GSK House

The delivery of the flagship headquarters for GlaxoSmithKline set a new benchmark for speed and innovation. Comprising four five-storey buildings and a 16-storey tower linked by an internal street, the one million square foot development accommodates 3,000 employees and was completed in just 30 months from concept to completion. It was originally conceived as a fixed price project but the very short programme better suited a construction management offer that enabled Mace to achieve completion early and for £60m less than the tendered fixed price cost.

The shell construction and fit out programmes were planned with a significant overlap, achieving considerable savings in both time and cost. Innovations such as an on-site reprographics facility, digital communications and a fully integrated IT network helped set new benchmarks in construction methods. The striking façade was created through the use of different combinations of stone and glass, while sustainability features including soundproofing significantly reduced traffic noise from the adjacent M4 motorway. The project scope also included enhancement works to the River Brent and Grand Union Canal. The design and construction management teams and trade contractors were co-located on a site that was operational 24 hours a day through close liaison with the local authority and community groups, and was instrumental in speeding up the design to construction process. Crucial to the success of the project was an enlightened client that allowed the project team to implement key innovations that have since made an impact on the industry.