INDUSTRY INSIGHTS MARCH 2026: Case study, Internal Refurbishment & LED Upgrade at the University of Portsmouth

From water damage to a fully refreshed, energy-efficient interior, SEE Services recently completed an internal refurbishment and LED lighting upgrade at the University of Portsmouth’s Rosalind Franklin Halls of Residence. In this article, we explore how the project was delivered over five phases and how a coordinated, multi-discipline approach achieved high-quality results in student accommodation.

Client Overview

The University of Portsmouth is a top three modern university for research power and one of the UK’s largest higher education institutions, with approximately 28,280 students enrolled across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Ongoing investment in its estate supports improved student experience, safety, and sustainability.

Project Overview

SEE Services was appointed to deliver a ground floor refurbishment at Rosalind Franklin Halls following water damage caused by a roof leak. The project formed part of a wider programme to enhance accommodation quality, compliance, and energy efficiency.

The refurbishment covered approximately 1,000 sq ft and was delivered over 45 days, across five phased stages. The building was closed for the duration of the works, allowing the programme to be completed efficiently and safely.

The refurbishment included a full range of internal and electrical upgrades:

• Replacement of ceiling tiles and ceiling grid systems

• Demolition of an existing meeting room

• Installation of 146 x 600x600 LED luminaires

• Full redecoration of walls, woodwork, and internal finishes

• Flooring replacement, including floor reskimming

• Complete replacement of washroom facilities

SEE Services managed the project from initial coordination through to final handover, working to a client-defined specification while providing practical design, compliance, and installation expertise. Delivery was overseen by a dedicated Project Manager and completed by a multi-skilled team including interior fit-out specialists, decorators, flooring technicians, and electrical engineers.

Challenges & Solutions

A number of challenges were identified and successfully managed during the project.

Furniture ManagementAlthough the building was closed for the duration of the works, all furniture remained on site. SEE Services carefully protected and repositioned furniture as required, enabling safe access for works while avoiding damage or disruption to the programme.

Safety and Compliance

During delivery, SEE identified that existing ceiling plenum boxes had been incorrectly installed and were supported by a single wire fixed to the old ceiling grid. These installations were upgraded to DW/144 standards, with multiple fixings introduced and all load removed from the ceiling grid, significantly improving safety and compliance.

Washroom improvementSEE also proposed an improved washroom design and specification, enhancing durability, usability, and ease of maintenance. This solution has since been adopted by the University of Portsmouth as a standard template for future refurbishment projects, adding long-term value beyond this scheme.

The Result

The completed refurbishment has significantly improved the quality, safety, and energy efficiency of the Rosalind Franklin Halls of Residence. New LED lighting provides improved illumination and reduced energy consumption, while refreshed interiors and upgraded washrooms deliver a brighter, more modern environment for students.

BEFORE

AFTER