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Fiat

The challenge

To transform a new build industrial unit in Slough into a state-of-the-art press and training centre for the car manufacturer.

Where they were

Italian car manufacturer, Fiat, had leased a new build industrial unit in Slough, where they wanted to develop a cutting-edge press and training centre to educate students and showcase their products.

Opl was brought on board to create this unique facility, working from a completely blank canvas to transform the premises.

What we did

We created category B administrative office accommodation, class rooms, a café area and workshop during the 19 week build programme. In addition, a purpose built press centre was created to showcase and prepare new models from the Fiat Group.

The existing first floor was used for the office, and a mezzanine floor was installed to accommodate the space needed for a fully functional training centre. All of the classrooms open up onto a balcony to allow students to see practical examples and live demonstrations relating to their specific session. The mezzanine level links directly to both the first floor and the ground floor.

Fiat also specified a number of in-ground and surface fixed ramps where deep excavations were necessary which meant having to remove large sections of the power floated warehouse floor. Despite this challenge, the £1.2 million project was delivered on time and on budget.

Show project details
Client:
Fiat
Project:
Unetversity Training Centre
Size:
15,000 sq ft
Location:
Slough
Duration of project:
19 weeks
Date of completion:
16th May 2011
Contractor:
Opl
Designer:
Opl
PM:
Opl
Engineer:
Robert Walpole & Partners
Working with Opl on the press and training centre has been a great experience. We have had one key account handler who has led us through the design and development process with enthusiasm and expertise. The finished result is a unique facility that truly reflects our brands, it will be a real asset to our business and improve our training capabilities going forward.
AR, Training Director at Fiat's Unetversity

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