PROJECT: THE SOUP KITCHEN COUNSELLING ROOM
CLIENT: THE SOUP KITCHEN
VALUE: UNDISCLOSED / CHARITY PROJECT
COMPLETED: APRIL 2021

THE WORKS
Working with a London charity, our team helped update and upgrade the counselling room at their premises to provide a safe, inviting and calming space for those needing support. This was a very special project, with many of our team and suppliers offering services above and beyond the norm.

The space was created in partnership with Derwent London, and design was offered pro bono by a number of contributors and led by AHMM Architects. The project involved several different elements for our team including the removal of an existing water-damaged unit recently built by another contractor. With the existing unit removed, we then set about building an external purpose-built room under an existing staircase. The room is now used by Soup Kitchen to provide free mental health advice and other services in addition to the food offered to the local homeless and vulnerable people.

THE CHALLENGE
Whilst small, this project was a challenging build from a technical perspective. Waterproofing was the biggest issue as there was not space above or behind the unit due to the presence of the existing staircase. The previous attempt by another contractor had failed to keep the water out due to this difficulty. Our team was tasked with problem solving this issue to protect the premises from future water damage.

OUR SOLUTION
In collaboration with AHMM a design was formulated that allowed the unit to be constructed in three segments, waterproofed and then rolled into position. The lapped design of the waterproofing material selected allowed the adjoining sections to be finished from the inside. This innovative solution has provided us with yet another tool that we can use to help our clients manage unusual building designs.

PROJECT GALLERY

THINGS WE LEARNED
The biggest thing we learned in this case wasn’t related to building design or project management. Instead, we learnt the generosity of our own team, many of whom devoted personal time for this project. We also learnt about the generosity of our supply chain and partners giving up their time and materials to ensure this project was brought to a successful conclusion. It also highlighted the very real issue of homelessness in London and the amazing work of charities like this to offer support to those experiencing homelessness.

The Soup Kitchen is continually supporting a high volume of people and are accepting donations. https://soupkitchenlondon.org

PARTNER & FUNDER - Derwent London
TOP SUPPLY CHAIN CONTRIBUTER - Stortford Interiors
ARCHITECT - Allford Hall Monaghan Morris
SERVICES CONSULTANT - City M&E
STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS - Akera Engineers

SERVICES USED
Contractor Design Management
Project Management
Office Refurbishment