Fusion Classroom Design completed the refurbishment of three science laboratories at Heston Community School, delivering a complete overhaul of the existing teaching spaces and creating practical, durable environments designed around the requirements of modern science lessons.
The project was delivered in phases to ensure minimal disruption to the timetable and to maximise the school holidays. Following the successful completion of the first two laboratories, which took place in the 6-week summer holiday period, the school was happy with the results and commissioned Fusion to complete the third laboratory. The third lab was closed for the last week before the half term, with the main refurbishment works being executed during the 2-week October half term. The timeline was agreed ahead of time to ensure all staff were prepared for a one-week closure of the third lab, whilst also meaning that Fusion was able to successfully complete the complex works without unexpected delays, ready for the start of the new half term.
Bespoke science laboratory furniture
Each lab was developed around new bespoke furniture, completely designed by Fusion Classroom Design and manufactured by our long-term joinery partners.
The student benches were designed specifically around the requirements of the science curriculum and the way the laboratories would be used. Manufactured from MFC with durable Trespa worktops, the new furniture provides robust, practical work surfaces suitable for practical science lessons.
As part of the refurbishment, the services were completely reviewed and adjusted to suit the new furniture and layouts. New gas taps and double switched socket outlets (DSSOs) were incorporated into the student benches, ensuring students have access to the services required to undertake the practical activities expected within the laboratories.
The existing sinks within the student benches were removed. Following discussions with the school, it was agreed that student sinks were not required for the way the laboratories would be used, with a central teacher sink providing a more appropriate solution. This also allowed the available space to be used more effectively and created more functional student workstations.
All gas, electrical and water services were adjusted accordingly, with redundant services removed and made safe as part of the refurbishment.
Complete refurbishment and upgraded finishes
The laboratories were given a complete overhaul to coincide with the new furniture, including full redecoration and new safety vinyl flooring. For the third lab, the flooring works also involved the safe removal of existing asbestos floor tiles, which were also present in the adjoining hallway. The safety vinyl was continued into the circulation space to provide a safe and consistent finish throughout.
Bespoke double sink unit
The third laboratory was slightly larger than the other two, allowing for additional facilities to be incorporated into the design. A bespoke double sink unit was designed by Fusion specifically for the larger laboratory, incorporating some lockable storage which wasn’t possible in the smaller labs executed in the summer.
The unit incorporates two large fireclay laboratory sinks set into a Trespa worktop, with lockable cupboards below, providing a robust and practical solution suitable for the demands of science teaching and regular use.
The combination of bespoke furniture, durable Trespa surfaces and purpose-designed laboratory facilities ensures the refurbished spaces are built to withstand the demands of a busy school science department.
Delivered around the school timetable
The three labs were delivered in phases to minimise disruption to the school.
Two labs were completed during the summer holidays, with the third delivered during the October half term after the school had seen the finished results of the initial refurbishments. The phased approach allowed Heston Community School to continue using its existing science facilities while the works were carried out, while ensuring each laboratory received a complete refurbishment rather than a series of temporary improvements.
The completed laboratories provide the school with modern and durable teaching environments suited to the subject, with bespoke solutions specifically to the school’s requirements.
Looking to refurbish a school science laboratory?
Fusion Classroom Design specialises in the design, fit out or refurbishment of science laboratories, creating practical teaching environments tailored to each school’s requirements. Find out more about our science lab refurbishment services.
