Office Conversion to 20 Residential Flats

Office Conversion to 20 Residential Flats

We have recently completed a 7/8 month long residential job in fitting out a flat conversion in Aldershot. The entire block had been converted into 20 flats, for these we had to complete an electrical system for it. The offices were converted into a combination of studio, 1 bed and 2 bed flats, they have been finished to a high specification and have now been sold.

The commercial building that was originally bought was purchased with the intention of making a profit through the resale, this meant there was a lot weighing on ensuring all alterations and work done to the flats was low cost. This meant every installation we did had to be well thought out and efficient in order to save as much money as possible. With this in mind, sensor emergency bulkheads were fitted in the communal corridors and stairways to save electricity because it ensures the lights only turn on when they sense movement.

We also used maintained emergency lights instead of installing separate non-maintained lights in the ceilings; this saved on the cost of having to install separate lights, and it is also more aesthetically pleasing because there will be less fixtures on the ceilings. Feature mini spots were installed in the bathrooms to help with aesthetics and to highlight the sinks and showers. In a similar way, in the show flats to maximize visual lighting effects, we installed LED strips.

It is essential to get the right balance between appearance and expenditure, because there can be a big risk of saving money but being left with a job that’s finished to a low standard.

Throughout the flats, we used downlights and pendants because these are modern, inexpensive and can be personalised for any new owners making the flats their own. For all sockets and switches, Varilight was used because they look good, they are cost effective and are reliable.

As well as the lighting for the 20 flats, we also provided and installed the TV aerials, sky dish and telephone systems too. Appliances in the kitchen were on a 12 gang grid plate; each appliance has its own etched switch with neon light indictors. The appliance names are etched on for convenience and it also gives an up to date, modern feel.

The refit was a journey; we enjoyed being a part of it and seeing the flats change and develop into the high spec properties they are now! As a result, when the flats joined the property market, they were snapped up!