Situated on Portsmouth Road, a historic route connecting London and Portsmouth since the 18th century, this site has undergone a remarkable transformation. Previously home to two breweries and a soft drinks manufacturer, the premises were later occupied by Guildford Glass and Metal Works before becoming derelict after the Second World War. Today, the redevelopment has revitalised the area, delivering 301 purpose-built co-living apartments and turning the former industrial site into a vibrant residential community.

Project Details

Project ff&e were appointed by C-Fields Construction to design, supply and install fitted furniture and kitchens across all accommodation types within the scheme.

The project included:

• 52 en-suite cluster bedrooms featuring beds, desks and integrated storage

• 249 studio apartments, each fitted with a private kitchen and dining facilities

• 13 shared cluster kitchens designed to support open-plan cooking, dining and social spaces

Project ff&e collaborated closely with the interior designers at James Alexander Design to ensure furniture selections and finishes complemented the scheme’s carefully curated interior concept.

Delivery and Installation

The scheme was delivered on site over a 20-week programme, with Project ff&e completing each block sequentially at a rate of up to 25 rooms per week, including studios, bedrooms and cluster kitchens.

The project was overseen by a Senior Contracts Manager, supported by project assistants, a site manager, supervisors and team leaders to maintain programme coordination and quality control.

A core team of six directly employed staff remained on site throughout the programme, with additional labour introduced during peak stages. Specialist contractors carried out installation works, with fitter numbers increased during first and second fix phases and additional resources allocated for snagging and specialist works.

Towards the final stages of the programme, operations were successfully expanded to work across all four blocks simultaneously, ensuring the development was completed and handed over on schedule.

Adapting to Programme Changes

With the introduction of a revised construction sequence shortly before work began, Project ff&e were required to rapidly adjust logistics and coordinate closely with both the supply chain and site teams to ensure the correct products were delivered in line with the updated programme.

We also revised our load-out and distribution strategy to accommodate restrictions in access via the site hoist, ensuring materials could still be safely delivered to the relevant areas without impacting progress.

Social Impact

Throughout the project, Project ff&e prioritised the use of local labour and maintained a diverse workforce, supporting the local economy while contributing to an inclusive working environment.

Through careful coordination, flexible planning and close collaboration with the wider project team, Project ff&e successfully delivered furniture and kitchen installations across all 301 accommodation units, supporting the transformation of the historic site into a modern co-living community.

Client: Tiger Developments

Main Contractor: C-Field Construction

Interiors: James Alexander Design

Photography: Rob Parrish