UCL room refresh campaign: refreshed, refurbished, refocused

In October 2013, UCL Estates launched its room refresh campaign.

The campaign aims to address the gap between the quality of UCL's academic reputation and the quality of teaching and learning spaces. Room Refresh is looking to enhance the student experience, upgrade accommodation and improve space management.

The 'quick wins' phase of the campaign took place outside of normal teaching hours in order to complete refurbishment with minimum disruption throughout the autumn term. UCL Estates are now taking advantage of the Easter period to undertake more extensive work.

Room Refresh has engaged positively with UCL's academic community and professional services. This approach has helped ensure that the program best supports the university's academic mission.

The campaign has generated a number of positive changes. UCL Estates have spoken with academic departments to establish how to adapt spaces to a range of teaching styles. The booking process has been tailored to meet the expectations of staff and students, ensuring that room format and equipment fit varying academic needs.

A detailed room-by-room survey has incorporated feedback gained from the UCL community. This has encouraged future planning in order to anticipate a growth in student numbers and courses.  

So far, the Room Refresh Campaign has been a success and continues to focus on long-term improvement. UCL Estates aim to ensure that the changes the initiative has brought to UCL become part of a permanent approach to managing teaching spaces.

If you have any thoughts on how we can improve our centrally bookable spaces please let us know at room-refresh@ucl.ac.uk

Gary Pearson, UCL Estates