Aspire Construction recently completed three refurbishment projects across key buildings at The University of Manchester.
All works were carried out within occupied environments and delivered under framework agreements.
Each project required different technical approaches and specialist skills, from mechanical and electrical installations to glazed partitioning systems and comprehensive interior refurbishments.
Arthur Lewis Building – Creation of new office space
The Arthur Lewis Building project required Aspire Construction to transform an open-plan office environment into a dedicated four-person office space through the installation of glazed partitioning systems.
The project required careful planning to integrate the new space seamlessly into the existing layout, while ensuring building services were correctly rerouted to meet the updated requirements.
Scope of works
Aspire began by carefully stripping out the existing floor coverings in the area to prepare the space for construction. This was followed by targeted mechanical and electrical alterations, including repositioning lighting and upgrading electrical points to suit the new office configuration.
A key feature of the project was the installation of a full-height glazed partition, which created a private, modern, and acoustically-sound working space. The ceiling grid was adjusted to accommodate the new partitioning layout, ensuring a tidy and integrated finish.
New commercial-grade floor finishes were installed throughout the office space, providing durability and visual consistency with the surrounding areas. Our team also carried out full redecoration works, creating a fresh and professional internal environment.
In addition, a new ventilation duct was installed and connected through the roof to improve airflow to the newly enclosed space.
Stopford Building – Kitchen refurbishment
The kitchen refurbishment project within the Stopford Building involved modernising a tired and inefficient staff kitchen and adjoining small staffroom.
Aspire Construction delivered a full strip-out and fit-out package, transforming the area into a clean, functional, and compliant space for university staff.
Scope of works
The project began with the soft strip of existing floor finishes and ceiling components, making way for a complete overhaul of the area.
Our team then managed various M&E upgrades, including updated plumbing for the new kitchen layout, electrical reconfiguration for new appliances, and improved lighting to enhance usability and energy efficiency.
A brand-new fitted kitchen was supplied and installed, incorporating worktops, base and wall units, sinks, and integrated appliances.
New suspended ceilings were installed to improve both aesthetics and acoustic performance, and new hard-wearing floor coverings were laid throughout the kitchen and staffroom.
Finally, Aspire delivered a full internal redecoration package, leaving the space clean, bright, and ready for use.
Stopford Building – Staffroom and classroom refurbishment
The final scheme involved the transformation of a shared staffroom and classroom space, aimed at improving layout, lighting, and general presentation.
Scope of works
Works began with the removal of the existing carpet tiles and ceiling grid, as well as the removal of a folding partition wall that previously divided the two spaces. This allowed Aspire to create a more functional and permanent layout.
New stud walls were constructed to reconfigure the room layout to better suit the building’s operational needs. M&E alterations were carried out in line with the new wall positions, including upgraded lighting and power installations, ensuring the classroom and staffroom were equipped with reliable, modern systems.
A new suspended ceiling system was installed throughout, providing a clean finish and concealing the revised service routes above. Our team also installed new flooring across both areas, selecting materials for durability and ease of maintenance.
The project was completed with a full redecoration of walls, ceilings, and joinery, resulting in a refreshed, high-quality environment for university staff and students.
Delivering quality and reliability across framework projects
All three projects reflect Aspire Construction’s commitment to delivering high-quality refurbishment schemes on time and with minimal disruption to client operations.
Working across multiple sites within the university estate, Aspire coordinated all aspects of the work involved and managed complex service alterations to ensure each project met the required standards.
By combining technical expertise with a hands-on approach, Aspire Construction continues to provide real value to contractors and public sector clients operating under framework agreements.
To find out how Aspire Construction services can benefit your refurbishment or construction project, contact us on 0161 639 0999 or email projects@aspireconstruction.co.uk.