Bournemouth University Active Travel Facility - Case Study

November 20, 2023

Bournemouth University Unisex Changing Space

Bournemouth University has an extensive portfolio of sites across the town. At its Poole House Location they wanted to create an active travel facility. This space would be used for those commuting to work who may want to dry wet clothes, change and freshen up before and/or after work.

The project was for two rooms - a male and a female showering and changing space - as well as a drying room in which users could leave wet clothes, and coats to dry. With the university having its own dedicated contractors and tradespeople, Commercial Washrooms were approached for a professional specification and design service, as well as the supply of all washroom materials.

Waterproof Private Showering Cubicles

A new integrated plumbing system was used to create a service void in which to house all the mains services for the showers. This was fronted in a waterproof panelling made from solid grade laminate. This material is highly durable and completely impervious to water. Private showering cubicles were created using more solid grade laminate, this time in a high end wood grain finish. Lever operated thermostatic mixer showers were installed within, along with the required floor drains to accommodate the full flow of water.

Outside the shower cubicles we supplied slatted solid grade laminate changing benches, that were fixed firmly to the floor. These changing benches have a high rail hosting a series of hooks for keeping dry clothes off wet surfaces.

Custom Corian Vanity Countertop

The changing areas also required lockers for users to keep their belongings secure, which we supplied with matching solid grade laminate door panels, keeping a clean colourway throughout. The hand wash area was created using a custom vanity unit that carried a Corian solid surface countertop, with pre-formed basins within. Delabie sensor taps were chosen to mitigate touch points post hand wash, and was paired with a sensor activated hand dryer, which was wall mounted close to the vanity unit. Hair dryers were also installed in the room, as well as a series of mirrors, wall cladding and anti-slip safety flooring.

By using the specification and supply services from Commercial Washrooms, Bournemouth University were able to ensure that their new active travel facility met all the necessary criteria for a commercial setting. With an emphasis on usability, durability and hygiene, we were also able to ensure that their new facilities were capable of a prolonged and user-friendly life ahead.