We have supported Simon Kucher UK with design and project management services for several years. Our involvement for their most recent relocation to Fleet Place began with helping to define a comprehensive design brief, and this was used to create a detailed space plan and high level budget before going out to tender. The tender went to four Design & Build companies who developed the design, providing their own concepts and pricing for comparison.
The successful contractor created a great deal of enthusiasm with a very innovative concept and was awarded the fit-out. Once appointed, we worked closely with both them and the client team to develop the design for construction. Cost negotiation and value engineering were central to the design development, and it took some time before the client was happy and contracts were signed. The works commenced with a relatively tight programme and with noise restrictions from an on-site broadcaster on the floor above. The project progressed well, which was crucial, as notice had been given on their current office space, and the project was completed on time and within the agreed budget.
The furniture package was managed separately to the main contract and after providing a detailed specification (with options) we supplied the furniture on an open book basis with a declared margin. A mix of fixed and height adjustable desks and chairs from Sedus was chosen, with Icons of Denmark meeting furniture, Davison Highley soft furnishings, Modus tables with benches and Gubi stools for the breakout area being some of the new furniture items supplied. There were also many existing furniture items from Vitra and Humanscale that were relocated and topped up as required. We managed the installation of the new along with the relocation of the existing and disposal of unrequired items to ensure a co-ordinated and timely move.
