Project Description
International House is the oldest residential college of the University of Wollongong, it provides accommodation to approximately 222 students. To give students in the International House a pleasant experience while living away from home, The University of Wollongong undertook a complete refurbishment of the 60s style Student Accommodation.
A feat of design and refurbishment that was to be delivered over 4 years by Programmed Building Projects, it was imperative that student accommodation and services remained open with minimal disruption over the four-year-refurbishment programme.
The University selected a company able to complete the work to the highest standard, within budget and schedule. Utmost respect for the health and safety of staff, students and visitors was also crucial.
Project Solution
A staged approach to the refurbishment was carried out to ensure that resident occupancy remained at maximum capacity for over 90% of the project. As an older building, built in the 1960s, there were challenges in bringing the building to suitable modern safety compliance and technological standards.
Design and installation of an Occupant Warning System and updating the fire evacuation system was necessary for the safety of future student residents. This, along with a modern refresh of over 225 Student Rooms, including the large commercial kitchen, shared kitchen, multiple common spaces, dining area, offices spaces and exterior façade were also updated.
Previously rarely used spaces were modernised and adjusted to improve quality of life and create a community hub for students.
Project Outcome
All areas of the International house now have a fresh, clean look that the resident students would be proud to call home and relax in. From a more streamlined and light-filled dining area, fitted with new ceilings to creating a brand-new Games Room where students could study, socialise, watch movies or play games. Programmed Building Services utilised parts of the old building (such as exposing the unique rafters in the Games Room) to pay homage to the history of the building, and create spaces filled with character.
Leanne Robinson, Student Residence Manager commented on Project Manager Beau Cropper’s and Programmed’s outstanding performance throughout the refurbishment, stating “Mr Cropper’s extensive knowledge of the building trade, his expertise in programmed and project management, attention to detail and his overall work ethic are exceptional. He has constantly delivered major projects ahead of schedule, and always to the highest specifications and standards.”
