The Project

PBC was appointed by Columbia Threadneedle Investments to act as Project Manager, Employers’ Agent and Cost Management Consultants for a JCT design and build project to refurbish the first floor and common parts of Yorke House, a commercial office building on a business park in Solihull.  This involved the strip-out and refurbishment of the 10,000 sq. ft. first-floor space, and the refurbishment of the main entrance areas, WCs, lift and other common parts.

PBC Scope

The ground floor of the building remained occupied so all work carried out by the contractor had to be undertaken to minimise noise and disruption to the tenant.  As the building had a single means of entry, when the double-height reception area was being upgraded, a temporary walkway at the back of the building had to be installed.  A phased refurbishment of the WCs was also put in place, so that employees working in the building were not inconvenienced.

The M&E system was upgraded, with the first floor receiving a new HVAC VRF system, new lighting, and a new set of DDA-compliant doors were installed in the reception area.  Redecoration was carried out and new ceiling tiles and grids, and new carpeting, were installed internally, and a condenser compound was added externally to the south side of the building.  The interior of the lift was refurbished, and a new tea point was added on the first floor.

As well as ensuring the high-quality refurbishment was completed on time, the environmental impact of the project was also carefully managed.  Ninety-eight per cent of all waste materials were recycled, and eight new bat boxes were also installed in Hillfield Park.  Going the extra mile, the contractor also cleaned the external decking area and revarnished the outdoor tables and chairs, so that the building’s tenants could enjoy the glorious summer weather!