Refurbishment
Project overview
Leon Building Services was appointed to deliver a comprehensive upgrade to the ground‑floor toilet facilities within the main building at Arden Academy, Knowle. The project focused on modernising existing provision, improving durability and accessibility, and introducing new, robust unisex toilet arrangements suitable for daily use within a busy secondary school environment.
Project details
Scope of works
1. Existing Toilet Refurbishment
The project involved the complete refurbishment of the existing girls’ and boys’ ground‑floor toilets, including:
- Full removal of existing cubicles and sanitaryware
- Installation of new, durable cubicle systems
- Replacement sanitaryware designed for high‑usage educational environments
The refurbished facilities were reconfigured to provide modern unisex toilet layouts, improving flexibility, inclusivity and long-term durability.
2. Pastoral Room Conversion
In addition to refurbishing existing facilities, Leon Building Services converted a centrally located pastoral room into new toilet accommodation. This involved:
- Internal alterations to create suitable layouts
- Installation of new sanitaryware and finishes
- Full integration of mechanical, electrical and plumbing services
The new facilities were designed to match the quality and specification of the refurbished toilets elsewhere in the building.
3. Mechanical & Electrical Services
The works included all necessary mechanical and electrical installations, ensuring full compliance and seamless operation, including:
- Plumbing and drainage alterations
- Electrical upgrades and new lighting
- Integration of services to align with updated layouts
All services were installed in coordination with Harris & Associate Surveyors Ltd and in line with current regulations and best practice.
Challenges & delivery
Delivering internal refurbishment works within an operational secondary school required careful planning and phased execution. Leon Building Services worked closely with the academy and contract administrator to ensure safety, minimise disruption, and maintain cleanliness and security throughout the programme.
The project commenced in July 2024 and was successfully completed in October 2024, delivered on time and to a high standard.
Key subcontractors
Leon Building Services partnered with trusted specialists to deliver high‑quality building services:
- Electrical Works: Hudson’s Electrical Solutions Ltd
- Mechanical Works: Town & Country Plumbing & Heating Ltd
“Leon Building Services delivered the project efficiently and to a very high standard. The upgraded facilities are modern, robust and well suited to the school’s needs, and the team managed the works professionally with minimal disruption.”
Outcomes
The completed works have delivered modern, durable and well‑designed toilet facilities that meet the needs of both pupils and staff. The new unisex arrangements provide improved flexibility, while the conversion of underused space has maximised the efficiency of the existing building.
This project highlights Leon Building Services’ experience in:
- Education sector refurbishments
- High‑quality welfare facilities
- Live school environments
- Coordinated mechanical and electrical installations
