RLB UK has been appointed as both Project Managers and Quantity Surveyors on the iconic Barkers department store redevelopment in Kensington by Relsa Properties.
Plans by Emrys Architects were given planning permission by the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea last month for the art deco building, which is grade II listed and in a prime location on Kensington High Street.
The plans will reinvigorate the commercial space with a major overhaul. The refurbishment will include a new rooftop café for use by building occupants, full replacement and overhaul of the MEP systems, a new CAT A fit out throughout, new atrium glazing and feature bridges including a new Vierendeel Truss bridge, remodelling of the reception entrances and a new grand staircase added to the interior as well as new escalators and suspended walkways. There will also be cycle parking and gym facilities at basement level.
RLB Partner and Project Lead for the development, Anna Bohuszewicz comments,
“What a legendary building to be working on, in an amazing part of London. The building itself has a unique history that reflects both the area where it is located and the changing landscape of the retail and commercial sectors. We are excited to begin work on the scheme responsible for project management, cost management as well as lifecycle costing alongside Relsa Properties to evolve it into its former glory and shape it into its new incarnation.”
Joseph McNeil on behalf of Relsa Properties continues,
“The RLB team has experience and expertise to help us realise the exciting proposals outlined by Emrys Architects. Being able to both project manage as well as offering cost consultancy on the scheme gives the RLB team a unique overview that we felt was an ideal match for this project.”
The development starts in January 2023 with an estimated completion in 2025.
Photo Credit: Robert Graves at RGCGI
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