We were awarded this project having successfully completed the Corticol Neruromics Laboratory, also in the Cruciform Building, for UCL.

Key Points:

• Extensive fit-out of three wings within UCL’s iconic Grade II Listed Cruciform Building

• An innovatively sequenced three-phase construction programme delivered on time within a ‘live’ research facility

• Strip-out of existing ceilings, partitions and catering equipment, and remodelling to form new office layout, meeting rooms and laboratory space

• Installation of new laboratory desks, benching, fume cupboards, clinical and storage features, suspended ceiling, glazed partitions, signage and manifestations

• Extensive bespoke joinery elements including reception desk and work booths

Our ‘on-time’ delivery was essential and ensured that additional funding could be approved and released for the new hospital in Queens Square.

Lessons Learnt

We used the ‘Lessons Learnt’ from a previous fit-out project at the Cruciform to deliver this three-phased project for Dementia UK. The key lessons were:

• It was essential to undertake an early intrusive validation of the building’s M&E services to help our designers understand the existing performance and develop a design which met the client’s brief.

• We insisted on weekly design team reviews to ensure coordination and design development kept up with the key programme milestone dates. These reviews allowed us to identify and resolve any delays/issues early.

• Early procurement of M&E and specialist laboratory equipment to ensure phased handover dates could be achieved

• Early engagement with UCL, Dementia UK, the building’s management team and the end-users to establish and agree on a communications protocol.

• Working with the same supply-chain partners and design team capitalised on the learnings and efficiencies gained on the first project and ultimately a quicker delivery programme.