The Brewery - Ground and First Floor Office and Reception Refurbishment
- Location - Cheltenham
- Client - NFU Mutual
Crestel Projects is proud to present the successful refurbishment of the ground and first-floor reception and office accommodation at The Brewery, Cheltenham.
Formerly occupied as NHS premises, the space has been comprehensively transformed into a bright, contemporary workplace that fully realises the architect’s design intent while meeting the practical needs of modern office occupiers. Delivered over a carefully controlled nine-week programme, the project demonstrates Crestel’s expertise in delivering high-quality CAT A+ refurbishments within live, mixed-use environments.
1. Project Overview
The brief was to reimagine a dated office interior and arrival experience into a modern, flexible and commercially attractive workspace. This involved a full internal strip-out, upgrades to building services, and a coordinated package of finishes to elevate both functionality and visual appeal.
Working in close collaboration with the client, contract administrator and architect, the project was delivered safely, efficiently and on programme, with particular attention given to working within an occupied retail and leisure estate.
2. Scope of Works
The refurbishment works comprised a full CAT A+ upgrade and included:
- Comprehensive strip-out of existing finishes, partitions and redundant services
- Refurbishment of the ground-floor reception to create a welcoming arrival space
- Reconfiguration and upgrade of first-floor office accommodation
- Installation of new floor, wall and ceiling finishes throughout
- Feature timber slat walls and enhanced internal joinery
- New fully fitted kitchenette and complete refurbishment of WC facilities
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Mechanical and electrical upgrades, including:
- New and adapted LED lighting systems
- Small power and structured data systems
- Alterations and extensions to the existing HVAC system - Fire safety upgrades, testing and commissioning of all services
- Final decoration, builders’ clean and handover documentation
3. Design and Finishes
A contemporary yet durable finishes strategy was adopted across the scheme. Key features included:
- High-quality LVT, vinyl and carpet tile flooring, zoned by function
- Acoustic timber slat feature walls to reception and breakout areas
- MF plasterboard ceilings alongside refurbished suspended ceiling systems
- Energy-efficient LED lighting with PIR and emergency provisions
- Modern sanitaryware, IPS systems and tiled wall finishes to WC areas
- A fully fitted kitchenette with integrated appliances
Together, these elements deliver a professional, welcoming environment aligned with current workplace expectations.
4. Key Challenges and Solutions
01.
Live Environment and Estate Constraints
The Brewery is a busy, mixed-use retail and leisure destination with continuous public access.
Solution: Careful logistics planning, strict site segregation, and close liaison with estate management ensured works were carried out safely without disruption to neighbouring occupiers or the public.
02.
Programme Certainty
The project required delivery within a fixed nine-week programme to meet client occupation objectives.
Solution: Detailed pre-construction planning, coordinated design development and proactive management of trades and materials allowed the programme to be maintained without compromise to quality.
03.
Integration of Existing Services
Adapting and extending the existing HVAC and electrical systems within a refurbished layout presented coordination challenges.
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Solution: Early validation of existing services, combined with contractor-designed M&E solutions, ensured seamless integration and efficient commissioning.
5. Sustainability and Compliance
Sustainability and regulatory compliance were integral to the project delivery:
- Reuse and adaptation of existing building fabric and services where feasible, reducing waste
- Installation of energy-efficient LED lighting with PIR controls to minimise operational energy use
- Upgraded HVAC systems to improve efficiency and occupant comfort
- Full compliance with CDM 2015, Building Regulations and Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations
- Comprehensive testing, commissioning and handover documentation provided at completion
6. Project Information
- Project: Unit 17, The Brewery, Cheltenham
- Sector: Commercial Office
- Works Type: CAT A+ Office & Reception Refurbishment
- Client: NFU Mutual
- Contract Administrator: PSK Building Surveyors
- Architect: Roberts Limbrick
- Principal Contractor: Crestel Projects Ltd
- Contract Type: JCT Minor Works with Contractor’s Design
- Programme Duration: 9 weeks
- Status: Completed
7. The Result
The completed refurbishment delivers a high-quality, contemporary workplace that has fully revitalised the existing building. From the upgraded reception experience to the flexible office accommodation above, the scheme demonstrates how considered design, robust planning, and disciplined delivery can transform underutilised space into a commercially attractive asset.