Arcas Building Solutions is proud to be leading the way in university construction across the North East, with our latest major refurbishment project at Northumbria University’s Nano Labs. This ambitious scheme is designed to enhance the University’s research infrastructure, upgrading laboratory facilities and creating an environment that supports cutting-edge scientific discovery.

Transforming Facilities Through University Refurbishment

Our works at the Nano Labs focus on both external and internal improvements to Block E, ensuring the facilities meet the highest technical standards. External works include:

  • Construction of a new staircase to provide safe rooftop access
  • Installation of a new rooftop plant, with enclosures, steelworks, and supporting structures
  • Roof modifications and selective demolition to make space for new equipment
  • Specialist crane and lift operations for construction materials and installations

Internally, the project involves structural modifications, concrete slab repairs, and system upgrades across mechanical, electrical, and drainage services. We are also installing partitions, fire-rated glazing, specialist lab fittings, flooring, and signage to deliver a state-of-the-art research facility.

This university refurbishment reinforces Northumbria University’s commitment to providing first-class spaces for both students and researchers.

Progressing University Construction at Nano Labs

As a trusted North East contractor, Arcas Building Solutions has overseen significant progress on-site in recent months. Milestones include:

  • Issuing of the Water Management Plan to the client
  • Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) 1st fix works virtually complete, with services routed in line with programme and design
  • Installation of roof enclosures and membranes, ensuring the building is fully weathertight
  • Mechanical plant installation on the new roof progressing well
  • Completion of steelwork design for Stair 3, critical to the building’s vertical circulation strategy
  • Ongoing installation of specialist gas pipework and fire-stopping measures to support the laboratory’s functionality and safety

These achievements mark an exciting stage in the development, as the project begins to take shape both inside and out.

Building for the Future

Our work at Northumbria University Nano Labs reflects the very best of university construction in the region: highly technical, collaborative, and rooted in the delivery of long-term value for the client. This is a project that not only strengthens the University’s research capabilities but also demonstrates the expertise and dedication of our team here at Arcas.

We are proud to continue playing a role in shaping world-class academic environments across the North East, supporting the region’s reputation for innovation, learning, and excellence.