Baines Wing | University of Leeds
SECTOR: EDUCATION | LOCATION: LEEDS | VALUE: £1.65m | TYPE OF WORK: REFURB | LEGNTH OF PROJECT: FOUR MONTHS | PROCUREMENT ROUTE: WAYS OF WORKING FRAMEWORK THROUGH PROCURE PARTNERSHIPS
Long-term client, University of Leeds appointed Sewell Construction to refurbish the ground, first and second floors of Baines Wing as part of its Ways of Working programme.
The space had previously been occupied by the Faculty of Medicine and Health and student services, and while the building was in good physical condition, it no longer met the requirements of a growing team or supported evolving hybrid working practices.
The University needed a solution that would create collaborative and flexible workspaces, while maintaining normal campus operations within an occupied building.
The solution
The space was in good condition, but unsuitable for what the University needed, its future ways of working and supporting hybrid working. We refurbished the ground, first and second floors of Baines Wing, including structural adjustments, flooring, ceiling updates and decoration.
The challenges
The refurbishment included structural alterations, flooring replacement, ceiling improvements and internal decoration across three floors – all within a building that was occupied throughout the works.
Close coordination with the University team formed a key part of project delivery, with additional planning required with external space and delivery access being limited through the wider campus environment.
A coordinated approach, including strict segregation measures and stakeholder liaison ensured a safe environment was maintained throughout the works.
"Sewell Construction worked closely with the University team throughout the Baines Wing project as part of the Ways of Working programme, addressing challenges constructively as they arose. Their collaborative, solutions focused approach and strong client care were key to delivering high quality spaces within a live, occupied building, and the project further strengthened the working relationship.”
The result
The completed refurbishment has created flexible spaces designed to support collaboration, inclusivity, flexibility and team cohesion. The new environment has been developed to create a positive work culture while providing work environments that meet both individual and team needs while supporting the University’s evolving ways of working.
“Their collaborative, solutions focused approach and strong client care were key to delivering high quality spaces within a live, occupied building, and the project further strengthened the working relationship.”
Jake Currie, University of Leeds, Capital Project Manger Testimonial
