Case Study

University Technical College Leeds

Architect
BAM Construction
Client
University Technical College Leeds

Introduction:

We collaborated with BAM Construction and Sparta Systems to reduce the original concept of 30 wall kinds to just four. This decreased material waste and improved performance while preserving the building's attractive historical characteristics.

Problem:

Converting a Grade II-listed Victorian industrial structure into a cutting-edge university technical college is no easy undertaking. Only the brick façade and a lattice of thin steel roof trusses remain from the original structure at University Technical College Leeds (UTC Leeds). These traits give the institution character, but they also raise a number of practical and performance obstacles that we must solve.

Solution:

The initial designs for this complicated structure contained 30 distinct wall kinds, which would have resulted in a significant amount of waste and a hefty effort. So, in collaboration with BAM Construction and Sparta Systems, we simplified things. Working jointly and imaginatively, we reduced the specification to only four wall types, resulting in a speedier installation and significantly less material waste. Thermal performance was also important at UTC Leeds. The original walls were simple brick, with arched windows glazed to full height. Our GypLyner Universal, combined with a 40mm Gyproc ThermaLine Basic board, offered the ideal solution, significantly improving the building's thermal performance.

 

We care about building better.

Client's Words:

“The end result speaks for itself: the quality of the finish, the details around the brick exposed windows, just a fabulous finish all round.”