University of the Arts London (UAL), Southwark

Scope of works

• Internal strip-out and selective demolition
• Structural alterations and building reconfiguration
• Reinforced concrete slab installation
• Structural steel installation
• Formation of external Lift Shaft
• Landscaping, paving and creation of ramps
• Mechanical & electrical installations
• Internal fit-out and finishes
• Site clearance and external works

Structural reconfiguration and selective demolition within a live London school

R.E.B Group Limited was appointed to deliver a phased refurbishment and internal reconfiguration at UAL (University of Arts London). Operating within a live educational environment, the project required careful sequencing, strict health and safety controls, and experienced demolition contractors capable of delivering controlled demolition and strip out services without disruption to daily operations.

As an experienced building demolition company in London, our works began with a comprehensive internal strip-out and selective demolition package. This included the removal of redundant structural elements, controlled demolition of internal partitions, and preparation for major structural alterations including a new lift with new openings at 3 levels of the building

Controlled demolition & structural alterations

The scheme required elements of structural demolition to enable the new open-plan layout. Working as a licensed and fully compliant contractor, our team carried out:

• Selective demolition of internal structural constraints
• Brickwork and Concrete cutting and removal to form new openings
• Reinforced concrete slab installation to revised levels
• Installation of structural steel supports

All demolition and site clearance works were carefully managed to maintain structural integrity and ensure a safe working environment within the operational university setting.

Lift Shaft Formation

The area that the new lift was going in was fully cleared with paving removed for re use where possible. Reinforced piles were then drilled into the ground to a depth of circa 10mtrs deep. The area was then excavated by machine and hand, and the spoil was removed from site. The reinforced concrete slab was then formed complete with starter bars for the formation of the lift base. The timber structure was then formed by our specialist structural carpenter for the lift base/lift pit and the concrete was poured

Site clearance & external works

As part of the overall demolition services package, external works included site clearance, access improvements and coordination with boundary interfaces to enhance safety and usability across the site.

Our integrated approach, combining demolition and site clearance in London with structural alteration expertise, ensured programme efficiency and quality control throughout.

Outcome

The UAL project demonstrates R.E.B Group Limited’s capability as a trusted specialist contractor in London, delivering various services, including structural alterations landscaping, paving complete with pedestrian metal strips, brick/blockwork, formation of a lift shaft and refurbishment within sensitive live environments.

By combining various elements of works, we successfully transformed the existing facility into a structure with great accessibility via a newly formed passenger lift and an access ramp this has kept the areas open while sympathetically maintaining the character of this Grade II listed building, adaptable and future-focused learning environment.

Project team

• Main Contractor: Quinn London supported by R.E.B Group Limited
• Client: UAL (University of Arts London)