The English Experience

A substantial renovation project involving the conversion and refurbishment of an historic building in a conservation area. Used as office space for many years by Savills Estate Agents, the new owner wanted to be able to provide educational facilities for a School of English.

Located in the heart of Norwich the Victorian building contained many original features which were all retained and, in some cases, restored. The brief called for eight classrooms with supporting common room, new toilet facilities, offices, administrative accommodation and a new entrance lobby.

The conversion posed interesting problems as many of the historical features did not comply with current building regulation legislation nor the special consideration of safe passage of children and young adult students through the building.

One such issue was the staircase serving the three floors of the main building which had a low handrail, no longer compliant with today’s Health & Safety regulations. This was resolved by fixing glass screens to the inner well of the staircase. Another difficulty was the need to install new fire doors and alarm systems without compromising the integrity of the historic nature of the building.

Work throughout has been executed to a high standard. Light, neutral colours brighten the walls and ceilings with the floors adopting the client’s company colours. The building has been given a new lease of life with classroom spaces that deliver a contemporary English experience for foreign students.