Caedmon Hall
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Location: Leeds
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Sector: Education, Heritage
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Service: Regional Building
Tilbury Douglas successfully completed the £10m refurbishment of the Grade II listed Caedmon Hall at Leeds Beckett University, a project that required balancing heritage preservation with modern functionality.
Originally built in the early 20th century, Caedmon Hall was last upgraded in 2004, also by Tilbury Douglas. The latest refurbishment aimed to create a state-of-the-art environment for the relocation of the School of Education while addressing energy efficiency, comfort, and inclusivity.
The project involved both internal upgrades and external repairs.
Externally roof slates, flashing, timber soffits and facias, downpipes, and brickwork were carefully restored. Sensitive repairs were made to 192 timber sash windows to improve energy efficiency.
The interior underwent significant upgrades to create specialist educational spaces. Mechanical and electrical systems were completely replaced, incorporating sustainable technologies including air source heat pumps.
Heritage restoration was a key component, including the repair of sash windows, masonry, and leadwork, ensuring the building’s historical integrity was maintained.
At a glance...
£10.5m
Project value
August 2024
Completion date
Leeds Beckett University
Client
Challenges and solutions
Heritage sensitivity: Working on a Grade II listed building presented challenges in preserving its historical features while meeting modern requirements. The team carefully restored key elements including sash windows and masonry to ensure compliance with heritage standards.
Sustainability: The integration of modern energy-efficient technologies in a historic building was another challenge. By incorporating air source heat pumps, the project reduced energy consumption while maintaining the building’s aesthetic and structural integrity.
The refurbishment of Caedmon Hall was completed ready for the new academic year with no accidents. Leeds Beckett University now has a modern, energy-efficient space that preserves the hall’s historical value while providing a high-quality learning environment for the School of Education.
Added value
The project achieved an SKA Gold accreditation for sustainability, highlighting its environmentally responsible design and fit-out. This certification underscores Tilbury Douglas’ commitment to sustainability through efficient energy use and the integration of modern technologies in heritage buildings.
Tilbury Douglas placed significant emphasis on social value, delivering 16 school and college workshops, 10 work experience placements, 370 apprentice weeks, and creating four new jobs.
An additional £10,000 was contributed to local community groups via the YOR4Good Fund, reinforcing the Tilbury Douglas’ commitment to making a positive impact in the communities it serves.
Our partners
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Project Manager & Multi-Disciplinary Consultant: Pick Everard
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Cost Manager: Mace