Leading independent multidisciplinary engineering consultancy HDR has been appointed to provide engineering, commissioning, and operations services as well as MEP services on Skanska’s 340,000-square-foot mixed-used scheme on The Knightsbridge Estate, London, a magnificent island site occupying 3.5 acres of prime real estate in the heart of Knightsbridge.
Meticulously restored and modernized in recent years by owner The Olayan Group, the most important enhancement is underway at the northern end of this prestigious property. Here a 340,000-square-foot mixed-use scheme will sit behind the retained heritage façades, maintaining the unique character of the area, while delivering a brand-new building that meets modern occupiers’ needs.
The redevelopment will deliver seven new flagship stores, high quality Grade A office accommodation and 33 luxury apartments for the rental market set around a private courtyard. A roof-top restaurant will crown the development accessed via a ground floor café and deli.
Working with Skanska’s integrated team of mechanical, electrical, and public health experts, HDR was appointed as the Commissioning Management team. Following the excellent performance of HDR’s teams at the early stages of this project, Skanska assigned HDR to provide mechanical, electrical, and plumbing services that will serve the Knightsbridge underground station.
This project implemented Nucleus, HDR’s bespoke self-developed management and validation software. Nucleus has been a huge success and has helped track the progress of the works through the certification process. It has helped manage issues, risks, actions, and documents while providing the opportunity to record site observations, diary entries and safety risk assessments. Nucleus allowed the company to successfully conduct progressive sectional completions on this project. This is to ensure key units are open on time and that their heating, cooling, water, power, and safety are ready ahead of planned occupancy, all while there are ongoing construction works back-of-house.
