Building the Building

Berkeley Homes Ltd serves as the main contractor, directing the project independently. The organisation of the company includes both the Main Contractor and subcontractors such as RECO Hoist, MPB, and OCL. Notably, Wallacea, a retirement housing expert, has purchased one of the blocks. The main contractor's performance appears to be positive in my opinion. Subcontractor collaboration and activity on the job site indicate a healthy working environment. Berkeley Homes' major ownership of the building makes them the key clientele and a clear candidate for the job, making the main contractor's pick for the project important. RECO Hoist, MPB, and OCL are specialised subcontractors who bring knowledge in rental fleets, concrete relations, and facades, drylining, and recladding, respectively.The project's main architect changed during the design phase. While TP Bennett created the master plan, Squire and Partners took the lead as the main architect during the design phase, focusing specifically on the project's complex brickwork.

Berkeley Home Ltd

Berkeley Homes Ltd (Main Contractor) is a well-known and trusted property developer specialising in residential projects. Berkeley Homes, with a long history and a strong presence in the industry, has played an important part in creating the landscape of housing developments. The company has received attention for creating high-end and thoughtfully designed homes. It is known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainable practices.

MPB

MPB (Sub-Contractor) is a well-known company that specialises in rental fleets and provides critical services linked to concrete solutions. MPB contributes to numerous construction projects with abilities in concrete relations and fleet management, delivering efficient and dependable solutions for their clients.

OCL

OCL (Sub-Contractor) is a trusted company that specialises in facades, drylining, and recladding. With an emphasis on improving building exteriors, OCL plays an important part in construction projects, contributing to the aesthetics, functionality, and overall quality of structures. The company's skill in facades and recladding demonstrates a dedication to creating new solutions that match the changing needs of modern architecture.

RECO Hoist

RECO Hoist (Sub-Contractor) is a specialised company that rents out hoisting equipment, allowing for more effective vertical material transfer on building projects. RECO Hoist, with a focus on offering reliable and safe hoisting solutions, plays an important part in improving the logistical aspects of building projects. Their rental fleets contain cutting-edge hoisting technology built to match the demands of current construction, ensuring smooth and secure material transportation to various levels of a building under construction.

Tp Bennett

TP Bennett (Main Architect), a well-known architect firm with over 90 years of expertise, is known for its inventive and environmentally friendly design ideas. The organisation has earned a name for itself in a variety of industries, including commercial, residential, healthcare, and education. TP Bennett is known for its commitment to blending functionality and aesthetics in master planning, interior design, and urban design.

Squire & Partners

Squire and Partners (Main Architect), a famous architecture and design company with a four-decade history, is known for its inventive and sustainable designs. Their diversified portfolio includes residential, commercial, cultural, and hospitality projects that demonstrate a dedication to collaboration, creativity, and environmental awareness.

The coordination and interaction between the main contractor, Berkeley Homes Ltd, and the specialised subcontractors was satisfactory in my perspective. The ambiance on-site appears to be pleasant, with Berkeley LTD employees engaging with subcontractors and other teams effortlessly. The surroundings emerge a sense of calm and motivation. One prominent feature is the main contractor's equal treatment of subcontractors, which fosters a collaborative and united approach to the project.

Design

Rendered Computer Images taken from: tropg_weg-brochure-v24-final-aw.ashx

It is difficult to evaluate the evolution of the architectural vision from drawings to construction during the early stages of the building's actual design. Nonetheless, with the completion of the facade and the incorporation of frames, there appears to be an impressive likeness to the architect's designs with no obvious flaws. This alignment may be credited to the participation of many architects on-site, who ensured that the concept was accurately translated. In terms of general architecture, it can be described as a modern house building with a tall glass façade. While my personal preference is for more traditional architectural designs, observing the construction process has given me a broader appreciation for the complexities of modern structures. Despite initial doubts, the growing structure displays a well-executed modern design. The use of red bricks on the exteriors and the development of stunning scenery within the structures contribute to a cosy and luxurious interior, as portrayed in generated images

Progress seen in site visits

24th October 2023

15th November 2023

6 December 2023

The primary goal of the first site visit was to advance construction progress by finishing the reinforced concrete (RC) structure for Blocks G and H. This critical step created the framework that would support the structure's integrity in following stages of the project.

During the second site visit, significant progress was observed with the installation of SFS (Structural Framing System). This system plays a pivotal role in providing the framework for the facade. Subsequently, the installation of window frames can follow, along with the windows themselves. Once this process is complete, the construction achieves a watertight status, preventing external rain from infiltrating the building. In addition, the reinforced concrete (RC) frames were successfully completed in Block G, marking a crucial milestone. In Block H, only a small portion of the RC frame remained unfinished, with plans to conclude this segment by the upcoming Friday. This imminent completion would signify the overall achievement of the RC frames throughout the project.

In the third site visit, the meticulous process of removing the crane took place. This was especially challenging due to the limited space available. Additionally, during this phase, the RC framework in Block G was completed, and the installation of the glass facade began, marking significant progress in the construction process.

Sustainability

The Berkeley Group takes a forward-thinking approach to sustainability, aiming to develop houses and environments that meet current demands without jeopardising future generations' ability to meet their own. This dedication may be seen in their transformation of difficult and complex brownfield areas into sustainable and welcoming communities. The emphasis on renewing abandoned and underutilised land underlines their commitment to restoring community spaces while developing neighbourhoods with social, environmental, economic, and commercial value. The Berkeley Group is determined to reduce the long-term impacts of both their activities and the locations they develop, guided by a comprehensive Sustainability Strategy.

Operational Energy

West End Gate's direct business operations are now carbon neutral, achieving this milestone by procuring 100% renewable electricity in the UK. Recognized for their commitment, they received an A- rating for Climate Action and Transparency from CDP. In their journey towards net zero, they target carbon-intensive activities in their supply chain, actively seeking mitigation and adaptation solutions. Berkeley's climate action program outlines a path to becoming a net-zero carbon business by 2040, even though they haven't reached net-zero status. They focus on low-carbon construction sites, implementing efficiency measures and transitioning to biodiesel to replace gas oil.

Embodied Carbon

Berkeley was honoured with the Carbon Reduction Award at the National Sustainability Awards 2022. This award recognises Berkeley's comprehensive climate action policy, which focuses on reducing carbon emissions throughout its company and construction processes. While Berkeley has not yet achieved net-zero status, it remains committed to building low-carbon, resilient houses and actively seeks to reduce in-use lifetime carbon emissions. Their dedication extends to lowering the carbon footprint of the materials and services used in their projects.

Water Cycle

To promote responsible water usage, Berkeley incorporates recycling facilities and energy-efficient fittings into each building. Aside from net biodiversity increase, the company is dedicated to making measurable gains in water resources and flood resistance. Berkeley uses a holistic approach for environmental net gain as part of their medium-term goals (2023-2029), including water management, flood control, and air quality development.

Connectivity and transport

Berkeley prioritizes sustainable transportation practices, incorporating biodiesel HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) on 89% of construction sites in 2023. This alternative fuel has significantly reduced scope 1 emissions by 1,328 tCO2e compared to traditional diesel. In terms of public transport, the site boasts convenient accessibility, with a 1-minute walk to Edgware Road, an 11-minute walk to Paddington Station, and a 7-minute underground commute to Bond Street.

Life and Ecology

Land Use and Ecology play a pivotal role in Berkeley Group's business strategy, aligned with their Vision 2030. Natural landscapes are integral to their development sites, enhancing the areas they work in and fostering a direct connection between customers and future residents with nature. Berkeley prioritises biodiversity preservation and enhancement in their development approach, working with ecologists and landscape design professionals. Landscape architects are hired to create nature-rich habitats, ensuring a measurable net biodiversity gain. Partnerships with major conservation organisations such as The Wildlife Trusts demonstrate their dedication to establishing and managing nature-rich areas.

Health and Wellbeing

Berkeley, as a significant employer and successful company, supports thousands of employment each year, both directly and through its wide supply chain. Recognising the importance of its workers, the company prioritises employee development and assistance, recognising that their success is critical to the overall development process. Berkeley assures the achievement of its goals and fosters long-term success as a company by cultivating a creative and qualified team.

Communities and Social Value

Berkeley collaborates with local communities to develop distinctive, inclusive, and sustainable neighbourhoods that add long-term benefit to society. The company specialises in creating open, pedestrian-friendly environments that are enhanced with a custom blend of physical and social infrastructure. Berkeley actively engages the community in the co-design of sustainable places that connect with the area's particular character, fostering an enjoyable quality of life for people of all ages and backgrounds, through major engagement with local residents and partners. Furthermore, for larger sites, the company creates community plans that promote thriving communities and encourage active engagement in community life.

Life Cycle Value

Berkeley is a proud and successful FTSE100 company committed to long-term financial stability. By properly deploying capital, the company hopes to provide long-term returns to its shareholders while also producing value for other stakeholders. This dedication extends to the Berkeley Foundation's significant work.

Green Apple Environment Awards

Better Society Awards 2022: Transformation Award

National Sustainability Awards 2022: Carbon Reduction Award

Awards Won by Berkeley for Sustainability

Supporting the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals

Recommendations

While the project demonstrates commendable organization and provides a conducive environment for workers, there is room for further sustainability improvements. One area to consider is the minimization of concrete use, particularly reinforced concrete, which is extensively employed on the site. Reducing reliance on concrete aligns with sustainability goals, as concrete production has significant environmental impacts. Exploring alternative construction materials or methods that are more eco-friendly could be a valuable consideration.