How cost engineering and clever procurement helped deliver this London townhouse remodel
THE PROJECT
Our client in inner London had decided to carry out a loft conversion to extend and remodel her four storey period townhouse. In doing so she was also creating two large modern apartments. The upper levels of the house were redesigned by the architect to create a light, airy and contemporary open plan entertaining space. The design also added additional accommodation for family and guests. A new glazed open-tread staircase was installed. Finally two new outdoor roof terraces were installed, one on each of the two upper levels, to take advantage of the views across the rooftops and beyond.
THE CHALLENGE
Our client had a strict budget and a lot of work commitments. She appointed us to organise and support her building project from the design stage to completion.
THE SOLUTION
At the beginning of any building project it is important to check the accuracy and affordability of the designs. Working closely with the client and her architect, CLPM were brought in to carry out a design review and to go on to produce an accurate line-by-line estimate for the cost of the scheme.This budget figure can help set budgets for discretionary items such as kitchens, sanitary ware or light fittings, and gives a benchmark for the next stage – the tender. As budgets were very tight we helped review the fixtures and fittings selected to bring costs in line. We supported our client by looking at alternative specifications, and introduced her to more affordable suppliers who could still deliver the high quality design and finish required for the project.
Once the specifications were set we then organised the tender. This involves preparing all of the documentation to brief a suitable list of local builders and then chasing and analysing the returns. We then helped our client to choose her build team and prepared all of the building contracts. We also carried out the project management role of Contract Administrator for the building project on site.
THE RESULT
Tight specifications and clever purchasing by our client, together with a careful eye on build quality and the programme by her project manager meant that while budgets were stretched, our client spent her time and money wisely. The result is a beautiful home and a wise investment for the future.
CLPM Services used by our client:-
Design Review, Cost Estimating and Budgeting, Cost Engineering, Tender Management and Analysis, Monthly Cost Reporting, Contract Administration.
Every time something came up, I felt it was a challenge, but one that CLPM would overcome. I genuinely would recommend them to anybody. It’s hugely beneficial not having to be on site all the time. A project manager is a major practical use of time. My project manager was brilliant – she was my builder friend…. she was a sounding board on everything when it came to making decisions.
Ms F, London