Masonic Charitable Foundation

Delivering A Complex Listed Building Refurbishment On Time & Within Budget

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…I was very impressed with their (Aura’s) attention to the client’s money, professionalism and way of conduct. Aura achieved the delivery of the refurbishment of a listed building on time and on budget. Neil and his team have been working together for a long time and their sense of loyalty is almost immediately passed onto the Client.

Raluca Tsakiris (Head of Property at MCF)

Spec

Brief

The Masonic Charitable Foundation (MCF) appointed Aura Consulting to take over the management of their CAT A & B refurbishment at 31 Great Queen Street, a Grade II listed property.

Aura replaced a large corporate project management firm that was not providing the level of attention or expertise required, leading to delays and client dissatisfaction.

The project aimed to enhance investment potential, improve energy efficiency, and modernize tenant amenities while preserving the building’s historic character.

Challenges

Recovering a Delayed & Disjointed Project – With the project already behind schedule and lacking clear documentation, Aura quickly established control, built relationships with key stakeholders, and realigned delivery plans.

Heritage Restoration & Structural Complexities – The building featured original parquet flooring on a bitumen base, requiring piece-by-piece removal and careful reinstatement. Additionally, the discovery of dilapidated areas meant continuous scope adjustments.

Budget Control in a Live Project – The evolving restoration needs required a commercial strategy that allowed for unexpected costs while maintaining overall financial discipline.

Highlights

Delivered on Time & Within Budget – Despite the initial setbacks, Aura’s structured project management approach ensured successful completion within the agreed timeline and financial constraints.

Preservation of Historic Features – The original parquet flooring was carefully lifted, numbered, stored, and reinstated. Decorative ceilings, ironwork, and marble staircases were restored to retain the building’s character.

Modernization for Future Tenants – The project introduced new end-of-trip facilities, including showers, lockers, and cycle storage, increasing the building’s appeal to high-quality occupiers.

Seamless Integration of New Services – Modern MEP upgrades, including HVAC and lighting, were concealed within joinery to maintain the period aesthetic while improving operational efficiency.

Sustainable Approach & Material Reuse – Historic timber panelling was repurposed into bespoke WC joinery, reducing waste while preserving the building’s heritage.

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