<h2>The opportunity</h2>
To meet the September deadline, Alchemab appointed Buro Happold and KJ Tait to create a RIBA Stage 2 Concept design for the architectural and mechanical/electrical aspects of the project. Key elements of the project included: 
Timeline: Aimed for a September 2022 move-in, with design plans completed by the end of June.
Comprehensive refurbishment:<ul><li>Removal of old lab furniture and services.</li><li>New partitions for lab and meeting spaces.</li><li>HVAC upgrades for CL2 lab pressure controls.</li><li>Electrical updates to support lab equipment.</li></ul>
Enhanced staff facilities:<ul><li>Two kitchen areas.</li><li>Open conference space for up to 50 people.</li><li>New flooring, furnishings, and décor.</li></ul>
Safety and accessibility improvements:<ul><li>Firestopping and fire detection updates.</li><li>External upgrades for gas cylinder storage and drainage.</li><li>Added bike shelter and parking access.</li></ul><h2>Our approach </h2>
Initially, Alchemab had identified a preferred contractor with previous experience in the facility, but due to scheduling conflicts, they couldn’t proceed. Lexica quickly sourced alternative contractors and, after a thorough review, selected Cambridge Office Environments Ltd (COEL) to handle the role of main contractor and principal designer. 
Key steps in our approach included: <ul><li>Efficient contractor selection: Lexica’s selection process identified three qualified contractors, choosing COEL to handle the tight schedule.</li><li>Revised schedule: Due to long-lead items and design refinements, the completion date was shifted to mid-December, allowing a nine-week construction window.</li><li>Contract management: Lexica handled contract discussions, working with Alchemab’s legal team to finalise all terms. Construction began in October, and practical completion was achieved on schedule in December 2022.</li><li>Project completion: Alchemab was able to move in and begin commissioning equipment right after the holidays. </li></ul><h2>Our impact</h2>
Lexica’s role included contract administration, project coordination, and cost management. Key contributions involved: 
Contract Administration:<ul><li>Managing a JCT Design and Build contract.</li><li>Facilitating weekly meetings and design reviews.</li><li>Ensuring client approvals and handling variation instructions.</li></ul>
Cost Management Services<ul><li>Recommending contract types and preparing documentation.</li><li>Reviewing contract proposals and sums.</li><li>Managing payment notices and providing monthly cost reports.</li></ul>
Collaboration and Quality Delivery<ul><li>Lexica fostered collaboration between Alchemab and COEL, enabling quick decision-making.</li><li>Attended Project Principals Meetings to align project goals and expectations.</li></ul>
Through these efforts, Lexica delivered a high-quality refurbishment on time and within budget, enabling Alchemab to move into a fully equipped, compliant, and modern facility by the end of 2022. 
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Mark Halstead

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Alchemab Therapeutics, Lion Works, UK

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Lexica was approached by Alchemab Therapeutics to manage the refurbishment of an existing laboratory and office facility on the outskirts of Cambridge.

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Alchemab Therapeutics, Lion Works, UK

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