The Client Brief
Epoch Investment Partners, based in the US, were seeking to establish a new office in London when we initially met them. Their requirement for a location in the west end led them to select circa 3,000sqft of accommodation on Regent Street within the Crown Estate. Prior to our engagement they had selected their preferred fitout partner however, as they were based in New York, they recognised they needed assistance locally to coordinate and manage the project and be their eyes and ears throughout the design and construction stages.
Our role included project management, employer’s agent and cost management duties.
Our Solution
A critical part of our role was to build a high level of confidence and trust with our client. They were totally reliant on us to ensure the right level of quality and finish was being delivered and that the scheme incorporated some of the New York office culture and feel.
Establishing effective communication with the client so as they could feel confident about the progress of the project and be involved in all important decisions was imperative. Frequent conference calls, shipping of finishes samples to New York and the preparation of computer-generated visuals was very important so as they could feel comfortable providing approval remotely.
In addition to managing the design and construction stages, we assisted them with every single detail including furniture showroom visits and selection, coffee machine suppliers, arranging for professional printing and framing of artwork our client supplied from New York through to working with a local art dealer to source and install suitable artwork. An important element was extensive liaison with their audio visual partner to ensure the technology in the new office was properly integrated into the overall scheme.
The space was naturally vented via opening windows, which did not provide the desired level of comfort required by our client for their employees or visitors. Incorporated into the fitout was the installation of mechanical fresh air, which required careful consideration given that the building was Grade II Listed and therefore required a planning application and Listed Building consent.
Careful programming of works was required to allow for a restrictive site to mitigate disturbance to existing tenants during normal working hours yet also have regard for the retail units which were operational 7 days a week. There were particular challenges around the life safety systems which were connected to the retail units and extensive advance planning with the landlord was required.
The Result
Epoch Investment Partners opened their new office in December 2016 and were operational for the start of the new year. The project was delivered on time and within the agreed budget and the client commented on how well the visuals reflected the completed work, which they were very pleased with.
A good example of a small project in terms of the size of office but a significant project for our client given it was their new London base. Irrespective of the size and value of the construction work, the project is important to the client and therefore, we provide the same professional and committed service to each instruction.
