Waterhouse Building – University of Liverpool
Education
Project type
2023
Project completion date
£2m
Projected value
4
Project duration (months)
The University of Liverpool commissioned our trusted onside Education team with this substantial refurbishment project.
The scope encompassed the restoration of internal office and conference facilities across three floors within the historic Waterhouse Building.
This listed Victorian building’s restoration included internal refurbishment of teaching spaces, offices, and a student hub, coupled with intricate mechanical and electrical works.
This beautiful refurbishment stands as a testament to the careful restoration and transformation of a historically significant space.
The project managed to combine modern functionality with historical preservation, ensuring the continued relevance and usability of this cherished institution.
The project aimed to delicately refurbish and upgrade the internal spaces of the Waterhouse Building while preserving its historical integrity.
Opened in 1892 — this building gave rise to the description of provincial universities as “red brick.” Challenges included working within the constraints of this listed building, ensuring the protection of period features such as glazed brick finishes, and executing the works within a tight 16-week summer program.
The Waterhouse Building’s listed status required careful consideration to protect its period features, notably the glazed brick finishes that contribute to the internal aesthetic.
The project maintained a delicate balance between modern upgrades and the preservation of historical elements.
The project focused on revitalising the Waterhouse Building’s spaces. Internal upgrades were made to teaching areas, offices, and the creation of a student hub.
Remodelling efforts were undertaken, alongside the removal and replacement of finishes to refresh the spaces.
Glazed partitions were introduced on the ground floor to establish small group study areas.
This included:
- Stripping out existing finishes and fixtures.
- Erecting internal subdividing stud walls.
- Designing, supplying, and installing moving walls.
- Modifying and adding to the existing HVAC system.
- Installing small power, data, and access control systems.
- Implementing new finishes and decoration works.
- Ensuring the proper completion of commissioning works.
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