Department Of Chemistry, UoC

Project Brief

The Department of Chemistry at the University of Cambridge undertook a refurbishment programme to enhance several key laboratory and support environments. The university required the full design, manufacture, and installation of high-specification fitted furniture tailored to the needs of research-intensive spaces. The brief prioritised long-term durability, seamless functionality, and a coordinated aesthetic across all areas.

A refined palette of Fjord Green, White, and Oak was selected to create a modern, clean and professional finish, while ensuring practicality in demanding laboratory conditions. The spaces required integrated storage, robust work surfaces, specialist service provision, and layout configurations suited to wet science, fabrication, write-up, and specialist research activity.

Location: Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge

Value: £80,000

Contractor: R G Carter

Benchmark FF&E Solutions was appointed to deliver a complete FF&E package across six laboratory zones, to support scientific activity at a high standard.

Implementation

The specification combined robust construction with flexible functionality across research spaces including the Eukaryotic Lab, Fabrication Rooms, Write-Up Spaces, Wet Labs, Specialist Bays, and the Bacterial Lab.

Key elements included:

  • Trespa TopLab BASE worktops with polished and bevelled exposed edges and precision service cut-outs
  • Steel H-frame and support rail benching systems with adjustable feet for strength and stability
  • Fixed and mobile storage units with integration for power, gas, data and water
  • Reagent shelving systems and tiered MFC shelving with ABS lipping and twin-slot supports
  • Epoxy resin laboratory sinks and a full range of specialist taps, including swan necks, Arboles fittings, eyewash stations and HTM64-compliant sanitaryware

Result

The project was completed to specification, within budget, and coordinated seamlessly with the contractor.

This included:

  • Hardwearing surfaces and clean lines created professional, high-performance environments.
  • Services and storage were built in discreetly to maintain clear, well-organised spaces.
  • A mix of fixed and mobile units allowed each room to function efficiently while remaining flexible for future needs.
  • Fjord Green, White, and Oak finishes provided visual continuity across all areas.
  • Each space, from wet labs to write-up areas, was tailored to its specific use while maintaining a unified look and feel.

Benchmark FF&E delivered a functional, future-proof laboratory environment that supports the University’s research capabilities across multiple disciplines.

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