Collective Pilates – London

Role: Registered Building Control Approver (RBCA)

Project Overview

Salus was appointed as Registered Building Control Approver (RBCA) for the fit-out of a new Collective Pilates studio within the Lessing Building at West Hampstead Square, London.

The project involved transforming a shell retail unit into a fully operational Pilates studio, including studio space, reception and supporting facilities.

While the scope appeared straightforward, the unit formed part of a larger high-risk residential building (HRRB), introducing additional regulatory considerations that required careful management.

Salus’ Role

Salus was engaged by delivery partner Layrd, who required a Building Control provider capable of supporting projects across multiple locations with a consistent and reliable approach.

The Salus team:

Submitted and managed the Initial Notice with the local authority
Undertook plan review to assess compliance with Building Regulations
Reviewed site inspections carried out during the construction phase
Ensured the works remained compliant within the context of the wider building

Project oversight was led by Andrew Dean, supported by Site Inspector Ken Eaton, alongside input from senior technical colleagues across the business.

Navigating a High-Risk Building Context

Although the internal fit-out was relatively straightforward, the project required careful consideration due to its location within a High-Risk Residential Building (HRRB).

This introduced additional complexity in ensuring:

The project could be appropriately managed outside of the Building Safety Regulator route
The local authority was satisfied with Salus’ role and responsibilities
All statutory processes were followed correctly before works commenced

Salus worked closely with the local authority to demonstrate compliance and confirm the appropriate approval route, ensuring the project could proceed with confidence.

Protecting the Integrity of the Building

A key focus throughout the project was ensuring that the fit-out works did not compromise the performance of the existing building.

This included careful review of:

Fire separation lines within the shell structure
The routing of services such as ventilation and drainage
The overall impact of internal alterations on the building’s fire strategy

By maintaining a clear and consistent approach, Salus ensured that the new studio operated compliantly without adversely affecting the wider building.

The Value Behind the Process

While the completed project may appear straightforward, much of the value delivered by Salus took place behind the scenes.

The team navigated complex regulatory requirements, engaged with multiple stakeholders and ensured that all decisions were:

Properly considered
Clearly documented
Fully aligned with current legislation and guidance

This approach provided assurance to both the client and the wider project team that the scheme was compliant and robust.

Outcome

Following the successful navigation of statutory requirements and detailed compliance checks, the project progressed smoothly through to completion.

By addressing key regulatory considerations early and maintaining a structured, collaborative approach, Salus enabled the project team to deliver the scheme efficiently within a complex regulatory environment.

Why Salus

This project highlights Salus’ ability to apply technical expertise and sound judgement to projects of all scales.

Even on relatively small fit-out schemes, Salus brings: