Orchard House, a residential development in Durham for over 55s comprising 46 apartments, has undergone significant refurbishment.
Orchard House, a residential development in Durham for over 55s comprising 46 apartments, has undergone significant refurbishment. The half-million-pound project included full window replacement, guttering and downpipes renewal, and external decoration to entrance doors and garages.
This project was many years in the making with planning application first submitted nine years ago. Several Property Managers have been involved during this time, but the long-anticipated improvements were finally delivered in 2025 under the supervision of Helen Douglass, supported by Property Manager Team Leader, Julie Howe.
Coordinating such a large-scale refurbishment required extensive engagement and negotiation with leaseholders and residents, as well as mediation between the contractors and leaseholders. This was in addition to navigating the statutory Section 20 consultation process.
The works were overseen out by multiple contractors; Lambert Smith Hampton carried out initial surveys and provided overall project management, Datim Building Contractors Limited was appointed as the main on-site contractor, while window installation was completed by Ramage Windows.
Additional improvements were identified and addressed throughout the planned works. A section of flat roofing was able to be renewed, rather than repaired, when further inspection from the scaffold showed this to be a more cost-effective option. Painting of the atrium window was carried out while scaffolding was in place to replace the atrium window glass, and the internal communal entrance doors were repainted in a lighter colour to match the main entrance doors, at the request of several leaseholders. Any asbestos discovered during the works was encapsulated and made safe. By completing these additional works while access equipment was already in place, a significant cost saving was achieved for leaseholders.
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The new UPVC windows have significantly improved the building’s appearance.
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External doors and garages have greatly benefited from redecoration.
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Internal view of new windows and decoration.
A hugely positive outcome from the project has been the strengthening of trust between leaseholders and Kingston. Overcoming challenges with open communication and effective problem-solving has developed a more productive working relationship. Contractors also engaged well with leaseholders by attending meetings and carefully managing limited resident parking during the works.
The refurbishment works have been met with widespread praise from leaseholders, particularly for Glen, the project manager from Datim, whose dedication and long hours have been consistently highlighted.
Residents also commended the professionalism, friendliness, and hard work of the entire team, noting the exceptional standard of work, especially the new UPVC windows. The attention to detail by the painters, the thorough planning demonstrated in project meetings, and the overall coordination on site have all contributed to a positive experience and high levels of satisfaction.
The successful delivery of this long-awaited refurbishment has not only greatly enhanced the aesthetics of Orchard House but has also reinforced cooperation and community spirit within the development.
