College refreshes rooms and facilities

A North East university campus has upgraded its student accommodation ahead of the new term.

Durham University’s Trevelyan College has completed a £4.7 million refurbishment, transforming three accommodation blocks into contemporary, energy-efficient living spaces for nearly 100 students. 

The project involved the renovation of 86 bedrooms, en suites, lounge areas, an IT suite and 13 shared kitchen and dining areas, with seven twin rooms reconfigured into single occupancy.

As part of the refurbishment, original 1960s interiors were stripped and replaced with modern furniture, finishes and fixings, while corridors were upgraded with new ceilings, lighting and carpeting to improve circulation and enhance the college’s signature under-one-roof layout.

Newcastle-based GSSArchitecture acted as lead consultant, architect and principal designer, overseeing works from December last year, which were carried out by Robertson Construction North East.

Alex Proctor, project partner at GSSArchitecture, said: “Our well-established relationship with both Durham University and main contractor Robertson has been key to the successful delivery of this project.

“Together, we’ve created a modern and comfortable living environment that reflects Trevelyan College’s values and supports student wellbeing.”

Neil Kennedy, regional managing director at Robertson Construction North East, added: “It is great to be back on campus at Durham to deliver improved spaces that will both reduce running costs for the University and enhance student experience. 

“We worked closely with project partners and the University to mitigate disturbance to campus life and keep students informed every step of the way as we delivered this high-quality refurbishment.

“Having worked with all five North East universities, we recognise the fundamental role these institutions play in shaping the future, and we take immense pride in supporting their own unique estate visions.”

The refurbishment also focused on sustainability, with all windows and doors replaced, thermal improvements added to the building fabric and extra insulation installed. 

These measures are expected to reduce running costs while supporting Durham University’s wider environmental goals.

Professor Adekunle Adeyeye, principal of Trevelyan College, Durham University, added: “This recent refurbishment project has been transformational for Trevelyan College and is already having significant positive impacts on our student experience. 

“We are delighted with the modernisation and improvements to our accommodation and communal facilities.  

“This major project will benefit current and future generations of students and will enhance various aspects of college life.”

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