XLR8 Case Study

Private Homeowner Self-Build — High-End Residential Extension & Refurbishment

Shipbourne, Kent

Project Overview

XLR8 MEP Design Ltd was appointed to deliver full Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MEP) design services for the extension and complete refurbishment of a three-storey, seven-bedroom detached residence at Hookwood Farm, Shipbourne.

The project required a fully coordinated building services design to support a high-end residential outcome, while integrating new systems with elements of the existing installation.

Client Brief

The client required a clear, buildable and compliant MEP design to:

• Support a large-scale residential refurbishment and extension
• Integrate modern building services within an existing structure
• Enable accurate contractor pricing through a coordinated technical design
• Ensure compliance with current Building Regulations and planning requirements

Scope of Services

XLR8 MEP Design Ltd was appointed across pre-contract and construction stages, delivering:

Pre-Contract (RIBA Stage 2–4)

• Utility load calculations and supply applications
• Full MEP design calculations and system sizing
• Development of the MEP strategy aligned with Employer’s Requirements
• Production of Stage 4 coordinated technical drawings
• Detailed tender specifications for contractor pricing
• Review and technical assessment of tender returns

Construction Stage (RIBA Stage 5–7)

• Review of contractor working drawings
• Site inspections and progress monitoring
• Installation compliance checks against design intent
• Commissioning witnessing and review of certification

MEP Systems Designed

The project included a comprehensive building services design package covering:

• LTHW heating system and distribution
• Underfloor heating (coordinated with specialist contractor)
• Domestic water services
• Mechanical ventilation and air conditioning
• Above-ground drainage coordination
• Electrical power and lighting design
• Fire alarm, security, and data systems
• External power and lighting
• Full utility services coordination

Key Challenges

• Integrating new MEP systems within an existing building fabric
• Coordinating multiple services within constrained plant and ceiling spaces
• Aligning architectural intent with practical service routes and plant requirements
• Ensuring the design remained buildable, coordinated, and cost-aligned for tender

Our Approach

XLR8 adopted a structured, coordination-led design approach, focusing on:

• Early-stage utility and load assessments to reduce downstream risk
• Clear and practical plant layouts to support installation
• Fully coordinated Stage 4 drawings to minimise clashes on site
• Providing contractors with accurate, tender-ready information
• Maintaining close alignment with the client and design team throughout

Outcome

The project benefited from a clear, well-defined MEP design package that:

• Enabled accurate contractor pricing at tender stage
• Reduced risk of design clashes during construction
• Supported compliance with Building Regulations
• Provided a structured pathway from concept through to installation and commissioning

Project Value

This project reflects XLR8’s core capability:

Delivering coordinated, buildable MEP design for high-end residential projects — combining technical rigour with practical delivery.

Looking to Deliver a Similar Project?

Whether you are undertaking a self-build, extension, or full residential redevelopment, XLR8 MEP Design Ltd provides clear, structured engineering support from concept through to completion.

Contact us to discuss your project

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