CASE STUDY | ST ALBANS

Refurbishing a LiveCommercial Building

Verulam Point · St Albans

Area: 150,000 sq ft
Value: £7,000,000
Duration: 18 months
Scope: CAT A & CAT B

The Brief

Verulam Point is a prominent commercial office building adjacent to St Albans City railway station. Originally constructed in the early 1990s, the building required comprehensive refurbishment to address ageing infrastructure, compliance requirements, and evolving occupier expectations.

The client's objectives were to significantly improve EPC performance, modernise the arrival experience, and create flexible, lettable floorplates capable of supporting multiple tenants. All works were to be delivered within a live environment, with the building remaining partially occupied throughout.

The brief called for a long-term, investment-led refurbishment that would future-proof the asset, enhance sustainability credentials and strengthen its commercial performance in a competitive office market.

The Solution

Engaged early, we developed a phased and commercially robust delivery strategy informed by detailed surveys and technical investigations. A full mechanical and electrical replacement transitioned the building from centralised systems to flexible, floor-by-floor zoning, enabling subdivision and improved tenant control. Phased installation and commissioning ensured uninterrupted building operations.

Structural works included reconfiguration of four parking levels, removal of escalators, extension of Level 1 and construction of a new glazed front extension.

The reception and atrium were comprehensively upgraded to create a refined arrival experience, incorporating bespoke joinery, feature lighting, and end-of-trip facilities formed from reclaimed space. Careful sequencing, logistics planning and stakeholder coordination enabled complex works to progress safely within an occupied building.

The Results