1 George’s Quay – a 26 year old building in need of reinvigoration. It was one of the largest refurbishment projects we have undertaken in terms of complexity and value. The existing building did not comply with ANY of the parts of the current Building Control Regulations. The CAT A fit out comprised a significant construction element – removal of 2 existing secondary reinforced concrete cores, installation of 80 mini piles in basement for new structure construction works, extension of the front and rear of the building, construction of new shower and toilet blocks in basement area and reglazing of entire building. The cut and carve refurbishment took place in a live campus environment in a heavily trafficked city centre location with residential units, retail units and other offices. 1GQ achieved an A rated BER and LEED platinum rating, it was certified BCAR one week after PC and achieved the air permeability requirement.
Michael Ennis, BKD Architects said of 1GQ: ‘This project was one of the most technically challenging projects I have undertaken. The design challenges were matched only by the construction challenges which required an extremely high degree of Construction Excellence.’