Working in a renowned and demanding environment
In Stevenage, we delivered a Commercial Decorating project in a building that houses renowned laboratories and office spaces. This is a place with elevated standards, where important scientific research is conducted every day.
This was no ordinary refurbishment. Laboratories and conference rooms remained fully operational, with daily work continuing inside. Our task was to refresh the spaces quickly, quietly, and without disruption.

The Requirement – rapid refresh of shared spaces
The project scope included:
- Refreshing shared spaces – corridors and conference rooms
- Repairing and repainting damaged skirting boards
- Completing the work within two weeks
- Maintaining full functionality of the building at all times
The greatest challenge was to carry out these works in a live laboratory and office environment, where there is no room for inaccuracy or disruption.
Professional approach to Commercial Decorating in an operational building
We assigned a team of up to five decorators to the project in order to maintain full quality control while working efficiently. Each of them had experience working in live environments, which allowed them to adapt seamlessly to the building’s requirements.
Our principles in such environments are clear:
- Silence and discretion – no disturbance to others’ work
- Cleanliness and order – protecting surfaces and cleaning after each day
- Courtesy and respect – towards people and the environment
- Precision and accuracy – from surface preparation to final finishes
We used water-based paints with low VOC content, compliant with EN 13300 – class 1 scrub resistance. This gave the space durability, hygiene, and a professional look, without unpleasant odours and with a short drying time.


Two weeks of work in a live building
The project lasted two weeks and included a full refresh of shared spaces such as corridors, skirting boards, and conference rooms. During this time, laboratories and offices continued to operate normally, while we worked efficiently, quietly, and almost unnoticed.
Each stage was carried out with great care – from protecting joinery, through even wall painting, to final cleaning. This was not ordinary painting, but Commercial Decorating delivered with full responsibility.
The Result – building restored to order
After completion, the building regained freshness and a professional appearance:
- Shared spaces became brighter and more aesthetic
- Skirting boards were repaired and renewed
- Conference rooms gained an elegant, representative character
What was particularly appreciated was the way the project was carried out – efficiently, quietly, cleanly, and respectfully. It proves that in such demanding environments, it is not only the final result that matters, but also the entire process.

Why Commercial Decorating in such environments requires experience
The project in Stevenage shows that Commercial Decorating in laboratory and office environments is a task for teams with proper preparation. Key elements include:
- Understanding the specificity of the place
- Ability to work without disruption
- High standards of hygiene and safety
- Culture and professionalism
Not every decorator can meet such expectations. We know that it is in these environments where the difference between ordinary painting and professional Commercial Decorating is most visible.
Project Data
- Location: Stevenage
- Building type: Laboratories + offices (live environment)
- Duration: 2 weeks
- Team: Up to 5 people
- Scope: Shared spaces (corridors, conference rooms), skirting boards
- Materials: Water-based paints, low VOC, EN 13300 class 1


Reference
“Just wanted to drop you a note to say what a fantastic job the team have done painting Sycamore House. The team have been great to work with and so happy with the results, they really have gone over and above for us here.”
— Building Manager, Sycamore House
See how we support property managers
Working in live buildings requires planning, precision, and care. Discover our other commercial projects — receptions, galleries, staircases, retail spaces — all completed without disruption and to the highest standards, perfect for property managers.
👉 View all our commercial projects: https://ignas.london/commercial-case-studies/