Parkeray Regions has recently completed a transformative Cat A refurbishment in Milton Keynes for a large institutional client. Spanning 49,000 sq ft across the ground and second floors of Witan Gate House, the project involved a comprehensive strip‑out and rebuild to prepare the space for the tenant’s upcoming Cat B fit out. 

What began as vacant office accommodation was taken back to shell and core, creating a clean, modern foundation ready for the next stage of development.

Reconstructing key internal spaces

A major component of the project was the full refurbishment of both toilet cores. These areas were completely stripped back to a bare shell before being rebuilt with new walls, ceilings, cubicles, sanitaryware, sinks and taps, vanity units, lighting, tiling and newly installed doors and frames. The renewed spaces now meet modern standards of durability, functionality and presentation.

The lift lobbies also underwent significant reconstruction. Stripped back in their entirety, they were refitted with new floor tiling, terrazzo‑finished lift walls, upgraded ceilings and improved lighting. These upgrades bring a fresh, contemporary look to high‑use circulation areas and contribute to the overall uplift of the building’s internal environment.

Working within an occupied building

One of the defining challenges of this project was the need to deliver all noisy works out of hours. With the building remaining fully occupied throughout the programme, the team coordinated early mornings, late evenings and weekend working to ensure that tenants were not disrupted. This approach demanded careful planning, precise sequencing and strong communication with all stakeholders.

Complicating matters further, large volumes of unexpected furniture and a range of hidden services were uncovered during the strip‑out. These unforeseen elements extended the programme and required the team to remain flexible, adapting the schedule and resources while maintaining quality and safety standards.

A successful blank canvas finish

Despite the logistical challenges and extended strip‑out period, the project team delivered a well‑presented, high‑quality space ready for the incoming tenant to commence their Cat B fit out. The completed works represent a full transformation of both floors, effectively reconstructing them from the ground up to reach the standard now in place.