Chemistry Labs refurbishment – University of Durham
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Summary
A complex suite of services upgrades for advanced research and teaching spaces
Robertson delivered a multi-million-pound refurbishment of Durham University’s Chemistry building, upgrading 12 research laboratories, write-up rooms, and supporting facilities to meet cutting-edge standards while enhancing infrastructure for reduced long-term maintenance.
Our North East construction team led the main works, with our specialist in-house engineering services team delivering full mechanical and electrical installations.
12 labs
upgraded
Complex M&E upgrades to create high-spec chemistry labs
Our expert engineering services team delivered comprehensive mechanical and electrical upgrades tailored to the demands of a high-specification chemistry lab environment.
Key aspects of the works comprised advanced ventilation systems (fume extraction, make-up air), air conditioning, specialist gas supplies, refrigerant plumbing, wash-down facilities, and drainage — alongside new fume cupboards, heating, public health services, house vacuum, and integrated building management controls. Commissioning of the ventilation systems was critical to verify full compliance with safety and specification standards, ensuring optimal performance in this specialised chemistry lab environment.
Electrical works featured general and emergency lighting, CCTV, tailored lab alarm systems, a building-wide emergency lighting upgrade, and energy-efficient LED conversions in teaching spaces.
Additional enhancements encompassed a WRAS Category 5 water distribution system, improved hot water infrastructure, remedial works to services through fire compartmentation and ceilings, plus WC upgrades—ensuring operational resilience and future-proof compliance.
Phased works in a live environment – minimising disruption
Robertson meticulously planned and phased the works to minimise disruption while the chemistry facilities remained operational for staff and student teaching and research.
A high-precision 3D digital model of the entire chemistry block—created via laser scanning and commissioned by Robertson—enabled detailed coordination, ensuring site delivery matched design intent with exceptional quality and accuracy.
The project completed successfully in summer 2025, ready for the 2025-26 academic term.
Completion images
Project team
Main contractor Robertson Construction North East
Architect: Space Architects
M&E Robertson Engineering Services
Client’s project manager Gardiner & Theobald
