Menu Award Wins for Upperton Road, Leicester Student Accommodation Scheme Our Upperton Road, Student Accommodation Scheme has been awarded Value Award at the CE Midlands Awards 2021 and was a finalist in the Off Site Awards 2021. Upperton Road is the sixth scheme we have delivered with our client and partner Zone Developments and MAS Architecture. The purpose-built student residence is located in the Bede Island area of Leicester. The scheme consisting of 46 self-contained studio apartments, includes a gym, cinema room, private study areas, laundry facilities, indoor and outdoor communal areas and a large outdoor cycle store. The project included the refurbishment of an existing block, located within a Grade II listed building, and the design and construction of two additional 3-4 storey blocks. The key client success factors for the project were to deliver the project on time for the following year student intake. Deliver the project sensitively within the residential area including an adjacent school. Positively impact the local economy with new students residing in the area, utilising local businesses and amenities. Deliver a building which was fit for purpose, with low maintenance requirements and is energy efficient. Maximise the number of apartments created within the site to provide the best return on investment. MAS Architecture designed to scheme to BIM L2, aiding the coordination of architectural plans with other disciplines and specialist subcontractor designed elements. In order to maximise the space within the site, the architect designed a bay window abstract and elevation treatment that allowed the blocks to be closer in proximity, while avoiding direct overlooking and providing ample natural light to each studio apartment. The site is located adjacent to a school within narrow, one-way, residential roads with limited access. A self-erecting crane strategy was adopted, minimising disruption to the school and local residents as this approach is silent, does not produce exhaust fumes, and with remote-control operation it increases visibility, safety and precision picking. As part of the schemes sustainability strategy a green roof was installed. The green roof provides many environmental benefits including acting as a rainwater buffer, purifying the air, reducing the ambient temperature, regulating the indoor temperature, saving energy and encouraging biodiversity in the city. Modular bathroom pods were also utilised on the scheme to cut construction time, minimise disruption, reduce materials and waste and ensure excellent quality and low ongoing maintenance. The pods incorporate Grohe water saving features and a dual flush cistern making them more energy efficient. Manufactured in factory conditions and delivered fully fitted to site there is greater manufacturing precision, materials are more accurately calculated, reducing energy consumption and running costs. This quick turnaround means the project timeline was reduced by 10%. The use of pre-cast concrete for stairs and intermediate floors also simplified the construction process, reduced construction time and increased quality and safety on site. The scheme was delivered on time and on budget at the end of July 2020, without any delays, despite the national and local lockdowns and COVID 19 restrictions during 2020 due to the exceptional collaborative approach adopted by the whole team. Categories: Awards Project Copyright © Stepnell Ltd. 2021 Policies & Reports