Introduction
Forestry England approached Avent Interiors to undertake a critical office refurbishment project focusing on the repair of extensive water damage. Forestry England is the leading government body that is tasked with managing publicly accessible forests and woodlands. The primary goal of the project was to replace damaged infrastructure, specifically the flooring, and further ensure the longevity of Forestry England’s workspace whilst minimising disruptions.
Client Background and Challenges
Forestry England had suffered significant water damage in their office space. This caused swelling in the raised floor panels, damage to the partitioning, waterlogged carpet tiles and potential damage to the electrical systems. The damage not only affected the main office area but also extended to the conference room, kitchen area and several meeting rooms. Avent Interiors were chosen to facilitate the refurbishment due to their reputation in managing multiple successful interiors projects, including many refurbishments.
Project Goals and Requirements
The refurbishment aimed to replace water-damaged raised access floor panels and carpet tiles and repair and refurbish the kitchen area. This would be achieved by addressing damaged vinyl flooring and swollen base units and reinstalling glass partitions while upgrading ceiling tiles, lighting, and electrical tracks. Ensuring compliance with industry standards for workplace safety and functionality was a key priority. Additionally, Forestry England required the use of durable materials and careful coordination with their in-house electricians to minimise downtime.
Solution and Implementation
Avent Interiors kicked off the process by conducting a detailed survey and inspection of the water-damaged areas throughout the office space. During the process they ended up replacing over 200 waterlogged raised flooring panels which made up the majority of the open office spanning approximately 97m2. Avent Interiors ensured the partitions that were affected were dismantled and reinstalled where appropriate. The kitchen area refurbishment included the replacement of 23m2 of vinyl flooring along with the plywood subflooring.
Avent Interiors installed 144 m² of new carpet tiles in the affected areas, which included areas in the conference room and meeting spaces. When it came to electrical, the electrical tracks which were compromised by water damage were replaced in coordination with professional electricians.
There were several other auxiliary issues which needed addressing, such as the replacement of over 130 ceiling tiles and water-damaged oak skirting boards, windowsill refinishing and the refurbishment of the kitchen base units and worktops. Avent Interiors made a large effort to plan the schedule of the project to minimise the disruption to the day-to-day operations at Forestry England.
Results
Avent Interiors completed the refurbishment within schedule and on budget. The project resulted in a completely restored and refreshed workspace for the clients, Forestry England. The meticulous schedule which Avent Interiors developed helped the project to run smoothly and minimise downtime for Forestry England.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Avent Interiors and Forestry England was a complete success, with the project being completed within time and on budget. Forestry England has since invited Avent Interiors to quote further works. If you’re looking for an office refurbishment or fit out, then get in touch with Avent Interiors utilising their free site survey.
