We also provided services in sustainability, energy, BREEAM, vertical transportation (VT) and IT\/AV to support the building\u2019s redevelopment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
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The OWO: a historic landmark reimagined <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Situated on the site of the former Palace of Whitehall, this was a highly complex project due to its scale, conservation area restrictions and the need to sensitively restore and preserve historic interiors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The OWO, as it is now known, contains 120 luxury bedrooms and suites, nine restaurants, three bars, and 85 Raffles-branded private residences. As part of the conversion, a three-storey rooftop extension increased the size of the already colossal structure by 31 per cent. Plus, four new basement levels were added to accommodate a 600-person subterranean ballroom, spa, swimming pool and kitchens. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
We collaborated with EPR Architects and 41 other sub-consultancies to ensure the modern amenities and services were in keeping with the building\u2019s original Baroque features. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our approach has been to service the building as a whole \u2013 with dedicated systems for each part (both the hotel and high-end residences) where possible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"The](\"https:\/\/aecom.com\/content\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/The-OWO-at-Christmas-\u00a9-EPR-Architects-2-3-1-1024x655.jpg\")
Digital coordination, seamless collaboration <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
To aid coordination during this major services refit, the whole project team worked in Autodesk Revit 3D building information modelling (BIM) software, which contains more than 1 million design elements \u2013 400,000 of which are related to mechanical and electrical services. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before this model was available, we worked with a survey model containing digital scans of the entire building. This was supplemented by digital general arrangement (GA) drawings with embedded photographs, which meant our specialists could click on a GA to reveal a photo of a specific element at any time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
On-site discoveries were still made, however. For example, when part of the ceiling was removed, a series of WWII-era reinforcement beams were exposed which meant we had to reroute services around them. Therefore, it was the combination of both digital tools and physical inspections that made this project a success. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Solving complex project challenges <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
One of the biggest challenges was routing building services from the basement to the hotel\u2019s upper levels while avoiding listed rooms on the ground floor. To navigate this, our team made use of the \u2018moat\u2019 \u2013 an existing underground corridor encircling the entire building \u2013 to effectively distribute services. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Additionally, as the largest guest suites that now occupy the former war rooms had listed wood-panelled walls, the panelling had to be carefully removed to accommodate fan coil units. These were installed discreetly behind period-style grilles. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Due to the building\u2019s listed status, finding suitable locations for equipment was challenging. Every corner of the building was used, as placing large equipment on the roof was not permitted and careful coordination of service distribution was essential. <\/p>\n\n\n\n We\u2019re proud to have played a key role in this major renovation of the Old War Office, which is shortlisted in the Retrofit Project of the Year award at the 2024 Building Awards. <\/p><\/blockquote><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Upgrading the sustainability credentials of a Grade II listed building was no easy feat. From the outset, restrictions on materials and the need to maintain listed features <\/strong>also required meticulous planning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The building\u2019s high thermal mass plays a key role in its energy efficiency by maintaining consistent heating and cooling, thereby reducing temperature fluctuations. Additionally, a state-of-the-art building management system (BMS) has been installed, enabling operators to accurately monitor energy consumption and make adaptations instantly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n We also ensured that the building is prepared for future connection to district heating, which will further enhance its energy performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Throughout the seven-year construction period, we adapted to legislative changes and improvements in the hotel operator\u2019s brand standards. For example, we added electric vehicle charging points to the residents\u2019 parking areas to meet the growing demand for car charging infrastructure. <\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\nEnhancing energy efficiency and environmental sustainability <\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Proud nominee of the 2024 Retrofit Project of the Year <\/h2>\n\n\n\n