WEST POINT HOUSE - INTERNAL RENOVATION WORKS
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Client: Private Property Owner
Location: West Point House, Walney Island, Barrow-in-Furness
Project Type: Commercial, Interior Renovation Works
Duration: February 2023 – June 2024
Services Provided: Feasibility, Building Regulations Application, Tender Management, Onsite Project Management
CLIENT CHALLENGE
West Point House, a 39-bedroom HMO (House in Multiple Occupation), was primarily used to house workers employed by local businesses. With shared bathroom facilities in many units, the property owner recognized a pressing need to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. The employers housing their staff at the property were concerned that shared bathrooms heightened the likelihood of illness, which could impact business operations and worker safety.
To address these concerns and retain valuable contracts with local employers, the property owner initiated a project to convert six existing bedrooms into 12 individual ensuite bathrooms. The ultimate goal was to create a safer environment by eliminating shared bathrooms, while maintaining compliance with health and safety standards.
OUR APPROACH
The client approached us with a clear vision—they wanted to avoid the logistical burden of managing the works themselves. Having already converted some bedrooms in the past, they sought a more efficient, professional solution this time around. Our role was to obtain Building Control Approval, prepare the full tender pack, manage the tender process, and oversee the works onsite, ensuring everything stayed on budget and met the client's specifications.
We began by assessing the layout of the bedrooms and worked closely with the client to refine it. The existing layout posed a few challenges, especially around the large windows that would complicate the division of rooms. We introduced a dog-leg design between the ensuites to avoid modifying the windows while also providing larger shower areas. This design revision allowed for both a more rational layout and cost-effective execution.
Throughout the process, we followed Building Regulations to ensure full compliance. We also managed the on-site works in four phases, ensuring minimal disruption to residents. Each wing of the property had its own fire exit, which allowed contractors to work within a contained zone, reopening it to tenants before moving to the next.
DESIGN AND EXECUTION
The focus of the project was to create individual ensuites as cost-effectively as possible without compromising on aesthetics or functionality. The six original bedrooms were converted into 12 ensuites, each serving two adjacent rooms.
One of the key challenges was avoiding alterations to large existing windows, which we solved by introducing a dog-leg layout between the ensuites. This approach not only preserved the windows but also allowed for more spacious shower areas, a practical and aesthetically pleasing outcome.
Additionally, initial concerns about the above-ground drainage systems were alleviated after site investigations revealed that the drainage infrastructure had been logically installed, allowing us to avoid costly and unnecessary additional works. This was a significant cost-saving measure, as we had initially allowed for both a drainage survey and unforeseen works.
The project was completed in four phases to ensure minimal disruption to the residents, and by using separate fire exits, we kept the main entrance unaffected throughout the work.
THE OUTCOME
The project was completed on time and well within budget, largely due to the savings realized through the efficient handling of drainage works. The client was pleased with the final result, and despite the expense and loss of a few units, they retained their valuable contracts with local employers. This provided a sustained and guaranteed source of income, making the investment worthwhile.