Sustainable mixed-use development in Shanghai
China
740 Waterside Drive, Aztec West
This project comprised the strip-out, reconfiguration, extension and refurbishment of an existing three-floor 4,700m2 office building and adjacent car park at Aztec West Business Park on the outskirts of Bristol.
740 Waterside Drive, Aztec West was designed to achieve a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating under the UK refurbishment and fit-out scheme and was the first project to be certified under the new 2014 refurbishment criteria. The project features photovoltaic panels on the roof, and the refurbishment also entailed extension of the reception area, all new mechanical and electrical services plant, VRV air conditioning, new cores and raised access floors and ceilings throughout.
Our role
Currie & Brown was appointed at inception stage by the developer as cost consultant. Working closely with the architect, we provided feasibility estimates to help establish the most viable scheme for the project.
Once the preferred scheme was identified, the design was developed to RIBA ‘Stage D’ to enable a detailed planning application. As part of this process, we developed a detailed cost plan model to provide a cost control framework to enable the design to develop within the defined budget.
Throughout the design development stages, we provided lifecycle costing information to assist the design team and client to make informed decisions on the preferred options to achieve optimal value and meet BREEAM criteria. Several cost appraisal options were considered to maximise the life and rental income for the site and building. These included new-build options, extensions and alternative remodelling options.
Currie & Brown was then responsible for managing the single-stage design and build tender process, contract award, and post-contract project and financial control.
Accurate and timely proactive post-contract cost control was essential to ensure quick and informed decisions were made for this seven-month fast-track project. The initial tenders came within the range predicted by our cost plan, and the final account was agreed promptly after practical completion within the client’s budget.
