Reflections from the Meliora Scheme

I recently took part in the brand new Meliora Scheme, which facilitated a secondment between Cundall and Overbury and provided me with valuable insight into an on-site role. For five weeks, I worked as a resident engineer at Overbury, splitting my time between 1 Leadenhall and 1 Broadgate. Both projects involved Cat A and Cat B fit-out works from shell and core.

This collaboration has helped to bridge the gap between theoretical design and construction reality. I will use this knowledge to enhance my future projects by ensuring I produce buildable and robust designs. Overall, I gained a greater appreciation of the contractor's role and how, as a consultant, I can facilitate efficient collaboration to help meet programme, budget, and project-specific objectives. 

Looking at 1 Broadgate, where sustainability was a major project objective, it was interesting to witness the circular procurement procedures that incorporated reclaimed items. With a deeper knowledge of the selection process, I can now approach my projects in a different light. With knowledge of the circular supply chain and performance parameters of second-life equipment, I will prioritise and actively seek opportunities to specify reused or refurbished equipment or components, rather than defaulting to new materials.

I'd strongly recommend an initiative like this to anyone who wants to become a more holistic building services engineer and gain a deeper understanding of how projects come together from design to on-site delivery.