Project Overview
SDC was tasked with undertaking a simple refurbishment of the Grade II listed lecture block to return the teaching spaces to the required standards as quickly as possible. The building was closed for Summer and Michaelmas term, providing just six months to turn the project around.
The works began with the removal of asbestos. SDC also removed contaminated bitumen adhesives from the roofing areas.
Originally programmed for eight weeks, unexpected finds and heavily contaminated areas meant that another eight weeks of asbestos removal was required. These works continued around the initial strip out to protect the time-precious programme.
SDC then began the re-roofing works to improve the insulation for better thermal performance. Scaffolding and hoists were erected, and a temporary roof was built to protect the building from the winter weather. The existing uninsulated roof was removed, and a new insulated roof with Zinc and Single Ply finishes was installed.
SDC carried out a full M&E strip-out and replacement, working within the listed building constraints.
This refurbishment included a full LED upgrade, updated AV and Assisted Hearing systems, and new lecture capture facilities.
The heating and ventilation systems were also replaced with more energy efficient models. A dedicated Mechanical Ventilation Heat Recovery and Cooling system was installed on the 3rd floor to combat the extreme temperatures, whilst a custom Air Handling Unit was located in the fourth-floor plant room to serve the remainder of the building ventilation. The top floors then saw the refurbishment of the underfloor heating in the lecture theatres.
The building was completely and meticulously redecorated, with the walls repainted and the listed features restored.
This included woodwork, internal and external doors, lecture theatre benching, acoustic timber panels, metalwork, stone flooring and windows. New UV reflecting blinds, and flooring, were installed throughout. The toilets were also extended and refurbished.
External works involved some heritage restoration to the entrance area, such as rendering to the soffit and spraying to the entrance doors, as well as some minor repairs to the hard landscaping.
Professor David Cardwell, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Strategy and Planning, University of Cambridge
“I am extremely gratified by how well this project has succeeded. By adopting a streamlined approach to appointing a contractor and giving them autonomy to act quickly, when necessary, we are able to complete the project to an extremely tight deadline, despite unexpected challenges along the way, and still bring it in under budget. That is a testimony to the hard work and ingenuity of everyone involved.”
Core Team
Dan Changer
Board Director
After completing a BArch (Hons) Architecture at the University of Cambridge, Dan began his career in architecture in London. During his later Part 3 studies, he worked as an Architect for a London-based architecture firm, contributing to a project at Christ Lane in Cambridge with SDC as the Principle Contractor.
In 2010, Dan became the first Architect employed directly by SDC. Dan emersed himself in the interface between consultant and subcontract design management to ensure efficient design delivery, which became a central part of his role.
One of his early projects was at Moulton College, where he worked as a Design Manager on a sports rehabilitation centre, learning to balance design considerations with practical implementation. This led to further schemes, such as his involvement in the University of Cambridge Sports Centre project which had a complicated roof geometry, necessitating close collaboration with consultants and specialist subcontractor design. It was during this time that Dan formed close partnerships with other members of the SDC team that proved valuable for managing complex projects and delivering results under pressure.
Dan’s work with the University of Cambridge became a defining aspect of his career, with notable projects such as the Maxwell Centre and Judge Business School amongst many others. His background as a Cambridge alumnus has helped foster strong relationships, ensuring that the University receive projects that meet its expectations for quality and functionality.
Known for his problem-solving abilities, Dan frequently tackles architecturally challenging projects. Responsible for the Design department within the company, his approach focuses on planning, collaboration, and ensuring that designs align with the client’s vision. He values the supportive and fair culture at SDC, which has helped cultivate long-term staff loyalty. For Dan, the most rewarding part of his work is seeing the spaces he helps create put to good use and appreciated by clients.
Luke Norris
Contracts Manager
Simon Morrall
Commercial Manager
Simon is an Estimating Manager at SDC with over 20 years of experience. As an integral member of the site strategy team, his duties and responsibilities include managing the estimating department and preparing estimates and cost planning during the pre-construction and tender phases. For the past decade, he has worked on projects for Trinity College at the Cambridge Science Park, focusing on Science & Technology facilities and complex laboratory refurbishments.
Chris Beer
Design Manager
David Smeaton
M&E Manager
Tim Strickland
Project Liasion Manager
Matt Wells
Planning Manager
