One of the most fulfilling jobs in the world is being a landlord. However, that isn’t to say that the job is a walk in the park, quite the contrary. If you are a new landlord then you probably have more questions than answers, and you probably need a little
New state of the art 121,000 sq ft built to suit development will benefit from first class environmental facilities and include warehouse, office, training and workshop accommodation. Glencar, a leading UK construction company that was recently ranked amongst Europe’s fastest growing businesses, has today announced that it has been appointed
Regeneration of former Coryton oil refinery site will create 5,500 new jobs and expected to dd £350 million per year to the local economy… Thames Enterprise Park Limited, a joint venture between ALMCOR and Greenergy, has been given the green light from Thurrock Council for one of the most significant
As part of its international growth strategy The Maynard Design Group are pleased to welcome Julian Robinson, former Head of Architecture at The Elizabeth line (Crossrail) as a consultant to the team. He joins with 30 years’ experience in transport design having previously worked on other flagship transport projects such
Knauf Insulation has launched its new online ‘Housebuilders Hub’, providing tools and guidance to help housebuilders comply with the updated Approved Document L (ADL) building regulations. The Hub is accessible via Knauf Insulation’s website, where housebuilders and their suppliers will find a range of free, practical resources, including example ADL-compliant
A brand new UK building regulation is here. Coming into effect on 15th June 2022, Part O deals with the growing issue of buildings being designed and constructed without due consideration to the building’s potential internal temperature, during our warmest months. Importantly, and in difference to many other updates to
Perforations are fundamental to modern design, but they can be easy to overlook. When used intentionally, though, perforations have the power to transform a project—whether by adding texture, altering an object’s aesthetics, or creating a more open feel with natural light. Perforations can be an economical solution, even if you’re
GLP, a leading investor and developer of logistics warehouses and distribution parks, today announced that it has begun earthworks on the site of G-Park Ashby-de-la-Zouch. G-Park Ashby is a 48-acre development site benefitting from an outline planning permission to deliver build-to-suit logistics warehouse opportunities of up to 736,487 SQ FT.
On 14 June 2017, a fire started in the kitchen of a fourth floor flat in West London. Within minutes, the fire spread via the exterior of the building reaching all four sides of the 24-storey tower block and in two hours, most of the upper floors had been engulfed
Dexter Moren Associates (DMA) has achieved planning permission for the refurbishment and extension of 19th century More House in Kensington, London, to provide contemporary student accommodation. Situated at 51-55 Cromwell Road, close to the art and museum centre of London, More House is named after St Thomas More and has
One of the most fulfilling jobs in the world is being a landlord. However, that isn’t to say that the job is a walk in the park, quite the contrary. If you are a new landlord then you probably have more questions than answers, and you probably need a little help getting your bearings. Whether you are thinking of becoming a landlord shortly, or you have just become a new landlord, then there are a few things you should be aware of, such as the vetting process, hiring the help of a property management company, or even what to consider when setting the rental price. Below you can find a few tips for new landlords in 2022. Try a Property Management Company If you are completely new to being a landlord, then one of the best things that you can do is to consider hiring a property management company. Many people become landlords because they think that it is an easy way to make money without really taking it considering how much work it is. As a result, as a new landlord, it can be very easy to become overwhelmed. Of the biggest benefits of hiring a property management company is the fact that you won’t need to deal with the tenants on a day-to-day basis, or deal with any problems that come with renting out a property. More than this, you can rest assured that your rent will be collected on time, every time. Properly Vet Tenants One of the most important things that you have to do as a new landlord is to properly vet tenants. In the beginning, you might find that you are either too relaxed about the tenants that you allow to rent your property, or too strict. One of the most important considerations when vetting a tenant would be their credit rating since this will be an indication of how reliably they’ll be paying rent. Another important consideration when vetting tenants would be their criminal history, and it would be best if they don’t have one. While being very strict with your vetting process isn’t inherently bad, it could reduce the number of tenants that you find for your properties and make the experience a lot more stressful. Set the Best Price Another incredibly important consideration that you have to make as a new landlord would be the price that you are setting for your properties. After all, the money you receive from renting your properties is most likely the main source of your income, so you need to ensure that you can find tenants that can afford to pay the rent. One way to determine the rent price for your properties would be to take a look at the price of the rent of other properties in the area and charge something similar to a property that is like yours. Remember, if the rent price is too low then just about anyone will try to move in, and if it is too high you will struggle to find tenants. Do a Rigorous Inspection If you are a new landlord, then you probably haven’t had to deal with tenant complaints before. One of the biggest complaints that many landlords face is when something is broken on the property and the tenants claim that it was always broken. The best way to avoid this from happening would be to do a rigorous inspection with the tenants before renting out the property. This means going through the entire property with the tenants to ensure that everything isn’t working and nothing is broken. An even better idea than this would be to take photographic evidence, so you have tangible proof that you held up your end of the bargain. List Your Property Online Finally, the last thing that you should do as a new landlord would be to try and list your property online. Times have changed quite drastically and put your property in the newspaper is one of the least effective ways to get tenants. One of the biggest benefits of listing your property online would be the fact that potential tenants will be able to see photos of each room. Bold at this you’ll be able to list all of the features of the property as well as the requirements for living there, such as having no pets or no smoking.
New state of the art 121,000 sq ft built to suit development will benefit from first class environmental facilities and include warehouse, office, training and workshop accommodation. Glencar, a leading UK construction company that was recently ranked amongst Europe’s fastest growing businesses, has today announced that it has been appointed by world renowned German manufacturer of chainsaws and other handheld power equipment STIHL to construct their new GB headquarters and distribution facility at a site in Surrey just off the A331. The new state of the art 121,000 sq ft development designed by Hale Architects will include 97,000 sq ft of warehouse space that will utilise state-of-the-art picking and storage systems to maximise productivity, efficiency and the use of space. An adjoining 25,000 sq ft HQ will boast dedicated retailer training facilities, an on-site restaurant, flexible collaborative workspaces and a technical workshop. The development will also incorporate new car parking, service yard, landscaping and the construction of a new access from the adjoining A331. The new HQ also benefits from first-class environmental credentials including two-thirds of the total roof area (17,000 sq ft) covered with photovoltaic solar panels to provide power to the new facility. In addition, there will be provision for 26 EV charging points in anticipation of the continued move towards the use of electric vehicles. The project is expected to take 42 weeks to build with the new facility expected to be complete by May 2023. Speaking about the contract award Roy Jones Glencar Managing Director London and South said: “STIHL are world leaders when it comes to chainsaws and garden power tools, setting the standard for over 90 years so Glencar are both honoured and proud to have been appointed to design and build their new headquarters and distribution facility. This state of the art project goes to serve as a further example of our design and build credentials and proven ability to construct buildings tailored to our customer exacting specifications. We look forward to working with STIHL GB and the extended project team and delivering on time and to budget. Also commenting Kay Green, Managing Director of STIHL GB, said: “STIHL has enjoyed a sustained period of growth in recent years, and as a consequence, we have outgrown our existing warehouse and office facilities. Our new purpose-built headquarters represents a significant capital investment and is a commitment to the future for our local workforce. This cutting-edge facility will allow us to plan for many years of future growth, which will continue to benefit the local economy. We are delighted that we were able to secure a suitable site in Camberley and we’re looking forward to working with Glencar and seeing construction progress”
Regeneration of former Coryton oil refinery site will create 5,500 new jobs and expected to dd £350 million per year to the local economy… Thames Enterprise Park Limited, a joint venture between ALMCOR and Greenergy, has been given the green light from Thurrock Council for one of the most significant brownfield regeneration projects in the South East of England. Thames Enterprise Park will revive the former Coryton oil refinery site, initially delivering 3.7 million sq ft of advanced logistics, advanced manufacturing and next-generation energy technology uses. It will create up to 5,500 new jobs. The development is expected to add more than £350 million per year to the local economy ultimately growing to more than £3.5 billion. It will transform 412 acres of brownfield land into a new commercial district with the first plots expected to be ready for development during 2023. The development will have sustainability at its core and will comprise state-of-the-art construction to the highest standards of energy efficiency. It will help occupiers to deliver on ESG requirements and feature next generation energy technologies that contribute to the decarbonisation agenda. Rupert Wood, Head of Strategic Land at ALMCOR, speaking on behalf of Thames Enterprise Park, said: “This is an important milestone for the project.” “Thames Enterprise Park is a once-in-a-generation regeneration project and we are very pleased to secure the support of Thurrock Council’s planning committee. The project will create 5,500 jobs and will play a transformational role for Thurrock and for Thames Freeport, bringing this former employment site back into use with up to 3.7m sq. ft of modern, sustainable business space. It will also create one of the most significant employment-led regeneration projects in the South-East of England.” Thames Enterprise Park will play a pivotal part in the long-term success of Thames Freeport, the UK’s leading Freeport, with the site offering significant additionality for the Thames Freeport to achieve its full potential. The plans will put Thames Enterprise Park at the heart of the decarbonisation agenda and help occupiers looking for solutions in the face of the energy transition and the climate change challenge. Thames Enterprise Park is one of ALMCOR’s major brownfield regeneration projects. It is part of ALMCOR’s portfolio of large-scale, complex redevelopment sites where ALMCOR’s capability and expertise is making the difference in bringing strategic sites forward.
As part of its international growth strategy The Maynard Design Group are pleased to welcome Julian Robinson, former Head of Architecture at The Elizabeth line (Crossrail) as a consultant to the team. He joins with 30 years’ experience in transport design having previously worked on other flagship transport projects such as the Jubilee Line Extension and St Pancras International station. The Maynard Design Group, was a key part of the team responsible for the Line wide design of The Elizabeth line (Crossrail) which launched to a public fanfare on 24 May 2022 with some 500,000 users on the first day, and two million in the first week. Julian’s new role will be to bring his strategic knowledge and delivery experience to the group and future clients. Julian Maynard, Managing Director of Maynard Design Group, said: “I have known Julian for 25+ years since we worked side by side on the Jubilee Line Extension under the renowned architect Roland Paoletti. I led the Line wide team and Julian was the Architect at Canning Town Station. Crossrail gave us the opportunity to work together again, this time with Julian as our client. “I am looking forward to this collaboration which will help us in the next steps of our growth strategy within the transport sector.” Julian Robinson said: “Delivering the Elizabeth line has been an incredibly enjoyable and rewarding experience. Julian and I hold great respect for each other having worked together in various guises since 1995, and I’m pleased to be able to continue working alongside him and supporting the talented Maynard Design Group of businesses.” Maynard Design Group announced in March that it had acquired Transport Design Consultancy (TDC) in a major merger for the global transport design industry. With the Elizabeth line (Crossrail) launching last month, the projects the Group have worked on now serve over 3.5 billion passenger journeys per year globally including major hubs in Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, India, the Far East and several flagship schemes in the UK.
Knauf Insulation has launched its new online ‘Housebuilders Hub’, providing tools and guidance to help housebuilders comply with the updated Approved Document L (ADL) building regulations. The Hub is accessible via Knauf Insulation’s website, where housebuilders and their suppliers will find a range of free, practical resources, including example ADL-compliant whole-house recipes*, a Part L Guide, a U-value calculator and advice on different approaches to achieving compliance. Further resources will be added to the Hub over the coming months and visitors have the option to register for alerts, as these become available. In the long-term, the business plans to develop the platform further, and provide expert insights and practical information around a range of key industry topics, such as innovation and sustainability. The Hub forms part of Knauf Insulation’s ‘partnership’ approach, which offers support services to housebuilders, alongside the products they know and trust. “With changes to the regulations now in force, housebuilders are under pressure to adapt quickly”, explains James Hulbert, Head of Housing for Knauf Insulation. “We understand that different projects have different needs, so we’ve taken the opportunity to extend our support, by offering compliance advice and solutions to suit a broad range of scenarios.” The Knauf Insulation Housebuilders Hub can be accessed at: https://www.knaufinsulation.co.uk/Housebuilders-hub
A brand new UK building regulation is here. Coming into effect on 15th June 2022, Part O deals with the growing issue of buildings being designed and constructed without due consideration to the building’s potential internal temperature, during our warmest months. Importantly, and in difference to many other updates to the Building Regulations, Part O will be applied retrospectively, regardless of when a planning application was submitted or approved, if projects have not actually started construction before 15th June 2023 they will be required to comply with Part O. This 12-month transition period allows for designers and developers to make changes to planned projects to ensure they comply before their construction commences. Overheating of buildings is not a new issue. Previously, it has been partially addressed with assessment tools and guidance by various bodies, but for the first time, the UK Government, in the form of the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) has firmly addressed the issue. The management of solar gains in buildings is to be enforced under the revised Building Regulations 2022, specifically the new Part O, which comes into effect on 15th June 2022. What is Part O? Approved Document O covers the overheating mitigation requirements of the building regulations; designing and constructing buildings to limit unwanted solar gains in summer and provide an adequate means of removing excess heat from the indoor environment. It applies to all residential and institutional dwellings, including care facilities and student accommodation, anywhere you would stay overnight (but excluding hotels), ranging from a single storey house to a high-rise apartment block. Make no mistake, this is a significant change that will need to be acknowledged and adopted by all developers and designers with immediate effect, to avoid the risk of new homes failing to pass building regs. Since December 2021 when Part O was released, Smartlouvre have been gathering feedback from those affected including house builders and housing associations. They have written a whitepaper to respond to this feedback, with input from designers, building physicists, simulation experts and members of CIBSE. They have also been in contact with the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to ensure what they create is a rounded document, which de-mystifies the regulation and provides unbiased advice, whilst giving thought provoking comment as to how we in the construction sector can design in consideration of user comfort and health as a primary consideration. To read the whitepaper visit www.smartlouvre.com (url to be set live on Friday 17th June).
Perforations are fundamental to modern design, but they can be easy to overlook. When used intentionally, though, perforations have the power to transform a project—whether by adding texture, altering an object’s aesthetics, or creating a more open feel with natural light. Perforations can be an economical solution, even if you’re looking for a way to add interest and variety to a building or a part of it. However, it’s essential to understand the basics of perforations if you’re working on a metal perforation project. Consider getting a reliable perforated metal sheeting supplier for the best results you won’t regret later on. To help you out, here are some tips for achieving smooth metal perforations: Maintain A Proper Perforation Ratio The perforation ratio is the ratio of the number of perforations to the total number of holes. This helps determine how many perforations you’ll use in a given area. The higher your perforation ratio, the more holes you’ll have on one piece of sheet metal. The more holes you have, the better your product will look—but only if you use proper design techniques for each application. If not done correctly, too many holes can make products weaker than they should be or just plain hideous. You must be smart and creative about metal perforation to produce your desired output. Consider The Thickness Of Your Material The thickness of your material is an essential factor to note when designing perforations. The thicker your material, the harder it will be to perforate, and the more likely your design will tear, break, or stretch. There’s also a high chance that your material will turn out unappealing. It’s also vital that you remember that you may have limited options for materials based on your type of project. For example, what you’ll need for an architectural project would differ from what you need for construction projects. Similarly, what you’ll need while fencing a home would also be different when the metals are used indoors. Consider Your Project’s Pattern The pattern of your perforation can affect the way the material behaves. The pattern depends on the purpose and the interest of the owner. You may decide to have a circular one or a pattern that represents a square. You may even represent a figurine on the metal perforation. All you need is a strong and durable material for the project, and you’ll be able to get ahead with it. Track Your Perforation Process It’s crucial to track the process after you’ve created your perforations to ensure it’s done the right way. You want to check for accuracy and ensure that your metal perforations are where they should be. You also want to ensure they’re created promptly and safely, so you can meet deadlines without problems. While engaging in the project, you may also want to document your challenges, which may help you gain compensation once you give reports. Account For Material Surroundings Consider the circumstances on how your material will be viewed, no matter what type you’re perforating. There are varieties of metal for perforations, and you must ensure you choose the right one. You wouldn’t want to choose a material that’s either too thick or too soft. You also want a material that will work for its purpose, even if you want to use it in gutters outside a building. Use The Right Type Of Material You want to ensure you’re choosing the suitable material for your project when you make the decision. To consider the sheet you choose, evaluate if it’s too thick for your design or not. Moreover, check if it will fit the specific project. Pair Up With Experienced Professionals Working with experienced professionals is critical when you’re handling a large-scale project. A professional can help you avoid common mistakes and make the most of the choices you’ve already made. They’ll also do everything they can to get you the best results possible. These professionals usually have a team of experts who can team up with you and offer more professional guidance to achieve productivity. It all depends on the project need, scope, and the financial power of your firm. Conclusion Perforations can play an essential role in project designs, and there are ways to optimize the process so that they precisely do what you want them to do. With the tips presented in this article and the aid of a perforation expert, you’ll ensure that your perforations work well for your project and enjoy the process. Now you’re one step closer to making your creations come to life.
GLP, a leading investor and developer of logistics warehouses and distribution parks, today announced that it has begun earthworks on the site of G-Park Ashby-de-la-Zouch. G-Park Ashby is a 48-acre development site benefitting from an outline planning permission to deliver build-to-suit logistics warehouse opportunities of up to 736,487 SQ FT. Earthworks are progressing rapidly and are expected to be finished by early 2023, with the full development set to complete by Q1 2024. The site has a prime location in the Midlands logistics hub, in the heart of the Golden Triangle. G-Park Ashby is conveniently situated adjacent to the A42 and A511, providing access to the M42 to the South and the M1 10 miles to the North East. Urban hubs Birmingham, Nottingham and Leicester are all close by, with Manchester, Liverpool and London also easily accessible. East Midlands Airport, only 10 miles away, and Birmingham International Airport, 29 miles away, also provide convenient air links for transportation. The site can be developed as either one single unit or two units, depending on customer requirements, with clear internal heights of up to 18 metres. As with all GLP’s developments, the units will be built to enhanced specification and will follow GLP’s rigorous ESG standards. The development will be BREEAM Excellent and WELL ready, and will feature a range of sustainability features including rainwater harvesting and energy tracking and consumption tools for customers. The development is a prime example of the care taken by GLP to respect and nurture the natural environment. For example, a colony of great crested newts was discovered on the site, which GLP has taken significant time and consideration to rehome, delaying progression with the earthworks until the colony was safely relocated. There will also be an extensive green outdoor space for landscaping and nature, including ecological ponds. Adrienne Howells, Senior Development Director at GLP, said: “G-Park Ashby is an exciting addition to our portfolio in the Midlands and indicates our ongoing confidence in opportunities in the Golden Triangle, following the success of projects such as Magna Park Lutterworth. Trends such as e-commerce have buoyed already high demand for prime logistics space, particularly high-quality, conveniently-located, sustainable facilities such as this.” Not only will this new development bring excellent opportunities for our customers; it will also boost employment in the region, creating almost 1000 new jobs and providing major benefits for the local economy. Once again, we are planning our development with place-making as a priority, focusing on environmental features such as our ponds, green open spaces and our G-Hive bee programme.”
On 14 June 2017, a fire started in the kitchen of a fourth floor flat in West London. Within minutes, the fire spread via the exterior of the building reaching all four sides of the 24-storey tower block and in two hours, most of the upper floors had been engulfed in fire. The fire which destroyed Grenfell Tower saw the loss of 72 lives and has been named as “one of the UK’s worst modern disasters.” Factors that played part in the disaster Grenfell Tower had a ‘stay put’ fire policy which assumes that fire compartmentation works in the event of a fire. Being an important element of passive fire protection, its purpose is to contain the fire to its area of origin for as long as possible meaning that effectively, the fire and rescue services can bring the fire under control, and residents can evacuate safely. Many of Grenfell’s residents followed this policy and stayed put only to become trapped by the fire that gained momentum around them; others ignored this policy and managed to escape to safety. It is quite incomprehensible just how many things went wrong during the early hours of that Wednesday morning. Fire safety engineer Dr Barbara Lane, in a report to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry, discovered that the fire started spreading vertically up the tower block, and “laterally along the cladding above and below the window lines (and) the panels between windows.” The fire reached the top floor of the east side at approximately 01:26, evidenced by mobile footage, and had spread to the north side by 01:42. There were many factors that played a part in the fast spread of fire, but in his report to the Inquiry, Professor Luke Bisby said that evidence “strongly supports” that the external cladding was the main cause. He said: “The ACM (aluminium composite material) product on Grenfell Tower incorporates a highly combustible polyethylene polymer filler which melts, drips, and flows at elevated temperature. The polyethylene filler material is expected to release large amounts of energy during combustion”. However, Bisby found that other factors may have contributed to this such as other flammable materials for example, a polyurethane polymer foam insulation board, whilst Lane identified combustible materials in the windows, exposed gas pipes and flat doors not meeting current fire resistance standards. An important factor: current practices in the industry In light of the fifth anniversary of Grenfell Tower, a day to remember the people who lost their lives and hold in thought all of the family members and survivors, it is important to reflect on the years that have passed and why a cultural change is needed. Dame Judith Hackitt has been the driving force behind the construction industry’s next steps in building a safer future. Current practices show that the industry, often, focusses on sales and profit; cheaper products and money saved; quantity of content rather than the quality of content, over the safety of a building and its residents. Until the industry wholeheartedly embraces change and separates itself from old practices, the risk of destructive fire is inevitable. The industry’s culture has been resisting change for decades, suggesting that most parties are reluctant to take the lead and admit that it needs to improve with immediate effect. It has taken the tragedy of Grenfell for the culture of the industry to come under hard scrutiny in what Hackitt explains as “lack of ownership and responsibility, the system is gamed, and corners are cut wherever possible.” The Building Safety Bill received royal assent on 28 April 2022, meaning that it is now an act of parliament (BSA). Although many of the requirements will not come into force for another 12-18 months, Hackitt senses the mood may have shifted. She said: “The construction industry is waking up to the reality that this is really going to happen. I am delighted to hear […] that more than 300 organisations have now signed up to the Building a Safer Future charter and a similar number to the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI).” Why is cultural change important? Although five years on, there is still a long way to go in terms of embracing innovation and rebuilding the trust and confidence lost in the construction industry. Legislation will help to change behaviours and force people into doing the right thing, but it cannot create a cultural change alone. It needs leaders and professionals within the industry to stand up and be counted but ultimately, encourage other individuals to do the same. If the practices displayed in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry have shown anything, it is that there is no better time than now for all parties to start utilizing guidance provided from relevant sectors and begin changing the way they work. With the ongoing push for reform, it has never been more vital for individuals to have the correct training, experience, and knowledge in their sectors. One main problem highlighted was the lack of well-trained workers. Sir Martin Moore-Bick, chair of the Grenfell Inquiry, stated: “Four members of the first [firefighter] crews to have fought the blaze had 52 years of combined experience. However, they had not received any training on the risks posed by exterior cladding or the techniques to be deployed in fighting fires involving cladding, the report found.” This suggests that when it comes to fire safety, every party needs to be involved from architects, who design a building, to fire and rescue services who are the first point of call in the event of a fire. By employers becoming influencers in the development of their organisation, alongside workers wanting to do the right thing for a safer future, this will ensure competency and ultimately, help create safer living spaces for residents in high-rise buildings. For any cultural change, there must be someone willing to take the lead. The construction industry is guilty of waiting for regulations to come into force before taking any action, but it is not enough to wait for government
Dexter Moren Associates (DMA) has achieved planning permission for the refurbishment and extension of 19th century More House in Kensington, London, to provide contemporary student accommodation. Situated at 51-55 Cromwell Road, close to the art and museum centre of London, More House is named after St Thomas More and has welcomed students between 1952 and 2020. The 38,000sq ft building was vacant when bought by SAV Group, who specialise in refurbishing and repositioning complicated sites into income-generating residential properties. Sustainability has formed a major part of DMA’s design, with every effort made to retain as much of the existing structure as possible in order to limit the embodied carbon emissions of the project. Located in the Queens Gate Conservation Area, DMA’s design team has collaborated closely with heritage consultant Montagu Evans to ensure the proposal remains in line with the character of the conservation area, whilst successfully reconfiguring the internal layout to provide as much accommodation as possible within the constraints of the existing building envelope. Mark Wood, Partner at DMA, says: “With this project, we needed to achieve a lot within the 19th century fabric; upgrading and extending the accommodation to meet the needs of 21st century students whilst maintaining the building’s heritage values by returning it, where possible, to its original appearance. We have been able to apply the skills honed across our varied portfolio, including hospitality refurbishments, to sympathetically enhance More House’s appearance, sustaining the life of the building and making a positive contribution to the conservation area in which it stands.” The design team has given careful consideration to the material selection to ensure a calm, neighbourly design proposal that sits in its context seamlessly. DMA’s subtle interventions include a new mansard roof whose natural slate tile finishes reintegrates with the original design of the building and maintains the rhythm of the roofscape. With discreet infill extensions to the rear and the restoration of hipped roofs adding space for internal mezzanines in the closet wings, additional communal areas and reconfigured bedroom spaces have also been created. The similarly successful change of use for the mews garage to a new ancillary area adds yet more useable space. Lightwells breathe new life into the lower accommodation of the building by maximising light ingress. The design of the lightwell is influenced by the art galleries and museums near More House. It is intended that sculptures will form the focal point of the lightwell to create interesting yet calming spaces. DMA envisions the student residents actively collaborating to inform the design of these sculptural centrepieces within the lightwell, creating a clear sense of unity and belonging as they get this unique opportunity to express themselves through the decoration and celebration of their new home. Mark Wood, Partner, DMA, concludes: “We have worked closely with our client SAV Group to repair and restore the existing fabric, whilst modest and carefully considered extensions and reconfigurations add new bedrooms, as well as ensuites to all rooms. DMA’s carefully crafted layouts also add value with communal areas for studying, meeting and cooking, which help create a sense of connection for the residents, as they get to share spaces to study and relax in together. Furthermore, the design helps to future proof the building by creating areas that are fit for multiple different uses, enabling the building to change functionality should there ever be a need to do so.”