THE BRIEF
Transform an existing restaurant in a Grade II listed building into the 'first of its kind' co-working venue.
THE CHALLENGE
This project had a number of challenges. First a foremost is the act of converting an existing restaurant into a co-working office space inside a Grade II listed building. This requires careful planning and consideration to retain the integrity and feel of the historic building. Our second challenge was operating within a very limited budget and timeline. Our third challenge was due to this being a 'first of its kind' venue.
THE SOLUTION
Due to the limited timeline, the decision was made to engage a design and build (D&B) contractor to reduce the development phase. This allowed for costs to be advanced at the same rate as the design and adjusted as the process continued. Socius Projects were employed as Client's Agent with dual responsibility rather than traditional PM/QS role. The Client had limited experience in construction so Socius Projects were employed to ensure their interests were protected and advise as the project progressed. Our secondary role was to liaise between the contractor and client. Our wealth of experience on a practical level allowed clear technical communication with the contractor over requirements and simple translation to the client. This created a good relationship between the two parties.
THE RESULT
The project was delivered on time and on budget. The standard of finishes was high and completely sympathetic to the existing characteristics of the building. The client has had nothing but positive feedback which has resulted in more funding and the increased opportunity to expand the excellent culture they are creating in the shared workplace to more towns and cities.
Image credit and copyright to Patch