The Design Phase

As the principal designer, Innova delivered comprehensive layouts for each room according to the client specifications, optimising circulation, workflow and storage. This included:

• Plans, elevations, and key sections

• Dimensioned layouts

• A comprehensive list of all fixtures, fittings, and finishes depicted in the plans and elevations, including specifications for key items and fitting details

• Structural design details with key plans and sections

• A detailed written specification accompanied by drawings to clarify the specifications for mechanical and electrical proposals

• Internal and external drainage layouts, indicating the locations of access points.

Following comprehensive site surveys, our design team finalised and approved all drawings, developed 3D visuals, and provided samples for final colour selection before preparing all files for production.

CDM 2015: The Construction Phase

While most of the work was scheduled for completion over the summer break, certain activities were planned during the school term. This required isolating the construction site from the rest of the school using physical barriers and secure locks, ensuring that fire escape routes remained fully accessible and uncompromised.
Prior to starting on site, all personnel working on site required a current clean, enhanced DBS, as well as CSCS cards.

Comprehensive Turnkey Services

Innova delivered a comprehensive range of turnkey services providing a complete solution from initial planning to final commissioning. Our approach was focused on mitigating risk, ensuring a smooth hassle-free project management experience.

Regular progress meetings were conducted biweekly on-site to review the status of the work. During these meetings, actions were identified and responsibilities assigned. These discussions ensured that any issues were promptly addressed, timelines were adhered to, and the project remained on track for successful completion.

• Strip Out & Demolition

The strip-out procedure began by safely disconnecting all gas, water, and electrical supplies. We carefully removed reusable items and relocated them nearby. For unnecessary items, along with redundant fixtures and fittings, we ensured safe disposal through the appropriate channels.

Once the strip-out was complete, the spaces were fully prepared for the next phase of construction.

• Building Works & Trenching

The building works involved floor trenching to accommodate separate electrical, plumbing, and gas services, aligning with the new design per room and ensuring the efficient integration of utilities into the building’s infrastructure.

The first fix for electrical, plumbing and gas services were routed and installed adhering to safety regulations, while laying the groundwork for the subsequent phases of construction.

No flexible hoses were used to water systems, all outlets were piped direct to source by copper pipework.

• Electrical Sub Main Works / Complete Rewiring

The project involved a complete electrical rewiring and an upgrade of the electrical switchgear across all designated areas. This thorough approach ensured that the electrical system complied with current safety standards and accommodate the increased demands of modern electrical loads.

Furthermore, electrical shut-off switches were installed in each room, offering easy access to emergency shut-off.

• Plumbing Installation

Our specialist contractor implemented backflow protection for all new water services to ensure compliance with local water authority regulations. This involved installing a new sectional header tank specifically designed to provide backflow protection in the science labs, thereby safeguarding the water supply from potential contamination and ensuring a safe environment for laboratory operations.

• Gas Services

As part of the gas service installation, Merlin 1000V gas proving and ventilation interlock systems, along with the relevant gas shut-off systems, were installed in each room. Additionally, CO2 PPM monitors were set up in all science laboratories and preparation rooms, and these monitors are connected to the new ventilation system.

• Ceiling & LED Lighting

New ceiling tiles were installed in all suspended ceilings throughout the facility as needed. LED lighting, emergency lighting, and advanced lighting controls were added, achieving an illumination level of 500 lux at 0.75 meters above the finished floor with a uniformity ratio of 0.8, supported by a daylight control strategy. Passive infrared (PIR) sensors for presence detection and daylight-responsive features were implemented in every room according to the client’s specifications. The LED lighting system was designed to be fully dimmable, with zoned configurations allowing multiple switching options for enhanced flexibility.

• New Flooring

New 2mm thick anti-slip vinyl flooring was installed in all rooms as specified by the client. Suitable screeds and surface treatments were applied accordingly.

• Decoration

All areas were completely redecorated with two coats of Mineral Haze 4 Diamond Eggshell paint for the walls, two coats of the same paint in white for all ceilings, and two coats of Johnson Leyland Warwick Grey Gloss for all woodwork.

• Furniture Manufacture & Install

All Fixtures, Furniture and Equipment (FFE) was provided by Innova including desks, service pods, stools, teacher demo desks and storage units tailored per room.

1. All science labs included a general teaching wall, were equipped with data trunking, power outlets, data connections, and AV links from the teacher’s desk to the teaching wall. This setup supports a smart screen and features concealed containment to house all services.

2. New blinds were installed on all windows as specified by the client. Full blackout blinds were fitted in all science labs and prep rooms, while grey vertical blinds were installed in all other areas.

3. Allowance was made for two lockable flammable chem stores and a recirculatory fume cupboard.

With the second fix, commissioning, and final decoration complete, the new facility was ready for inspection. After the snagging process, an O&M manual was prepared as a comprehensive reference guide, which included:

• Specific references to record drawings and vendor/manufacturer documentation for easy access to additional information.

• Detailed information and instructions, including safety guidelines, to assist operators in maintaining the system or product effectively.

• Procedures for operators to follow in case of fire, equipment malfunction, or triggered alarms

• Essential safety information and warnings to protect both the general public and maintenance staff.

• All product warranties, commissioning certificates, energy ratings, and environmental assessments.

Following a thorough final deep clean, the new science facility was officially handed over to the client. This handover process included a comprehensive walk-through of the facility, where the client was introduced to all new features, systems, and equipment.

Key operational aspects were reviewed, including safety protocols, maintenance schedules, and the use of specialised areas. This ensured the client was fully prepared to operate and maintain the facility, marking the successful completion of the project.