Elizabeth House - 39 York Road - London SE1 7NQ Tel: +44 207 401 0020 - Fax: +44 207 401 0030 www.bouygues-uk.com
THE HOME OFFICE
We successfully completed the design and construction of the multi-award-winning 75,000m² building in 2005.
With architectural design by Terry Farrell & Partners, the building provides a striking focus for the regeneration of the surrounding area, and is part of a mixed-use development which includes residential accommodation, urban spaces, pathways and retail outlets.
At just 34 months, the original timescale for the project was tight. However, demolition of the former towers added a further challenge, with 65m diameter concrete bunkers buried beneath the old offices. Controlled explosives, used to facilitate the final demolition, were overlapped with the start of works to ensure the programme was achieved on time. Fast track construction techniques were also adopted, including “hybrid construction”, a mix of pre-cast and in-situ concrete structural elements.
With the flexibility provided by the PFI model, significant architectural features were integrated into the building during construction without affecting the financial or programming aspects of the project.
Close and positive partnerships with the client, community stakeholders and our entire supply
chain were crucial to the project’s success. The Home Office contributed to design development throughout the process, with user groups extensively involved at all key stages. The local community was regularly consulted and updated on progress, and hoardings were enlivened with paintings from local artists and children at Millbank Primary School.
In addition to awards for its architecture, the new building was awarded BREEAM “Excellent” certification for sustainable design.
To enhance the building’s performance over time, our sister company ETDE was deeply involved in the design and procurement process, optimising the building’s long-term value and operation. ETDE is responsible for facilities management for the 26-year duration of the PFI contract.
“Bouygues UK are very strong in engineering and design,” said Sir Terry Farrell. “They understand that it’s about value and making sure the design works.”
Our landmark Home Office Headquarters was the first new government building to be delivered in central London in nearly a decade.
KEY FACTS
NAME: The Home Office
CLIENT: The Home Office
DURATION: 34 months
LOCATION: Westminster, London
SECTOR: Commercial Developments
AWARDS: CABE Festive Five, MIPIM Award for Best Business Centre, RIBA Award
TYPE OF WORK: New Build
