(10 WEEKS EARLY)
Alnwick District Playhouse Trust
ARTIST ACCOMMODATION RENOVATION
Project Details
Working with the Alnwick District Playhouse Trust, our Newcastle branch successfully delivered a comprehensive transformation of a detached building next to the Alnwick District Playhouse, an established arts centre, theatre and cinema in Alnwick Northumberland.
The refurbishment and conversion project created high quality residential space for the artists comprising: six bedrooms, each with an en-suite bath/shower WC; a DDA compliant bathroom and a shared office, dining area and kitchen.
Thanks to the efficiency of the project team, the work was completed an impressive 10 weeks ahead of the original schedule. This early completion played a critical role in enabling the client to finalise and submit their funding application well before the grant deadline.
View the Case Study
The delivery was to a high standard and the coordination of work was done seamlessly. The CLC team were attentive to our needs and were very good at offering cost efficient options to issues as they arose. Communication with [the Quantity Surveyor] Josh Morgan was excellent and we felt throughout that the project was in safe hands. CLC’s experience in refits for the hotel industry was obvious as they were aware of our need to open on time and the value of the rooms to us as clients.
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Artist Director
Challenges
An unexpected and logistically demanding challenge emerged during the early clearance phase of the refurbishment when the team discovered a 2.5-tonne safe that had been abandoned by the previous owners. To overcome this we brought in a specialist HIAB crane to remove the safe.
Another challenge was working within the traditional building, which required careful preservation of original features. We carefully installed internal wall insulation around architecural details, especially the timber window shutters and surrounds, ensuring these elements were retained.
Sustainability
Above and beyond the original scope of works, the team also provided futureproofing measures into the project. Our team installed a new heating system to accommodate the integration of an air source heat pump (ASHP). This upgrade, along with the energy efficient lighting installed, will ensure that the artist accommodation is not only functional and comfortable, but the client also benefits from long-term energy savings.
Specifications
Full rewire and energy efficient lighting
Roof replacement and repairs
Stonework repairs and alterations
New heating system
Futureproofing for ASHP installation
New hot and cold water system
Sanitaryware installation
Full redecoration including flooring
Fire door and pocket door installation
Bespoke kitchen
DDA alterations including ramps, widening doorways, wet-rooms and automatic door systems
Structural alterations
Wall and underfloor insulation
Drainage alternations for new en-suites
ALNWICK PLAYHOUSE
Apprenticeships
A noteworthy aspect of the project was the involvement of two apprentices who joined the team to assist with the works. Both apprentices were given the opportunity to develop their skills in a real-world environment, focusing particularly on joinery.
Under the guidance of experienced tradespeople and mentors from the branch, they gained hands-on experience that will serve as a strong foundation for their careers in the industry.
Client Benefits
Efficient Project
Programme completed 10 weeks earlier than originally scheduled.
Futureproofing
Modernising systems ready for energy efficient measures.
Before:
After:
High Quality
Entire project completed with zero snags.
Reduced Costs
Branch found savings for the client without compromising on quality.
