British Embassy Paris and Residence — Building and Services Reorganisation.

Descriptions

This project originated from the health and safety requirement to replace the electrical wiring within the British Embassy Chancery, Residence and Gatehouses in Paris.These buildings are based in a fashionable location in central Paris and are exceptionally important and grand buildings. The Ambassador's Residence building dates from the early 18th Century, and is an extremely important building in both French and British History. It is a stone built 3 storey residence (with basement), and on the ground floor has two large garden wings containing a ceremonial Ballroom and Dining Room, connected by a glazed Gallery. It is built in the Empire style and the building's fabric and furnishings are of national importance. The works to the Residence and Gatehouses is to replace the electrical distribution and small power services throughout including replacing distribution boards and fire alarm system replacement, these works will require specialist care to protect fine interiors during the project execution.The Chancery building is also of historic importance and has several areas which will require particular attention to complete the works with the minimal disruption to the historic finishes. This project aims to improve the health and safety of the building as well as improving the overall flexibility and working environment within the Chancery building by providing more open plan space and improved facilities. Works to the Chancery building includes the electrical distribution and small power services being rewired. Internal and external lighting will be replaced. Modifications will be made to the fire alarm and data cabling where room layouts are altered. The existing access arrangements will be reconfigured and the main reception will be refurbished. There will also be structural works associated with the reconfiguration of areas and the provision or more open plan working spaces.Both buildings will remain operational throughout the duration of the project therefore detailed phasing strategies and decant plans have been developed.The buildings are large in footprint with the Embassy's GIA totalling approximately 7 900 m² over Basement to Fourth Floors, and the Residence and Gatehouse's GIA totalling 4 800 m² over Basement to Third Floors.The works are to contracted upon the NEC3 Option A form of contract.