RAFFLES AT THE OWO
The former Old War Office building in Whitehall, which once served as the headquarters for statesmen including Winston Churchill and which was the inspiration for writer Ian Fleming to pen his James Bond spy novels, has opened this summer as The OWO. Situated at one of London’s most historically important and powerful addresses, the Grade II*-listed building has undergone a grand transformation and is home to 9 destination restaurants and three bars, a 120-room Raffles London at The OWO, and 85 Raffles branded residences.
This autumn, The OWO was reborn as a new culinary epicentre for the capital. Transformed through years of meticulous restoration, the former Grade II* listed Old War Office building on Whitehall is home to an impressive nine new restaurants and three bars.
OUR WORK
This project was undertook during the construction phase of the building, and so the client provided Vision with pre-existing kitchen designs. The brief involved supplying and installing equipment for the nine restaurants and three bars situated within The OWO. Led by world-renowned chefs and restaurateurs, each of The OWO’s dining spaces and bars showcase an unrivalled selection of international cuisines and dining experiences. From early morning power breakfasts and lunches with the political elite to glamorous evening rendezvous, this monumental building will celebrate a new chapter as a bustling culinary hub in the heart of Whitehall, unlike anywhere else in London.
OUR WORK
Given the project's location in a listed building, Vision placed utmost importance on preserving and respecting the prestigious structure during the process. The historical significance and size of the building underscored the necessity for precision in addressing details such as ceiling height variations and ductwork routes throughout the architectural process, ensuring a seamless installation.
While the kitchens were designed prior to Vision's involvement in the project, adjustments were made during the equipment installation to align with the client's requirements and specifications. Despite the predetermined designs, Vision implemented sustainable modifications to better meet the project's needs.
This project, set in a monumental building, was of a prestigious nature, and Vision takes great pride in having been involved. Despite encountering challenges, the project concluded as a great success. Vision fostered strong working relationships with all stakeholders, achieved seamless installation, and upheld the luxurious standards of the building.
TESTIMONIALS
“Ardmore were the main contractor on site at The OWO. From the initial consultation to the completion of the project, the Vision team demonstrated outstanding professionalism and dedication. Communication throughout the project was transparent and consistent, with the team readily accessible to address any challenges that arose. We were able to collaborate efficiently to see-through a great project and fostered a valuable working relationship.”
Colm Gallagher, Construction Director, Ardmore Group
“Vision Commercial Kitchens were appointed as the catering contractor for the prestigious landmark, Old War Office to carry out the installation of Tricon Foodservice Consultants’ design. Vision were very proactive in their coordination with the other contractors and managed to install the operationally and visually beautiful commercial kitchens in a building that was difficult to navigate. Vision overcame many obstacles that the building and project produced and always came up with a solution to keep Tricon’s proposed design intact. We are very satisfied with the outcome of the installation, and they were committed to ensure the finishes were up to the standard this project demanded.”
Benjamin Donaldson, Lead Designer at Tricon Foodservice Consultants
