Project Management

In 2024, Hollis was appointed as Project Manager and Employer’s Agent by Karrev Property to oversee the extensive refurbishment and fit-out of Sunlight House, a 14-storey, Grade II-listed Art Deco landmark in the heart of Manchester.

Hollis’ role spanned RIBA Stages 2 through 5, delivering 160,000 sq ft of Grade A, CAT A and CAT B office space with a clear brief to respect the heritage, deliver to modern standards and keep the building operational throughout.

Since completion in October 2025, 64,000 sq ft of the Sunlight House space is now let, with tenants including the Crown Prosecution Service and PINS Social Club.

A landmark restoration with modern ambition 
Originally completed in 1932 and previously the tallest building in Manchester, the Art Deco Sunlight House sits in the heart of the Spinningfields business and financial district. Hollis’ challenge was to lead the transformation of this iconic building, while preserving its character and keeping it operational for existing tenants throughout.

The works covered the entire building, from basement to rooftop, and included new WC facilities, MEP installations, lift replacements, gym, health and wellness studio, showers and cycle storage, roof refurbishment and extensive façade and sash window repairs.

The upper floors were fully refurbished, with a mix of new raised access flooring and the sensitive restoration of original parquet floors, carefully balancing functionality and conservation. At ground level, Hollis led the redesign and delivery of a striking new reception space, bringing a modern, hospitality-led feel to a historically significant structure.

Embedding sustainability and ESG 
A key driver for the client was environmental performance. Hollis embedded ESG objectives into every stage of the project, targeting BREEAM Excellent, a NABERS 4.5 rating and achieving an EPC B rating, a significant achievement for a building of this age.

Throughout the refurbishment, particular care was taken at every stage to ensure the building’s historic character remained uncompromised. All interventions were approached with sensitivity to the original fabric and appearance. A notable example is the installation of a photovoltaic (PV) array at roof level. This system was deliberately positioned within the pitched roof of the internal courtyard, ensuring that it did not detract from or visually impact the external façade of this Grade II-listed landmark.

As part of the drive to modernise the building’s energy use and sustainability credentials, the existing gas supply was entirely removed. In its place, an electrically driven heat pump system, utilising variable refrigerant flow (VRF) technology, was introduced. This system provides efficient, low-carbon heating, aligning with both the client’s environmental goals and the requirements of a modern workspace, while respecting the building’s heritage.

By repurposing over 200,000 sq ft of existing space, the project avoided the considerable environmental impact of new construction.

Hollis’ team worked alongside design and sustainability consultants to ensure that modern building services could be integrated without compromising the heritage of the property. The retrofit has delivered exceptional workspaces, providing tenants with 100% green energy.

Blending timeless glamour with modern convenience 
The stunning Art Deco-inspired interiors blend timeless glamour with modern convenience, providing calm and uplifting spaces for creativity, collaboration and concentration.

The refurbishment includes sumptuous circular rotunda meeting spaces at 13th floor level with far reaching views across the city and a beautiful light-filled atrium, bringing this historic landmark into the 21st century while retaining the character and integrity of the building.

With ample daylight provided via substantial glazing, the building truly lives up to its name of Sunlight House. 

Technical issues and challenges overcome

Manchester City Council issued planning permission for the Sunlight House refurbishment to Karrev’s developer partner Kinrise in July 2023. However, when Kinrise left the project in early 2024, Hollis stepped in as Project Manager/Employer’s Agent to see the project through to completion, covering RIBA Stages 2 through to 5. The project required deep technical leadership to navigate significant design, legal, and delivery challenges, ultimately safeguarding the building’s future and the client’s commercial objectives.

Taking on the project during RIBA stage 4 meant Hollis had to quickly act to ensure that risks were mitigated and the project was completed successfully.

Mitigating commercial risk 
Hollis established secure commercial and contractual oversight, including detailed sectional completion dates to protect the client from potential exposure to delay and cost claims. Hollis undertook a full commercial audit of claims and established enhanced contractor reporting and a recovery plan to address performance issues.

Meanwhile, there was incomplete design information and a lack of coordinated MEP solutions, further adding potential risk to the project costs and timescales. Hollis acted quickly to address these risks, introducing forensic weekly MEP reviews and a re-baselined programme.

Hollis’ leadership, technical intervention and hands-on management provided clarity and discipline across the entire project team.

Hollis also implemented a detailed time-recording system to provide a robust audit trail to protect against unjustified contractor claims. The team provided transparent reporting for funders and stakeholders and ensured early identification of compliance risks.

A complex heritage refurbishment with a commercial edge 
As the building was Grade II* listed, Hollis had to take a highly sensitive approach to the refurbishment. There was limited access behind the original finishes, and the team had to maintain the building’s façade while also meeting modern performance standards. All new MEP systems were installed without disturbing heritage elements.

Hollis facilitated collaboration between key stakeholders, local authority, heritage officers, planners, designers, occupiers, and the contractor team to unlock challenging design elements, such as window restorations and terracotta façade repairs, while maintaining cost and programme targets.

Careful coordination and communication 
One of the biggest challenges was delivering a complex, high-value programme while existing tenants still occupied the building. Hollis developed and implemented a detailed phasing and sequencing plan to minimise disruption for tenants and ensure safety across the site. In addition, some works were undertaken out-of-hours to further minimise disruption.

Close coordination between contractors, occupiers, and consultants was critical to maintaining momentum and communication. Contractor MYCO recognised the exceptional commitment and technical skills provided by Hollis, including rapid turnaround of technical queries, clear, confident advice in moments of commercial pressure and an ability to take ownership of issues beyond the original appointment.

Hollis’ leadership prevented unnecessary cost exposure, incorrect extension-of-time claims, risk of latent defects and disputes escalating into formal proceedings.

Hollis has delivered a commercially protected and enhanced asset for the client. The result is a future-proofed building with enhanced safety and compliance, improved operational efficiency and upgraded building services – with modern accommodation provided while respecting the building’s heritage.

Client testimonial

“The transformation of Sunlight House has had a profound impact on the way our teams and occupiers use the building. The enhanced workplace environment - from the improved sustainability performance to the quality of the refurbished office floors and shared amenities - has materially strengthened the building’s appeal and functionality. With the building now partially occupied and further tenant fit outs due to commence imminently, we are already seeing the benefits of a modern, efficient, and desirable workspace. This investment has not only protected an iconic heritage asset, it has also created a commercially resilient environment” ~ Karrev, our client

We are thrilled to have assisted our valued client, DTZ Investors, in successfully completing a comprehensive, sustainable refurbishment of an industrial unit in Trafford Park, Greater Manchester. 

We provided project management and contract administration services as well as photovoltaic consultancy for the installation of a 73 KWP roof-mounted photovoltaic system. The new sustainable installation will produce 61,001 KWh of renewable energy annually, saving 8,289kg of carbon emissions per year and reducing energy bills for the future tenant by an average of 40%. 

Energy-efficient internal renovation  

A full landlord refurbishment was completed for the interior, which included a fully refurbished office space over two floors, WCs and passenger lift. The warehouse has been modernised to include new energy-efficient LED lighting together with presence detection and new electrical distribution hardware. Additionally, a full package of redecoration works were completed including the walls, structural frame and floor slab. 

The installation of new electric panel heaters, a VRF heating and cooling system in the office areas, and LED lighting throughout the property has resulted in the EPC rating improving from B to A+. This means it is now operating at net zero in accordance with DTZ Investors’ net zero carbon framework. 

Adding finishing touches  

In this prime urban industrial location, the roof of the warehouse has received substantial renovation, which consists of new gutter linings and cutting-edge corrosion treatment to all roof sheets. The elevations have been restoratively cleaned and decorated to provide a clean, new-looking aesthetic. 

The service yard has new LED lighting installed and 2 no. twin electric vehicle charging stations. Additionally, servicing and maintenance have been undertaken for the electronic vehicle barrier and hydraulic retractable vehicle bollards, ensuring comprehensive security for the service yard. 

The property has now been successfully let to a new tenant, reinforcing the demand for high-quality, sustainable industrial and logistical space within the Trafford Park area.

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.

We successfully delivered a beautiful new office for Taylor Wessing in Liverpool, project managing a Cat B office fit-out that has achieved a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating for sustainability. We also provided pre-lease due diligence, M&E engineering and ESG consultancy advice as well acting as CDM Principal Designer.

Keen for a presence in the North, international law firm Taylor Wessing chose Edward Pavilion, a Grade I Listed building in a UNESCO World Heritage site at Liverpool’s Royal Albert Dock, as its new home in this vibrant and flourishing city.

Delivering this project on the top floor of a Grade I Listed former warehouse building for a client with incredibly high standards during a global pandemic was a huge challenge. We overcame technical concerns around acoustics and natural light, along with the constraints brought about by the listed status of the building: the method of any new fixings into the existing structure, for example, had to be pre-approved by the conservation officer, which required careful time management and forward-planning.

With other works being undertaken simultaneously elsewhere in the building, ensuring full compliance with CDM regulations and other health and safety legislation was paramount – particularly in terms of creating a COVID-secure environment without adversely affecting the programme or budget from any reductions in manpower.

The decision to target a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ sustainability rating for the fit-out was made after the commencement of the project, so we worked quickly to adapt the design and specifications of fabric and mechanical and electrical elements to deliver the performance required. By drawing on advice from our in-house M&E experts and working in true partnership, the project team was able to deliver the changes required, all whilst keeping the project on programme and budget.

Innovations in design came from the unique use of photographic portraits around the space in the form of impactful, full-height images laser-printed onto acoustic insulating canvases, which was related to the client’s sponsorship. The layout and flow of the space were based on the principles of navigating an art gallery, so while the space works functionally, users also have a ‘journey of discovery’ as they travel through the environment.

With varying work spaces, including formal desks, meetings booths, casual meeting areas and spaces for quiet work, the new office provides a flexible and agile working environment for the Taylor Wessing team, who can choose to work in the best way for them. In addition, break out areas have provided an environment which is much more conducive to collaboration and the flexible future of office working.

This project was Winner of 'Fit-out/Refurbishment of the Year' at Insider Liverpool City Region Property Awards 2021 & BCO Awards 2022.

Our Project Management team managed and delivered the sustainable rebuild of a 31,633 sq ft industrial unit following significant fire damage, including management of the demolition phase, design, rebuild and coordination of planning approval, BREEAM/sustainability initiatives and statutory suppliers.

The key features of the building and sustainable features implemented were as follows:

• Photovoltaic panels installed to the roof, providing electricity to the premises and any excess back into the network grid whilst also supplementing the EV charging provision. Industry leading SunPower panels were installed with intelligent monitoring enabling comprehensive data about the energy produced, which is fed into a real time App for review.
• Electric vehicle charging points for employee and visitor use.
• Airlite decoration was used on all wall surfaces, developed to improve air quality, eliminating bacteria and prevents the formation of mould. It drastically reduces the amount of solar heat absorbed by buildings, thereby reducing air-conditioning energy costs up to 30% and lowering the associated CO2 emissions.
• Water saving features including rainwater harvesting (including external taps used for irrigation of the new landscaping), leak detection systems and low water usage sanitaryware and shower facilities.
• Installation of biodiverse landscaping following specialist Ecology consultant review and advice. The specified landscaping includes flowering to encourage wildlife and pollinators, wildflower seeding, wildlife hibernacula’s and bird boxes.
• Secure bicycle parking to encourage employees to cycle to work instead of driving the cycle shelter includes a rich biodiverse growing roof and wildlife habitat panels. Low maintenance, drought-tolerant planting is nectar-rich for butterflies, bees, moths and other invertebrate wildlife.
• External amenity areas with timber benching set within the landscaped areas.
• Hybrid VRF air conditioning with heat recovery to office areas.
• CO2 sensors integrated into the MVHR to control fresh air supply and BMS controls for building services.
• Sub-metering of all electrical systems.
• New energy efficient LED light fittings including daylight sensors throughout warehouse and office areas.
• Equality Act and BREEAM compliant passenger lift integrated within the main reception area.
• Real time information system installed to reception, used to show public transport information.
• Enhanced building fabric materials selected for increased thermal performance.
• Use of recycled fabric elements, such as carpet floor coverings.
• Installation of Kingspan “daylite klick” translucent panels to the warehouse envelope to increase natural daylight into the warehouse and decreased reliance on artificial lighting.

Key to the brief was to achieve a high quality, high specification build, whilst targeting aspirations for refurbishment and new build developments. Both were ultimately achieved, with an EPC rating of A+.

The project consisted of the fit-out of a listed building on the canals in Amsterdam (Herengracht) to create a new global headquarters for Karl Lagerfeld. The developer, Millten, delivered the base build works and the fit-out works were directly procured by the client Karl Lagerfeld in individual packages. We were appointed by Karl Lagerfeld to deliver a full suite of Project Management and Cost Management services.

We were responsible for the strategy of the project delivery as well as the procurement of the contractors being directly appointed. We worked closely to integrate our services with the developer, working together in order to avoid failure costs caused by design changes between base build and fit-out. By carrying out the procurement using a packaged approach, we created cost and time savings for this fast-paced project.

We were appointed to project manage the extensive refurbishment of Angel House - an occupied early 1900s office - restoring the building’s original fabric to create fully serviced, studio-style office accommodation across two floors. Alongside this, we delivered full pre-and-post-contract cost management.

Following a detailed cost verification exercise, we negotiated with the contractor, benchmarking against comparable projects within the building to ensure value for money. Robust change management processes were established, ensuring all variations were properly assessed, costed, approved and transparently reported throughout.

Post-contract, our clear and disciplined cost management approach enabled accurate and timely valuations, giving the client complete financial visibility. As a result, the final account was agreed efficiently, with no surprises.