The existing finishes and fabric were stripped back to the bare structure of the building thus facilitating much needed alterations to improve access routes and ceiling heights. Unfortunately, the extensive refurbishment works unveiled several key structural issues within the building; not least a 12ft high medieval wall which was found to be extremely precarious / vulnerable due to a distinct lack of support. To eliminate the initial problem, a framework of structural steelwork was introduced. However, the additional steels severely intruded on the proposed location for the main kitchen supply and extract ductwork with significant repercussions in terms of routing the ductwork through the building to roof level. It is a credit to the Design Team, the Contractor and the patience of the Client, that by working closely and in full consultation a viable solution was derived without serious cost implications or delays to the programme.

Of major consideration was the Grade 1 listed status of the building and the conditions imposed to negate all adverse elements of the M&E services in terms of the visual impact that any equipment / plant would have on the College. In particular the close proximity of the mechanical supply air handling unit / main kitchen extract fan to the Bursar’s private quarters and the neighbouring Department of History. The issues of noise and odour, both much prevalent in a commercial grade kitchen, were negated by specifying appropriate and good quality equipment.

Due to the limited ceiling height within the main cooking area, the use of conventional supply / extract induction hoods was deemed to be impracticable and preference subsequently given to a fully-ventilated ceiling arrangement complete with banks of extract grilles/filters, the later operating in conjunction with U V ozone systems designed to eliminate grease carry-over into the ductwork.

Extent of Mechanical Services:

• Incoming utilities – gas and water
• Domestic hot and cold-water services
• Mechanical supply and extract ventilation – including ventilated ceiling arrangement
• Specialist kitchen supplies – including U V ozone filtration, brine exchange water softener, etc
• Automatic Control Systems

Extent of Electrical Services:

• Incoming utilities – electrical, I T data
• H V electrical sub-station / transformer
• General lighting and emergency lighting
• Electrical small power
• Door entry, CCTV and security systems
• Fire suppressant systems to ventilated ceiling
• Fire alarm installation