Finalist |
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Category: Residential 4 storeys and over |
That this development never fulfilled its undoubted potential to be catastrophically problematic is largely thanks to Bob Warren. Instead, he led a simple, hugely enjoyable and very successful project by bringing to bear outstanding communication skills and a masterly analysis of complex logistical problems.
The complexity of the project meant that everything turned on logistics. Bob had to demolish add-on and unsafe structures, reclaim materials for rebuild, refurbish existing buildings and construct extra storeys and an infill block. He immediately got stuck into methods and programmes, which proved of immense value when site work got under way.
Aware that hidden unknowns can surface disastrously in refurb projects, he also organised comprehensive surveys of the buildings, creating a pool of knowledge that focused the team on the areas needing attention.
Although the building wasn't listed, Bob initiated an early dialogue with the local planning officer to build trust in the project goal of exceptional finished quality. This relationship helped win rapid planning acceptance when it later became clear that an unsafe link block had to be demolished, and again when the client decided to build another 54 apartments instead of the hotel originally specified.
Pivotal in the early stages, Bob quickly gained the trust and respect of the design team with his proactive and progressive approach. He organised weekly workshops to develop the design, encouraging participants to be open and trust each other. Bob's non-contractual stance helped develop collaboration and a can-do confidence that quickly spread.
Bob appointed experienced staff to key positions to emphasise a right first time philosophy and to oversee the systematic inspection of each work item as activities progressed. He also encouraged the gradual increase in responsibilities for new recruits and graduate placements as their confidence and experience grew. He made a point of forming a relationship with every subcontractor's foreman to help solve problems quickly and to communicate his requirements.
Bob dealt with this large complex project in the calm, professional and confident manner of the born leader. It is rare to find enthusiasm allied to experience so whole-heartedly, and in this project it proved a winning combination.
