The Brief
We were initially tasked with adapting French designs and drawings to meet UK building regulations. However, on closer inspection, we discovered a more complex situation. There was no clear implementation schedule, and coordination between trades, suppliers, and consultants was lacking. Our scope expanded to:
- Overseeing the show kitchen, additional kitchen and pantry spaces, the first-floor bakery, wine caves, and two bars, in addition to the main kitchen.
- Meticulously reviewing the design and build plans, identifying unique features like bespoke plinths, cantilevered cupboards, and specially sourced granite countertops.
- Establishing clear communication, coordinating with tradespeople, electrical contractors, and the main builders to develop detailed work programs and ensure seamless service integration.
- Fostering strong relationships with all parties involved, including the client’s chosen suppliers, ensuring everyone was aligned with project goals.
- Managing all deliveries, installations, and commissioning processes, guaranteeing a smooth and successful project completion.
Services
Commercial Kitchen Installation, Project Management
Location
Four Seasons Hotel London at Park Lane
Sector
Restaurants
Awards
ceda Grand Prix Awards 2024 – Project Management Excellence Finalist
About Pavyllon London
Four Seasons Hotel London and French three-star Michelin Chef Yannick Alleno had been in highly secure discussions to open his debut London restaurant, which would adopt the same name as his three Michelin-star restaurant in Paris, Pavyllon.
As one of the world’s finest chefs, holding 16 Michelin stars across his 17 restaurants around the globe, the restaurant would be Yannick Alléno’s first in the UK, bringing with it high expectations.
The restaurant “brings Chef Yannick’s refined neighbourhood dining style to London, offering a British expression of his signature modern French dishes”.
In addition to the restaurant seating, the restaurant features an open kitchen as its focal point, with counter-seating where guests can enjoy a Chef’s Table experience, as well as private dining room and 30-person al fresco terrace.
The restaurant is paired with Bar Antoine, a tribute to Chef Yannick’s late son, which is designed to be the perfect refuge in the heart of Mayfair.
The ultimate testament to the project’s success is Pavyllon securing a coveted Michelin star within a year of opening to critical acclaim.
The Solution
Upon project initiation, our team identified significant inconsistencies in the client-appointed consultant’s design. We bridged the gap to ensure a smooth workflow by meticulously reviewing and reconciling all drawings, rectifying inconsistencies before proceeding. By recognising the complexity of multiple disciplines involved, TAG developed a comprehensive Coordination Pack. This master document integrated M&E, fabrication, refrigeration, and ventilation drawings, providing a single source of truth for all subcontractors and stakeholders.
Our dedicated Project Manager structured communication channels by implementing regular, minuted weekly on-site project meetings, involving clients, key stakeholders, and trade representatives (up to 25 attendees). Additionally, frequent daily site meetings ensured clear communication regarding subcontractor schedules, maximizing efficiency, and enabling proactive problem-solving.
We implemented close on-site management and coordination of all trades and subcontractors. This flexible and fluid approach facilitated effective collaboration and rapid response to any challenges that arose.
TAG’s project management team adhered to rigorous documentation standards, issuing essential documents like Variation Logs, O&Ms, Commissioning Certificates, and Drawings. While the presence of multiple suppliers and subcontractors added complexity, we took control, and this insured the collation and proper incorporation of all relevant documentation was together.
The original scope of works was over double that originally planned. The revised scope now included the construction of the show kitchen, first-floor bakery, wine caves, two bars, and the pantry, plus finishes to all areas were upgraded including the show kitchen.
Efficient decision-making prevented schedule delays, and TAG developed a clear justification process for cost variations and actively facilitated prompt decision-making from stakeholders. This again saved costs and time.
By leveraging TAG’s in-house expertise, our own engineering team were used; in particular for the refrigeration works, a substantial part of the project, allowing direct control over costs, quality and preventing delays. We could be adaptable and fluid to changes to schedule/program.
All project changes and variations were meticulously documented in TAG’s centralized Variation Log. This facilitated clear communication with the client and key stakeholders, keeping them informed of any cost implications, always ensuring transparent communications.
Our flexibility and communications skills allowed us to adopt a highly adaptable approach to the project, exceeding the initial project scope by managing and installing the bespoke Molteni cook suite, ensuring complete client satisfaction.
TAG overcome operational challenges and the unprecedented complexity of working within a fully operational hotel, with both noise and working hour restrictions in place.
We delivered the project to client satisfaction, in time for the critical opening date.
The Outcome
The execution and standard of workmanship delivered by our very own team deserves recognition. We overcome all levels of difficulty across all areas of this project, particularly adapting to all the unforeseen complexities whilst remaining flexible throughout.
TAG went above and beyond the initial project completion by offering comprehensive after-sales service and care. Our dedicated team of highly trained, multi-skilled engineers have continued to provide ongoing prompt support, while a knowledgeable service desk takes calls and offers expert advice.
The ultimate testament to the project’s success is Pavyllon securing a coveted Michelin-star within a year of opening and that despite all the challenges and hurdles encountered TAG managed to deliver the project on time and to budget.
TAG were brought on board later than ideal. Also their initial contract with the client didn’t fully encompass everything we needed them to do. The TAG team adopted a reactive approach, constantly adapting to stay ahead of the challenges. They provided valuable specialist techniques and endless support, this included both their service and design team.
I was pleased with the exceptional responsiveness. This held true even after the project’s completion, as evidenced by TAG’s swift resolution of minor fridge problems that arose post-opening. This strong support system continued even after the project’s completion.
While Pavyllon presented its fair share of complexities due to its design, procurement, fast pace and oversight from Four Seasons, TAGs unwavering support and Colins dedication were instrumental in overcoming these hurdles. TAGs dedicated team, expertise and commitment can turn a challenging project into a successful one!
The passion and professionalism displayed by Martin, Tyron, Colin and the entire TAG team throughout the project was key in turning the project around. This experience has left a positive impression. I am already looking for ways to collaborate with TAG on future projects, confident that their commitment and skills will be valuable assets.
