation Render System (IRS) and rainscreen cladding. Additionally, we implemented new fire barriers where necessary to enhance the building's overall fire resistance. The remediation works were carried out within an occupied building, necessitating careful planning and coordination to minimise disruption to residents.

One of the primary challenges was the limited access to many of the building's elevations. To overcome this, we employed a combination of work access methods, including extensive abseiling operations. Moreover, the limited space on site required innovative solutions for material storage and welfare facilities. Through close collaboration with the client and building management teams, we successfully devised a workable plan that minimised disruption to the site's operations.

By successfully navigating these challenges, GPF Lewis delivered a high-quality façade remediation project that not only met the client's safety requirements but also exceeded their expectations in terms of aesthetics and functionality.