Excellence in Student Accommodation: The Spireworks Project
A Modern Approach to Construction
Student accommodation has evolved significantly over the past decade, with a strong emphasis on durable materials, sustainability, and occupant well-being. The Spireworks, a contemporary student accommodation development located at 163 Cowley Road in Oxford, reflects this evolution, showcasing effective construction techniques and reliable materials.
Completed by main contractor RG Group for student accommodation provider Aparto, The Spireworks is a £21 million development that integrates seamlessly into Oxford’s vibrant and eclectic surroundings.
Designed by ICA Architects, the scheme delivers 137 student bedrooms alongside a range of communal spaces, including a gym, games room, study areas, and an outdoor courtyard. Retail and service facilities within the development also enhance the local community’s amenities.
Reliable Building Envelope Solutions
A crucial element of The Spireworks project was the roofing and waterproofing system, which needed to deliver durability, energy efficiency, and long-term performance. Specialist contractor Roofworx (UK) Ltd was appointed to manage this complex installation, ensuring the specified solutions met the required standards.
Matthew Coupe, Managing Director at Roofworx (UK) Ltd, explained: “The roofing and cladding package was particularly challenging, with multiple interfaces and a phased construction programme. Early involvement in the design stages was key, enabling us to collaborate closely with ICA Architects and specify products that would ensure longevity and performance.”
SOPREMA’s solutions were specified for the roofing works, delivering a full building envelope system that offered both waterproofing integrity and thermal efficiency. The project incorporated a total of 1,200m² of SOPREMA’s products:
720m² of DUOFLEX hot melt system with 200mm SOPRAXPS insulation and 56mm cement board upstands for the main roof.
450m² of SOPRATORCH bituminous membrane multi-layer system, combined with SOPRATHERM PIR tapered insulation on various levels.
50m² of FLAGON single ply membrane for all canopies and lift-over runs, incorporating edge trims and drips.
Overcoming Challenges for a Seamless Installation
Every construction project presents unique challenges, and The Spireworks was no exception. With a phased build programme and an initial two-month delay due to external factors, meticulous planning was essential to keep the project on schedule.
“The project required strategic sequencing as the building was constructed in two halves,” said Matthew Coupe. “Additionally, persistent wet weather during winter months posed further delays. To counter this, we specified SOPRADVANCE concrete compound, a SOPREMA solution that enabled application to the concrete deck after just seven days instead of the standard 28-day curing period. This allowed us to accelerate the programme without compromising quality.”
Logistics also played a critical role, as the project’s central location within Oxford’s narrow streets meant material deliveries had to be precisely timed. Roofworx worked closely with SOPREMA to coordinate deliveries, ensuring smooth progress and avoiding disruption.
Quality assurance was another key consideration. SOPREMA’s in-house field technicians conducted thorough on-site inspections at every stage of the installation, ensuring all waterproofing elements met required performance standards. Furthermore, all operatives received full SOPREMA system training, ensuring a consistent standard of workmanship.
A Lasting Legacy for Oxford’s Student Community
Despite initial setbacks, The Spireworks project was successfully completed on time and within budget, delivering a modern, comfortable, and durable living space for Oxford’s student population. The collaboration between Roofworx, ICA Architects, RG Group, and SOPREMA played a pivotal role in overcoming challenges and ensuring the necessary standards were achieved.
The success of the project underscores the importance of early-stage collaboration, the right product specification, and technical expertise in delivering durable, future-proof buildings.
Today, The Spireworks provides students with a safe and well-constructed living environment for years to come.
To find out how SOPREMA can help support your next project visit www.soprema.co.uk or email technical@soprema.co.uk.