Leading property developer Minerva plc has moved its head office into its latest development, at Wigmore Street, built by Skanska.
The four-storey development next to the world famous Wigmore Hall concert venue is a mixture of new build and retained façade providing modern offices and retail units. It replaced a building derelict for ten years.
Skanska project manager Brian Nunn said, “We have a good track-record in retained façade buildings projects, but there were other challenges, including operating on a tight site next to a venue renowned for classical music concerts, with some broadcast live on Radio Three. Keeping our noise to a minimum was an important requirement.”
One major solution was a unique temporary soundproof roof designed by Skanska which ensured construction noise did not interfere with the music, particularly the classical concerts broadcast live. The roof was praised by Wigmore Hall as “very effective”.
The company also stopped work at lunchtime to ensure concerts were not disturbed.
Minerva’s Cliff Dare, explaining the reason for locating the head office at the back of the new development, said “It was perfect for our needs. The location is ideal and the high quality development provides us with state-of-the-art facilities and meeting rooms.” Further office and retail space will be let at the front of the development.
Skanska is also nearing completion of another large office building for Minerva at High Holburn, which will be occupied by law firm Olswang.