Full Turn-Key Design Technology Lab for Lichfield Cathedral School
Having previously worked with Lichfield Cathedral School on various furniture projects, including science labs and a music technology space, Witley Jones Furniture was approached in Spring 2024 to deliver a full turn-key Design Technology room. This was part of the school’s ongoing expansion, following the acquisition of a new building previously used as office space.
Witley Jones took on the role of Principal Contractor, leading the project from concept to completion. Our team managed the design, specification, and installation in collaboration with trusted partners HME Technology and our dedicated building contractors. Through a carefully structured project plan, we ensured seamless execution, allowing the internal school team to focus on other ongoing capital expenditure projects during a busy summer holiday.
Comprehensive Project Management & Execution
From the outset, Dave Manser worked closely with Jon Mayne, Operations Co-Ordinator, and the Head of DT at Lichfield Cathedral to develop a precise project timeline. Following the approval of the room layout, equipment, and furniture specifications, we took full responsibility for the project at the start of the summer holidays. Fortunately, the building became available ahead of schedule, enabling us to commence work as soon as the school term ended.
A significant logistical challenge was presented by the DT room’s location on the second floor. Careful planning was required to facilitate the movement and installation of heavy equipment and materials. We not only considered the intended use of the equipment but also the handling and positioning during installation, ensuring efficiency and safety at every step.
Innovative Design focused on Functionality
To create a space that meets the demands of a modern DT room, we specified robust hardwood worktops. The worktops and fixed perimeter benches were selected for their enhanced lifespan, natural wear characteristics, and ease of maintenance.
Integrated DT equipment was supplied, installed and commissioned in collaboration with HME Technology, ensuring optimal set-out heights and alignment with safety standards. This also saw us install different height work surfaces to accommodate a variety of equipment and tooling.
As well as the main DT space, we also fitted out a CAD / DAM area, office space for staff, and a heavy-duty storage space with racking and shelving.
The Advantage of a Trusted Principal Contractor
Lichfield Cathedral School was managing multiple capital expenditure projects at the time, including the new music technology space, which Witley Jones had also furnished. By entrusting us with the complete management and coordination of the DT lab project, the school was able to free up internal resources and focus on other priorities.
Our collaborative approach brought together expertise from multiple trades into a single package, streamlining resource utilisation and ensuring a high-quality outcome. The combination of clear communication, innovative design, and careful logistical planning allowed us to deliver a state-of-the-art DT facility on time and within budget.
Through our partnership with Lichfield Cathedral School, Witley Jones Furniture has once again demonstrated our capability to provide full turn-key solutions that enhance learning environments and support educational excellence.
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