The facts
Client: The London School of Economics
Project construction value: £23m
Services provided: Project Management
Start/Completion Date: Ongoing
The project
Northcroft was appointed to deliver a
new expansion project for the London School of Economics Student
Union, providing full cost management services. The objective was
to expand the current space allocation for all existing facilities,
incorporate new facilities and house the whole of the Student Union
under one roof.
Aiming to achieve cross promotion of Union
services and creating a hub for student activities and a sense of
ownership and identity, the Student Union also wanted to reduce
mobility problems and facilitate an efficient and enjoyable service
for students.
Architectural Advice
We advised the LSE throughout their innovative architectural
competition process as to which design was the most cost-efficient
and we advised the architects how to make the most out of their
designs financially. This resulted in the appointed architect
having the client’s confidence that the project could be completed
on budget, which is often not the case in open competition.
One of the most aesthetically important parts of the building is
the lattice brickwork set at differing angles. We managed the
design team through the decision process coming up with the most
efficient solution without compromising the design intent that won
the architectural competition in the first place.
Best Practice
The LSE aspired for a BREEAM ‘Outstanding’. Northcroft closely
monitored and advised upon the best methods of how to attain this
financially (within the set budget) using the critical advice given
by the design team.
Matching Client’s Internal Processes
We have added to our initial cost consultant services for the
construction element of this project and are regularly reporting
the full project costs to the LSE, including their own in-house
figures. We have developed a reporting mechanism that specifically
suits the needs of the LSE and their internal processes.
