Ariel House – Conversion of outbuildings

Location: UCL Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL), Dorking Surrey

Scope of project

The project involved the conversion of two existing outbuildings located on the grounds of Ariel House at the Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL) facility in Dorking, Surrey. The outbuildings are situated on an elevated terrace adjacent to Ariel House, which serves as Student accommodation for the Department of Space and Climate Physics at University College London (UCL).

The project was to convert unused outbuildings into usable spaces to help alleviate pressures on space within the Campus at MSSL. Specifically, the spaces were converted into a wellbeing areas for staff and students.

Works included:

  • Preliminary enabling works including removal of vegetation and other redundant items.
  • Erection of scaffolding to provide safe working access.
  • External refurbishment and structural repairs to the brickwork elevations, stonework features, rendered elements, balustrade capping stones and steps.
  • Careful overhaul of the existing timber doors including repairs, easing, refitting and redecorating. New ironmongery was installed throughout.
  • Internal structural repairs, refurbishment and redecoration including new insulated walls, plasterboard ceilings, Tea point, floor finishes and mechanical/electrical services.
  • Installation of new timber-framed double glazed French door sets.
  • Construction of new warm flat roof assemblies over both outbuildings.
  • Comprehensive M&E works including new water and drainage installation, power distribution boards, radiators, LED lighting, monitored emergency lighting, small power, fibre data installation, fire alarm, extractor fans and fittings.
  • External works also including repointing and cleaning of the paved terrace and steps.

The project successfully increased internal space for the client and upgraded facilities whilst retaining the external appearance in keeping with the surroundings. Staff and students now benefit from dedicated wellbeing areas, which offers new, serene spaces for their use.