Decision details

To appoint Buckingham Interiors, who are part of the Furniture Resource Centre (FRC) Group, to carry out interior design and provision of furniture and flooring at Robert Harvey House, through the PFH (Procurement for Housing) Framework.

To refurbish the communal interior of Robert Harvey House to provide a modern and welcoming environment for the use of tenants.

We considered traditional procurement and obtained quotes from 3 interior design companies. This is a specialised area and it was very difficult to compare the quotes. The quote from Buckingham Interiors included a design element included in the furniture price. We consider that using Buckingham Interiors will be the most economically beneficial.

The alternative quotes were for an hourly rate which was hard to quantify and would have been on top of the cost of the furniture, flooring, delivery and fitting. Buckingham Interiors have given us firm costs including design. We do not foresee any additional work or changes to the costs but if there are changes these will be  quantifiable.

This is a pilot project and if successful will be rolled out to other Sheltered Housing Schemes within CBH. Using the framework ensures we have the best rates as there has been a rigorous procurement exercise and we can mobilise other schemes to be done quickly which will save CBH and CBC money and time.

We believe this work is necessary for the longevity and financial viability of CBC’s Sheltered Housing Schemes.

Support from CBH, EMT and SLT, and support from residents of the scheme.

Consultation has taken place with a working group of CBH officers to look at improving sheltered housing as a project. There is support from our Executive and Senior Leadership Team to improve the Sheltered Housing so it is fit for purpose for the future.

There has been consultation with Housing Support Officers and residents.  have been two coffee mornings held with residents prior to any works going ahead to get tenants feedback on what they want. Buckingham Interiors have presented ideas to the residents and they are supportive of the scheme that has been presented.