CLIENT: MAPLE PLACE & 12-16 FITZROY STREET
CLIENT: DERWENT LONDON
VALUE: £2.2M
COMPLETED: OCTOBER 2010

THE WORKS
Working with Derwent London we carried out a Catergory A refurbishment to two properties - Maple Place and Fitzroy Street - in tandem, with the ultimate aim to connect the premises and create a unified feel between them.

Our team worked on a Cut and Carve to Fitzroy Street, which involved forming a new entrance to connect both properties. On the ground floor of Maple Place, we had to break out and lay a new polished concrete slab, as well as install new bespoke ground floor curtain walling with pivot panes. At Fitzroy Street one of the major parts of the refurbishment was the installation of a new large roof light to enlarge the opening. Across the premises our team supported with the installation of new services and lighting throughout, as well as carrying out a lift overhaul, and installing new WCs for the property.

THE CHALLENGE
As this project involved the connection of two different premises, which also involved residential properties, it meant we had limited shared access on these back-to-back buildings. The residential flats above Fitzroy Street, Student accommodation around and adjacent to Maple Place while undertaking noisy structural works, made this a particularly challenging project from a logistics perspective, and the request for bespoke features resulted in a long lead team for glazing, stairs and balustrading.

OUR SOLUTION
It was essential to engage with the surrounding tenants to inform them of upcoming structural adjustments and noisy works. We ensured there were agreed times for breaking out the concrete slabs and all residents' concerns were listened to and acted on. Shared access areas were strictly controlled for timed deliveries and clearly communicated to ensure minimal disruption to both residents and the project. To manage the extended lead times, our team worked closely with the client to get an early sign-off, and put in delivery requests well ahead of time.

PROJECT GALLERY

THINGS WE LEARNED
In projects that involve residential premises, early and accurate communication with the surrounding community is vital to limit disruption and manage expectations during the project. Ensuring access to essential facilities such as bins, parking etc. for the residential tenants and collections to maintain smooth relations are also critical. Establishing strong relationships in the community is something our team pride themselves on, and the experience of working with residential tenants on this project reaffirmed our belief that communication and consideration are essential for the best outcomes for all involved.

ARCHITECT - Morris + Company
SERVICES CONSULTANT - GDM
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER - Akera Engineers
PROJECT MANAGER - The Collins Partnership (Retired)
PQS - The Collins Partnership (Retired)

SERVICES USED
Contractor Design Management
Project Management
Office Refurbishment