STUDENT ACCOMMODATION
KIER CONSTRUCTION
Brief
Kier Construction Eastern and Future Generation secured a £13.85m deal to build new student accommodation in Colchester, Essex. Hythe Mills included 223 student bedrooms and communal areas in a building of part six, seven and eight storeys. Both companies recognised that there was a demand for high quality student accommodation, enhancing the student experience. They required blinds in the bedrooms that provided light control. In the gym, an option to darken the room while withstanding heavy use was needed. Our strong working history with Kier gave us the opportunity to work with Future Generation on this flagship project.
Delivery
Using our experience of providing shading solutions in student accommodation we were able to meet the given requirements. In the bedrooms we installed Linea 311 rollers which provide light stability and can withstand frequent use. The addition of a white PPC fascia reduced light ingress over the top of the blind. In the gym we installed framed zip blackout rollers. The use of an integral zip allows the blinds to securely fasten to the channels, not only providing a more complete blackout but also keeping the blind protected from damage caused by heavy use and any contact from equipment.
Results
The installation was complete within the set timescales allowing Future generation to open Hythe Mills as scheduled in September 2019. They had delivered on their aim for high quality, providing state of the art accommodation and enabling change in the way students live and interact together. The blinds completed this clean and contemporary finish while ensuring the students comfort and lifestyle demands were catered to.
Fresco Solar Shading delivered on every aspect required. Working alongside Henry Wadsworth, Kier Project Manager, Fresco ensured constant communication throughout their time on the project and created a positive working relationship. The team of installers were skilled, professional and fitted a quality product. They have worked with Future Generation and Kier Eastern in sharing the same vision for high quality and design led student accommodation.
Luke Engmann – Development Director, Future Generation