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Grade II listed structures, Portland Villas, are located in the heart of Plymouth University’s campus. However, despite their historic status, the villas were in need of extensive structural upgrades, as well as significant renovation and regeneration – internally and externally – to provide senior university staff with high quality, modern office space.
Requiring respect and sensitivity during every stage of works, the TEC team were tasked with bringing the structures up to modern standards, ensuring the buildings were structurally sound and safe for occupancy, while also seamlessly connecting the old with the new.
Undertaking the work in phases, focus initially was placed on removing and replacing over 10 different roofing areas, across 3-10 Portland Villas. Removing the failing and fatigued roofing materials, across both pitch and flat roof surfaces, our team installed a high-performance, warm roofing system, with its main covering consisting of natural Brazilian slates to compliment the buildings existing architecture and listed status. Extensive rendering, carpentry and leadwork also followed, to ensure the building was not only watertight, but also thermally efficient, with future occupants benefiting from reduced energy and heating requirements.
Each building presented different challenges, with nearly every inch of the structures being upgraded; almost every room was stripped back to ensure all elements were suitable and safe for the long term. From working with expert craftspeople to restore ornate plaster detailing and Lincrusta wallpaper, to bringing each unique entrance hall and stairwell back to life, attention to detail and quality were essential to the success of the project.
With every building requiring its own bespoke programme of works, 3-10 Portland Villas have been expertly and sensitively restored, with finishing touches including major internal and external decoration works, as well as a full fit-out. The integration of standout historic features has resulted in the creation of inspiring working environments, each with their own unique architectural identity. Occupants now have access to clean, open-plan working spaces, alongside high-quality, new kitchen and break-out areas.
Completed on programme, we were pleased to handover the first completed buildings back to Plymouth University, with staff taking up residence shortly after. As part of a long-term strategic regeneration project, which is focused on upgrading a significant number of buildings on campus, the TEC team is continuing similar works at other structures, including 19 Portland Villas, with these at varying stages (more updates coming soon).
As a long-term trusted construction partner to Plymouth University, we have over three decades of experience within the education sector; providing innovative and high-quality solutions for a range of projects across the region. Our expertise also ensures we are perfectly placed to protect, preserve and enhance historic spaces, and by working closely with conservationists, architects and custodians, we have played a significant role in bringing historic buildings back into use for the benefit of the community and our clients.