Claremont had been appointed from the outset following a competitive tender to deliver the workplace consultancy, concept / visual designs. The Claremont team conducted workshops and questionnaires with most staff in all areas of the business and alsothe residents committee which delivered a robust qualitative and quantitative report to advise the direction and requirement of the design and eventual refurbishment project.

The final design incorporates all findings from the workplace consultancy and concept design stage and alsoprovides the basis for a new business brand and cultural development. The new business is to be called “Eastlight Housing” and will benefit from significantly improved public spaces, collaboration and new ways of working settings within the existing envelope of the building.

A post Covid occupancy plan has been created which demonstrates a staged and sensible return over the coming months to full intend occupancy.

The completion of the consultancy and design stages came at a time when the client had vacated the premises due to the Covid 19 situation. The feedback from all staff and the resident’s group was very positive in that they felt engaged in the process and were excited about the changes that were to take place and the future for their combined businesses.

Our process for delivery included an open book tender which resulted in a 10% saving against agreed budgets and cost expectations. The works are due to commence on 6th July with a single phase programme taking advantage of the limited occupancy of the building. The Claremont team are working closely with the client to realise the expectations of the client and the wider community.