Global Tech Firm
Soho Office, London
London’s Soho has a global reputation as a hub for media, creative and digital businesses. So, when one of the world’s most successful tech companies acquired a new 60,000 sq ft office in the area, it needed a renovation that reflected its international reputation and digital outlook.
With our experience of delivering fit out services in complex locations, we coordinated a phased development that took the building from a mix of shell and core and CAT ‘A’, through to a bold and sophisticated CAT ‘B’ fit out.
KEY FACTS
Project: Fit Out
Sector: Commercial
Size: 60,000 sq ft
Programme: 40 weeks
Contract: JCT Traditional
Procurement: Single-stage
TEAM
Architect: BDG Workfutures
PM: Gardiner & Theobald
PQS: Gardiner & Theobald
Services: Troup Bywaters & Anders
Structural: Waterman Associates
The Project
Our client’s newly acquired office space was spread across seven expansive floors in the heart of Soho. To overcome the logistical challenges that come with developments in this densely populated area and enable quick occupation of the building, the client tasked 8build with devising a phased schedule of works.
Phase one of the development covered the lower four floors, incorporating a reception, canteen, games room, entertainment space and two dedicated office floors. While phase two consisted of upper office floors, a boardroom, senior management offices and catering facilities. The final phase of works saw an existing comms room removed and replaced with a fit out of contemporary open-plan office space and additional meeting rooms.
Intelligent Planning
By devising a detailed enabling works scope, we allowed potential disruptive works to be programmed and carried out during phase one — minimising disruption during phase two.
Secure Protection
The nature of our client’s high-security operations required robust security solutions. With effective ‘containment’ and segregation of the phase two site from the occupied areas, we ensured heightened security, control and programming during the second phase of development.
Prioritising Client Need
Our client’s extensive communications and data facilities are fundamental to its business. By prioritising the construction of these facilities we were able to make them operational six weeks before overall project completion.
Considerate Construction
Access to upper floors required the installation of a loading gantry and hoist. To ensure smooth-sailing operations and maintain good relationships with the neighbouring community in this logistically challenging location, we engaged regularly with stakeholders on behalf of our client.
Bespoke Solutions
The underfloor air conditioning system required a unique solution to ventilate the numerous meetings rooms. By devising an acoustically treated space and a bespoke ductwork arrangement, we seamlessly integrated this work with the AV installation.
The project’s provided a modern installation within a historic building, which meant our team had to provide detailed coordination and intricate detail for all aspects of the installation and design, emphasised by the high degree of joinery installed within the project.
Robert Strange, Project Director, 8build