BACKGROUND

Evergreen Marine, a leader among the world’s top five shipping companies, commands an impressive fleet of two hundred container ships. This Taiwanese-owned enterprise bases its European headquarters at a prestigious location, 160 Euston Rd, London. The company-owned building supports crucial operations that necessitate a modern, efficient workspace to facilitate their global activities.

• Location: London NW1

• Company Size: 400 Staff

• Project Size: 15,000 Sqft CATA / 7,200 Sqft Sublet

• Sector: Finance

• Duration: 18 weeks

PROJECT OVERVIEW AND OBJECTIVES 

Cityspace was entrusted with a comprehensive refurbishment of Evergreen Marine’s 1980s conference suite, covering 15,000 square feet across the ground and first floors of the podium space. The primary objective was to transform the ground floor into sublet office suites while renovating the first floor to include new bathrooms, breakout areas, IT and communications rooms, and Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) compliant facilities for its 400 office employees.

CHALLENGES AND EXPECTATIONS

The project presented several significant challenges. Initially, the condition of the existing mechanical and electrical (M&E) infrastructure was unknown. Mapping out a complex four-pipe system took two days due to the absence of existing drawings or as-built construction details. Structural issues, such as atrium leaks, perforations in the second-floor plant ductwork, and uneven concrete slabs requiring leveling, further complicated the situation. Additionally, urgent attention was needed to address non-compliant fire walls and barriers.

RECOMMENDATIONS 

Relocating a live comms room to new facilities required meticulous planning. Midway through the project, the decision to replace the entire IT office area’s air conditioning and fresh air systems added complexity. Even though the building was occupied, construction primarily took place on mostly vacant floors, necessitating careful coordination to minimize disruptions.

Significant demolition work was undertaken to enhance the space, including removing a central glass and stone staircase to increase the first floor’s net area. A smaller spiral staircase was installed in its place, necessitating test holes and complex load calculations due to missing original build data.

The entire VAV air conditioning system was stripped out and replaced. A compliant fire alarm system was installed, all electrical services were rewired, and architectural finishes were removed back to the shell and core.

New CAT A office spaces were designed and constructed, featuring VRV air conditioning systems, electrical LED lighting compliant with Part L building regulations, power systems, atrium smoke ventilation, raised floors, new toilets, and core fire doors. The first-floor atrium was glazed for acoustic privacy, enabling the entire ground floor to be leased as a standalone unit. DDA toilet provisions were designed and upgraded, and Cat B tenants’ fit-out work was completed.

A new boardroom was designed to accommodate 32 delegates and 20 guests, featuring advanced AV equipment, motorized retractable delegate screens, twin presentation screens, motorized voice-sensing cameras, acoustic panels, and a stretched fabric ceiling for even lighting with multiple scene settings. The boardroom was complemented by a full breakout space and associated facilities.

New LED lighting was installed throughout, and a new communications room was designed and constructed with gas suspension and connections to standby generators, alongside the relocation of all chilled water pipes.

PROJECT OUTCOMES 

The project outcomes were significant and far-reaching. The office’s energy efficiency improved dramatically, upgrading from a borderline E rating to a B rating, thanks to renewable materials, efficient LED lighting, and a VRF inverter system for heating and cooling. These enhancements created a state-of-the-art workspace, significantly boosting functionality and comfort for Evergreen Marine’s employees. By addressing compliance issues and modernizing infrastructure, the project ensured the office space met current standards and could adapt to future requirements.

Through collaboration and a practical approach to problem-solving, Cityspace delivered a highly efficient, modern office environment that aligns with Evergreen Marine’s prestigious standing. This case study exemplifies the importance of experience and expertise in overcoming complex challenges and delivering successful, timely, and cost-effective project outcomes.