Revamping 200 Buckingham Palace Road: Willmott Dixon’s Sustainable Vision

As I sat down with Mark Thompson, Project Manager at Willmott Dixon Interiors, his evident pride and enthusiasm about the company’s latest venture—transforming 200 Buckingham Palace Road into the new headquarters for the British Transport Police—were unmistakable. This project, awarded by SCAPE, represents a significant milestone for the company and promises to stand as a flagship example of modern, sustainable office design. Our conversation delved into the core of this ambitious undertaking, shedding light on the challenges, innovations, and aspirations propelling it forward.

Focus360 Energy: property compliance services – pre-planning to post-construction. Learn more.

“Securing this project was a significant achievement for us,” Mark began, his enthusiasm palpable. “It’s not just about the scale of the job, but also the impact it will have on the community and the environment. We’re talking about a complete refurbishment of a seven-storey building in the heart of Westminster, adjacent to London Victoria Coach Station. The logistics alone are a fascinating challenge.”

Indeed, the task at hand is monumental. The refurbishment of 200 Buckingham Palace Road involves a comprehensive strip-out of the existing interiors, followed by a rebuild that meets CAT B standards. This entails creating modern, flexible office spaces that are fully accessible and comply with the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA). The project aims to enhance the arrival experience with a new front entrance, designed to impress visitors from the outset.

As Mark detailed the scope of the work, it became evident that safety and sustainability are at the core of the project’s ethos. “We’re replacing all existing mechanical and electrical services to minimise carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency. Our goal is to achieve an EPC A/B rating, which is a testament to our commitment to sustainability.”

The project’s green credentials extend further. Willmott Dixon Interiors is also investing in the local community by providing skills training and work experience opportunities. “It’s important for us to give back,” Mark explained. “We’re employing local labour wherever possible, which not only supports the community but also helps build a workforce that is invested in the project’s success.”

The logistical challenges of refurbishing a building in such a bustling part of London cannot be overstated. “We’re working right next to London Victoria Coach Station, so we’ve had to be incredibly mindful of our project delivery hours to minimise disruption,” Mark noted. “Our plan is to deliver the programme in phases, ensuring the building remains operational throughout. It’s akin to performing open-heart surgery on a building—everything needs to keep running smoothly while we make our improvements.”

One of the most striking aspects of our conversation was Mark’s emphasis on the collaborative nature of the project. “This isn’t just about us,” he said. “We’re working closely with Places for London, the TfL Property Company, to ensure that the design and functionality of the new headquarters meet the needs of the British Transport Police. It’s a partnership in the truest sense.”

Laura Fernie, Head of Commercial Offices at Places for London, echoed this sentiment in a recent comment. “This is a key project which will see one of our office buildings transformed into a modern, highly-sustainable workplace. It’s not just about creating a new headquarters for the British Transport Police but also about generating sustainable revenue that can be reinvested into making London a thriving, more connected city.”

As our conversation drew to a close, I asked Mark what he was most looking forward to as the project progresses. He paused, reflecting on the journey ahead. “I think it’s the transformation itself,” he said thoughtfully. “Seeing a building evolve from its current state into something that is not only visually impressive but also functional and sustainable. It’s incredibly rewarding.”

Mark’s excitement was infectious, and it was easy to see why this project is such a significant undertaking for Willmott Dixon Interiors. As they embark on this fast-paced journey, the promise of a stylish, flexible, and sustainable headquarters for the British Transport Police stands as a beacon of what can be achieved with vision, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence.

The transformation of 200 Buckingham Palace Road is more than just a refurbishment; it’s a statement of intent for the future of workplace design. With a focus on employee well-being, environmental sustainability, and community engagement, Willmott Dixon Interiors is setting a new standard for what modern office spaces can be.

By Tobiasz Karcz

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*