Scope of Works

The project involved the refurbishment of a historic early 20th-century building that serves as office space for two separate departments across two floors. Over the decades, the building had undergone various adaptations that resulted in a layout and infrastructure that no longer met the needs of its current occupants. The objective of this project was to modernize the interior space, enhance functionality, and provide a safe and comfortable working environment. The refurbishment included conducting a comprehensive feasibility study to define the brief and scope for renovations, followed by architectural and interior design services to transform the space.

Challenges

The primary challenges faced during this project included:

–Preservation of Historical Character: While modernizing the building, it was essential to preserve its historical architectural elements and integrity, ensuring that the refurbishment remained in line with heritage considerations.

-Aging Infrastructure: The building’s infrastructure had deteriorated over time, requiring extensive modernization of mechanical, electrical, and fire services to comply with current standards.

-Asbestos Removal: The presence of significant amounts of asbestos, due to historical construction practices, posed a major health risk and required careful removal and disposal in accordance with safety regulations.

–Departmental Requirements: Each department had unique requirements for space planning and functionality. Understanding and balancing these needs was crucial to ensure that the renovated space would enhance productivity and employee satisfaction.

Design Solution

Our architectural design team developed a comprehensive refurbishment plan following an initial feasibility study that outlined the project’s requirements and constraints. The design solution focused on maximizing space efficiency, improving building systems, and providing a modern working environment that caters to the departments’ specific needs.

• Feasibility Report and Space Planning: The initial feasibility report assessed the building’s existing condition, layout, and systems, identifying key areas for intervention. A space planning strategy was then developed to optimize the layout, create dedicated spaces for each department, and improve overall circulation within the building.
• Interior Design and Asbestos Removal: The proposed design included a full internal refurbishment, incorporating new partitions, finishes, and lighting to create a bright, modern workspace. Due to the extensive presence of asbestos, our team coordinated the safe removal and management of hazardous materials as a priority before commencing other refurbishment activities.
• Mechanical, Electrical, and Fire Services Design: Modernized mechanical and electrical services were integrated to support new heating, cooling, and lighting systems, ensuring energy efficiency and comfort. Fire safety systems were upgraded in compliance with current regulations, including the installation of advanced fire detection and alarm systems.
• Holistic Design Approach: A collaborative approach was taken, integrating architectural, interior, and engineering disciplines to ensure all design elements were aligned. This included selecting sustainable materials, enhancing the building’s energy efficiency, and incorporating future-proofing measures for long-term use.

This comprehensive refurbishment transformed a dated and inadequate office space into a modern, efficient, and safe working environment tailored to the needs of the departments. The project not only improved the building’s functionality but also preserved its historical essence, ensuring it remains a valuable asset for years to come.