Dolphin Square in Westminster, London, UK

We were appointed as Cost Manager, CDM Advisor, and Principal Designer for the extensive restoration of 372 apartments and common facilities at Dolphin Square, a landmark residential development in London. Our multidisciplinary role spanned cost management, environmental consultancy, health and safety, mechanical and electrical, and technical due diligence services, ensuring a seamless and integrated project delivery.

Phase 1 Cost Management

We played a pivotal role in shaping the procurement strategy as Cost Managers for Phase 1 restoration. A bespoke two-stage procurement process was developed to secure the best market price for this unique project.

We collaborated with the design team and undertook option studies and refined the design to achieve optimal value. A targeted soft market testing exercise identified cost-effective solutions for recurring items such as white goods, kitchens, and sanitaryware.

We led a detailed review of the tender returns, ensuring the best-value submission by balancing cost, capability, and experience. Post-contract, we overcame significant challenges caused by unforeseen issues e.g. asbestos and inadequate fire protection, which resulted in numerous changes to the design and scope of work.

However, through robust cost control and analysis of costs at sub-contractor and main contractor levels, we were able to accurately manage, control, and report on costs throughout the post-contract period. Transparent and effective communication throughout the project was crucial to ensure the client and project team were fully appraised of the cost position at all times.  This included regular client cost meetings and creation of a bespoke cost report document to give the client the information they required in a format that worked for them.

Environmental, Health and Safety

We conducted an Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) due diligence assessment to identify potential liabilities. This addressed soil and groundwater contamination, environmental compliance, and health and safety management, enabling the client to make informed decisions about the development.

As Principal Designer and CDM Advisor, we ensured compliance with health and safety legislation during Phase 1 and additional project instructions, including Services Diversions, KPH Strip Out, Leisure Package 1 and 2, Tennis Courts and the Thames Water Connection. Through regular site inspections, the creation of a contractor’s site manual, and effective design risk management, we upheld the client’s safety vision and policies.

Our efforts were recognised through our Association for Project Safety (APS) corporate membership and backed up by the exemplary practices demonstrated on this project, such as ensuring proper water safety during the Thames Water connection package, this was achieved by addressing contamination concerns with proactive design interventions.

Preconstruction expertise

Our project knowledge was exemplified during pre-construction, as demonstrated by our work on the Thames Water connection package.

A prior investigation revealed specific pipe requirements due to contaminants, which we flagged to ensure the specification met safety standards. This approach ensured that we prioritised water safety.

Tight pre-construction timelines were met with urgency and precision, through detailed design reviews that facilitated thorough risk assessments. Our in-depth understanding of the site’s unique challenges allowed us to deliver tailored solutions, ensuring a smooth transition from pre-construction to active work.

Construction inspections

Our health and safety team performed rigorous inspections during the construction phase, touring all site levels to identify risks and uphold safety standards. Inspection reports were reviewed and refined internally, allowing continuous improvement and knowledge sharing across the team.

We also conducted contractor safety inspections, ensuring extensive issue tracking and follow-up on identified risks. This multi-layered safety approach highlighted our commitment to effectively and collaboratively address the severity of potential risks and hazards. Our regular site inspections with the contractor helped maintain a very safe site.

Handover and documentation review

The handover phase was underpinned by thorough documentation reviews, confirming all design and material details were accurately recorded. Understanding the importance of the health and safety file for future works, we prioritised clarity and usability throughout the project.

For example, during the services diversion package, we identified missing service isolation certificates, promptly addressing the oversight, and improving documentation practices. Our attention to detail ensured that Dolphin Square’s maintenance and engineering team received high-quality handover materials, supporting long-term safety and operational efficiency.

Throughout the restoration of Dolphin Square, Hollis’ project team demonstrated a firm, collaborative, and value-driven approach. By challenging design solutions, upholding diligent safety standards, and prioritising cost efficiency, we successfully delivered a complex project that ensures the long-term functionality and safety of this landmark residential development.