Project Overview
SDC has undertaken multiple projects for ARM Holdings at their Fulbourn Campus in Cambridge, with a focus on modernising and standardising office spaces to foster collaboration and inspiration.
This project involved the refurbishment of open-plan office areas, communal spaces, staff recreation rooms, and showers at ARM 6.
During the tender stage, SDC identified a challenge: the newly refurbished areas were scheduled to be ventilated using the old laboratory extract system. This required a thorough design review and the implementation of a strategy to ensure compatibility with the refurbished spaces.
The project commenced with the internal strip-out of redundant laboratory space, followed by the installation of new stud and glazed partitions to delineate the new office areas.
The completed projects delivered modern offices and laboratories, supplemented by meeting rooms and breakout spaces. Notably, a striking reception area was created, featuring a Corian desk set against oak-panelled walls with LED strip lighting.
A section on the first floor underwent refurbishment to accommodate a refectory, completing the transformation of the campus into a contemporary and functional workspace environment.
Core Team
Gary Wykes
Board Director
Gary started his construction career at 16 as a Trainee Quantity Surveyor, combining hands-on experience with studies at Kettering and Northampton Colleges, where he earned ONC and HNC qualifications. He later obtained a part-time degree from Nottingham Trent University, completing it in five years thanks to his prior qualifications.
In the mid-1980s, Gary worked with a second company, managing projects in Hatfield and Aylesbury, before seeking a role closer to home. Joining SDC in the late 1980s, he progressed from Quantity Surveyor to Senior Quantity Surveyor and then Manager of the Special Projects Division. During the early 1990s recession, Gary played a key role in restructuring the division, which focused on smaller-scale projects. This effort helped position SDC for long-term success in a challenging economic climate.
Appointed to SDC’s Board of Directors in 2003, Gary oversees the Special Projects Division, manages key projects, and contributes to strategic and financial planning. Between 2004 and 2007, he played a role in transitioning SDC to an Employee Benefit Trust (EBT), ensuring stability and employee-centred governance. His leadership alongside the other Board Directors has been pivotal in navigating challenges and ensuring stability.
Gary has fostered enduring relationships with major clients like Jaguar Land Rover and the University of Cambridge, emphasising quality and client satisfaction. Over decades, he has supported SDC’s evolution from a more informal operation to a professional, structured organisation. As the company continues to grow and adapt, he remains committed to supporting its ongoing success and ensuring it is well-positioned to meet future challenges.
Graham Staughton
Special Projects Manager
Graham is one of SDC’s longest-serving employees, having joined the company in 1981. With over 40 years of experience, his career has evolved significantly, and he now leads the day-to-day operations of the Special Projects division. Since his appointment as Department Manager, his leadership and experience have been key drivers in the continued success and growth of the Special Projects Division
Grant Thompson
Commercial Manager
Matt Wells
Planning Manager
