From the projects shown above and others we have developed a methodology to handle the different types of renovations which has enable us to deliver successful projects.

The methodology can be summarized in 4 phases that are essential during the design stage:

The most difficult and fundamental phase is information and data gathering. Usually a task that require very little creative work, but in renovation it becomes the foundation on which all the future tasks are based.

In over thirty years and working with various organizations we can positively confirm that the majority of as built drawings of buildings are either out of date or do not exist at all.

If they exist either on paper or digital format, they are usually not current and do not reflect all the changes done to the building over the years.

And here starts the first hurdle of the project; surveys to generate as built drawings for which no budget has been assigned, or time has been allocated in the project programme!

Phase one: Always allocate budget and time at the outset for this task.

After passing this hurdle, Phase two consists of ensuring you have got all stakeholders views and vision about this renovation. Depending on the nature of the business, you have to deal with top co, finance, operation, marketing, and management people. The views are not always on the same frequencies.

We undertake series of workshops and presentations to assess and develop a project brief that settles the most contradictory views and achieve convergence of opinions.

Phase two now almost done, as views tend to continue evolving and need to be kept in check, we are ready for the next phase. 

Phase three: Design!!

The desire to breathe new life into an old structure is very thrilling. We work with so many constraints compared to a new building, however the challenge here  is to overcome these constraints and at the same time create a design that makes a statement in its built environment and is responsive to the needs of its users. 

The last phase of the design stage journey culminate in agreeing an implementation and phasing programme that satisfy all stakeholders, thus finishing phase three and entering phase four!

Phase four is how to implement the renovation while the building is still in operation?

The complication of renovating occupied buildings is a science in its own right. It requires excellent design & technical skills complemented by lateral thinking and diplomatic skills.

Here are few battles that need to be won with;

• The impacts on the occupants of the building
• What to built first
• How to buffer the occupants from the loss of income due to closure of parts of the building, and the managing of partial handover of completed sections
• Management of visual and aesthetics impacts from construction
• Anticipation of all environmental, health, and safety aspects
• Impacts on adjacent areas and properties not being renovated
• The logistics of managing construction on a built site with no free space

The list is very long, however careful planning, planning, planning from designers, contractors and operators is essential.

With a pinch of pragmatism and accepting the inevitable inconvenience of to ensure the success of the project.

And again, there is no gain without pain!