Somerville College, Oxford University

This project involved the replacement of old, cracked paving at one of Oxford University’s prestigious colleges.

This former ladies-only college boasts alumni such as politicians Margaret Thatcher, Indira Nehru Ghandi and cancer research scientist Dorothy Hodgkin.

The existing paving was taken up by the contractor and the waterproofing layer of the courtyard area overlaid with a new membrane. The paving was replaced with natural sawn sandstone slabs, in keeping with the surrounding historic buildings. Adjustable supports were used to lift the sandstone slabs off the surface of the courtyard area to avoid any risk of damage. It also allowed free drainage into the outlets without any risk of standing water causing a slip hazard.

Edges, corners and details were always supported due the versatility of base plates and headpieces available from Wallbarn.

The operatives were able to install the flags very quickly as they could adjust the heights as they went along.

The paving was installed across the area and the final finish delighted both contractor, university and students alike.