• Manor Lodge School, Radlett, New Nursery Extension

    Darke & Taylor were proud to deliver the full electrical package for a new extension at Manor Lodge School, a unique, independent primary school in Hertfordshire for children aged 4–11. The project linked the existing school building with the nursery, enhancing the learning environment for Reception year pupils.

    Hero ManorLodgeNursery

Project challenges

INTEGRATION WITH EXISTING SYSTEMS

The project required seamless integration with existing fire alarm and security systems within the live school building.

Solution: We engaged closely with the client and incumbent contractors to align with the current infrastructure and ensure system continuity.

LIVE SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT

Large portions of the works were undertaken within live, operational school areas.

Solution: Our team worked flexibly around school schedules, carefully programming works outside of teaching hours to ensure minimal disruption.

EVOLVING DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

D&T also worked on the Main Building reception area. This area was in constant use, with staff and students and other tradespeople, and hence required extremely careful planning and coordination.

Solution: Our team collaborated closely with the architect and design team to create a practical layout for cable routes and circuitry that remained sympathetic to the building’s design.

PROGRAMME AND PROCUREMENT CONSTRAINTS

Works were required to be completed within a tight 10-week schedule to meet term start dates.

Solution: Close coordination between our office and site teams ensured streamlined procurement, proactive planning, and clear communication with other subcontractors to maintain programme deadlines.

Gallery

“Our team collaborated closely with the architect and design team to create a practical layout for cable routes and circuitry that remained sympathetic to the building’s design.”

Technical overview

As part of the phase 2 refurbishment at Manor Lodge School, Darke & Taylor delivered a full electrical installation across the new Reception classrooms, circulation space, and refurbished staffroom.
Works included new LV distribution, sub-distribution, small power, energy-efficient lighting and emergency lighting. A fully integrated fire alarm system, structured cabling for IT and telecoms, and comprehensive security systems including access control and intruder alarm were also installed. External lighting was added to enhance the new rear extension.

Project details

ARCHITECTIID Architects
MAIN CONTRACTORLife Build
PROJECT DURATION10 Weeks
MEP CONSULTANTDarke & Taylor

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