Kingston

Creating a community feel

The challenge at iQ Kingston was to take a product that was coming to the end of its lifecycle and transform it into a building that catered to the needs of the University and its students, creating a safe, modern and quality environment that stood apart from competitors. Our key objective was to resolve a lack of community feeling and identity throughout the accommodation, with a real consideration for the environmental impact of the project. We made it our priority to ensure that waste-building materials generated during the project were recycled, reused or disposed of appropriately.

What we did

We refurbished 214 en suite rooms and studios, together with kitchens, bathrooms, communal and entrance areas, with modern furniture and fittings installed throughout. Inroom kitchens were installed with a “built-in” specification and en suite kitchens were furnished with dining and coffee tables. These were added to encourage communal and social living with ancillary lounge seating.

The communal areas were given a major overhaul with the intention of creating spaces that were stylish and welcoming, adding to the sense of community. A bicycle storage room was transformed into a new high specification gym. Available to all residents, the gym provides another valuable social space.

Results

We created outstanding living quarters for residents at iQ Kingston. Over 96% (approximately 135 tonnes) of the waste created from the project was recycled with two truckloads of reusable items donated to charities and other good causes. For example, old fridges were tested and donated to a local youth centre.

The development of the site has made a positive contribution to the iQ portfolio. Following the works, senior Kingston University personnel have confirmed their delight with the quality of the refurbishment.