brp blog

The Rosebery Street Medical Centre, Loughborough - Grand opening

2013-04-23T13:48:00.000+01:00

Friday 19th April marked the official opening ceremony of The Rosebery Street Medical Centre, Loughborough in the newly refurbished infants hall/community space. Over 150 invited guests attended including people involved with delivering the project, patients, ex-teachers from the school and local/national MPs.

Rosebery Street Medical Centre, Loughborough

Paul Hanlon Practice Manager got proceedings underway by introducing the project and explaining the challenges and successes of being the client on a project of this nature, he thanked the design team for helping deliver the project and thanked brp architects and William Davis for making this development possible.

Anna Soubry MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Public Health took over to formally open the medical centre congratulating the overall vision of the entire development and rang the old school bell to signify the start of a new lease of life for the building.

Anna Soubry MP ringing the old school bell

Nicky Morgan, Member of Parliament for Loughborough offered a response in praising the doctors, brp architects, the developers and design team for preserving the old building and bringing its use fully up to date to offer services to the local community of a high quality.

After the formalities came to an end the attendees were invited to tour the facility. It was interesting to see the positive responses of those who were seeing the building in its rejuvenated state for the first time. It was a joy to hear local residents who used to attend the school recounting stories of their past experiences and revelling at the careful preservation of the buildings character whilst providing modern medical facilities that has seen the building return as a key element of the local community.

From brp architects perspective this project has been a journey from inception through to completion that has been challenging due to its nature but one of the most rewarding projects that the office has ever undertaken and this has been rewarded with the enthusiastic response of the doctors, staff, patients and ex-pupils to the finished product.

brp architects would like to give credit to all involved in this project.

For more images and information:
brp architects website
13 Novemeber 2012
18 June 2012

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brp architects selected as finalist for Building Excellence Award.

2013-04-12T16:32:00.000+01:00

brp architects designed "Rosebery Street Medical Centre" has been selected as a finalist for the LABC East Midland's Regional Building Excellence Awards in the "Best Community Building category". All finalists will be judged by a panel of industry experts and the winners announced at the "East Midlands Conference Centre" in Nottingham next month.

Rosebery Street Medical Centre, Loughborough

The awards evening provides a great opportunity to network with some of the industry’s leading professionals as well as enabling us to celebrate our achievement in creating one of the East Midland's most outstanding buildings.

The LABC awards are highly recognised within the construction industry with winning projects automatically qualifying for the National Building Excellence Awards in London in November.

Lee Hankins to be wed this Saturday!

2013-03-27T16:42:00.002Z

One of brp architects longest serving members of staff Lee Hankins is due to be married this weekend at Prestwold Hall in Loughborough. A huge congratulations and best of luck to both Lee and his good lady Donna from all of us at brp architects.

Photo © Emma Nicol Photography

Former pub site to be transformed into apartments

2013-03-26T13:51:00.000Z

Plans to transform the derelict Dun Cow Inn site on Gold Street, Wellingborough have been approved by planners, with work due to commence on site soon.

Sketch visual representation of new apartments, Gold Street

Following on from the success of the adjacent Knights Court development brp architects have continued their partnership with Wellingborough Homes and are working with Westleigh Developments Ltd to deliver this fresh new apartment scheme, consisting of 26 units.

Existing pub occupying the site on Gold Street, Wellingborough

The development, all 1 and 2 bedroom apartments, will help provide some much needed affordable general needs accommodation in the heart Wellingborough.

This scheme also features in the Northampton Herald & Post.

Red Nose Day 2013!

2013-03-15T13:53:00.002Z

brp architects have raised £180 this year through the medium of T-shirt wearing and warm hearted generosity. Thank you to all the team at brp architects!

Just a little reminder as to where the money raised goes:
"In the UK, you help give shelter to young people living on the streets and protection to those living with domestic abuse. In Africa, your money saves thousands from malaria and provides whole communities with fresh water and life-saving vaccines."

Good Architects pay for themselves...

2013-02-27T13:41:00.000Z

How can you save money on your build if you’re on a tight budget?

The general ethos for saving money on your build is to do as much work yourself as possible. Whilst this is true in some cases, you will be prone to running into problems.

On projects large and small it is vitally important to ask the advice of a professional.

Good architects will pay for themselves by maximising opportunity and negotiating you through the numerous pitfalls, not only saving unnecessary cost but adding value. Undoubtedly it is worth contacting or hiring an architect.

Many Clients undertake building projects only once in a career or even a lifetime and will not have the benefit of experience - why trust the success of your project to luck?

How good architects will pay for themselves?

Established architects have a wealth of experience accumulated over numerous completed projects.
Can help you focus on your needs as well as wants, developing a sustainable brief.
Are able to explore, identify and capitalise on opportunities.
Understand design efficiency and value for money.
Mindful of longer term costs of maintenance, repair and replacement not just the initial cost.
Understand the ever increasing complexity of statutory obligations, from Planning Applications, Building Regulations, Party Wall matters, Equality, Construction Health & Safety... to name but a few.

In the lead up to Grand Designs Live, Kevin McCloud championed and advocated the numerous benefits of employing an Architect...

Super-merge of five medical practices - West Bridgford

2013-01-18T10:34:00.001Z

Full planning approval has been granted for the new, brp architects designed, medical centre for West Bridgford in Nottingham to create premises for five existing practices in the area.

West Bridgford Medical Centre - Sketch representation of reception/atrium area

The scheme sees the merger of the Ludlow Hill Surgery; Trent Bridge Medical Practice; Southview Surgery; Compton Acre Medical Centre and the stand-alone Musters Medical Practice all coming together within one building, along with a new Pharmacy and other associated services.

The approval is the culmination of a thorough and in-depth site sequential testing process; public and patient consultations; planning and Environment Agency consultations and a rigorous package of planning drawings and documents.

West Bridgford Medical Centre - Car parking plan and site/roof plan

The site, located on Wilford Lane, West Bridgford, is owned by the Environment Agency who used it as a compound area during the construction of the River Trent flood defences.

A major influence on the design of the building is the Trent flood plain that impacts on the site. This has necessitated the raising of the building on stilts above the flood level, resulting in the building being set far back form the pavement line in order to provide a disabled-compliant approach and less obtrusive massing.

The building is primarily a Primary Care Centre and Pharmacy but has designated areas for ancillary uses for separate tenants.

West Bridgford Medical Centre - Visual representation

The building will provide general medical services to the existing patient community as well as additional services and “care closer to home” with the view to reducing referrals to hospitals and specialists.

West Bridgford Medical Centre - Ground and first floor plans

The concepts for the design of the building are centred around a core atrium space containing a reception and waiting space and the previously mentioned raising of the building. These create a striking approach flanked by rendered feature walls into the dramatic double-height atrium.

West Bridgford Medical Centre - Visual representation

Externally the building is a mix of render, brickwork and blockwork, drawing reference from the local area and arranged to break up the long side elevations. The dynamically angled roof will be supported by angled columns in each corner of the building. Ribbons of curtain walling will help articulate the façades further, combined with the rising of the building out of the ground, will create a lightness and sensitive contextural approach to what is predominantly a large building.

This hub of West Bridgford, scheduled to start on site in late spring/summer 2013, will provide the 30,000+ patients with modern, state of the art, primary healthcare for many years to come.

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brp architects are pleased to announce two new members of the team.

2012-12-18T10:58:00.002Z

Jennifer and Richard joined the practice on November 19th to assist with our expanding workload, following a significant number of projects being secured in both the high end residential and the retirement living sectors, and continued success in the Primary Care Sector.

In an economic climate of uncertainty, the practice's increasing workload and confidence to expand is testimony to our continuing development. The advertising of the positions at brp architects has generated well over 100 applications from candidates around the world.

New additions to the team at brp architects

Both Jennifer and Richard are RIBA part II qualified, having undertaken their graduate studies on a part time basis gaining several years of practice experience along the way. Jennie is a graduate of DeMontfort University and Richard from Oxford Brookes.

Bringing with them valuable skills and experience: Jennifer has a strong background in working alongside Social and Affordable housing providers in the East Midlands both architecturally and for a Design-and-Build contractor, and will initially integrate and bolster the residential team. Richard has a broad and varied background including, site based project management and surveying, in addition to his architectural background.

Continuing it’s commitment to the profession and it’s team, brp architects are sponsoring both Richard and Jennifer through their final PG Dip in Architectural Practice qualifications leading to full architectural registration and RIBA Chartership.

You can view a little more about Jennifer, Richard and the rest of the team here at brp architects on our websites key personnel page.

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Merry Christmas from all of us here at brp architects!

2012-12-17T12:15:00.000Z

Click image to expand - Rosebery Medical Centre, Loughborough

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year from all of us here at brp architects!

brp architects designed homes help residents stay in village.

2012-12-07T14:31:00.000Z

“Families in Sapcote are benefitting from twelve new affordable homes that have been built specifically in the village for local people.”
- Contact Magazine for the district of Blaby (download extract)

brp architects designed homes feature in Contact magazine for the district of blaby.

New affordable housing - Fosse Close, Sapcote

The development is a rural exception site and was identified by East Midlands Housing Group as part of their commitment to providing affordable housing in and around the villages of the East Midlands. Comprising of a mixture of rental and shared ownership in a combination of two and three bedroom houses together with a two bed roomed bungalow. The completed houses are being managed as part of Three Oaks Homes housing stock.

New affordable housing - Fosse Close, Sapcote

Cost effective design and value engineering contributed to the success of the development which was built by Bedford based SDC to the latest energy efficiency standards.

New affordable housing - Fosse Close, Sapcote

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Rosebery Medical Centre & Pharmacy, Loughborough

2012-11-13T09:15:00.001Z

Former Victorian school converted into state of the art Medical Centre

A former Victorian primary school built in 1897 has been lovingly restored to its former glory with some contemporary interventions and twists, whilst respecting its Grade II listing after a long period of neglect and falling into a state of disrepair.

Original columns at former 'Girls' and 'Infants' entrance retained

The new use that has brought this building back to life is a vibrant medical centre for the doctors and patients of the former Storer Road surgery in Loughborough. The double height central hall has been retained as a dramatic waiting room space. The former classrooms radiating from the central hall have been converted to modern consulting room suites and administration spaces respecting the form and nature of the building and its details.

The double height central hall retained as dramatic waiting room

Previous extensions and temporary classrooms have been removed from the site to make way for a sympathetic external circulation space and a contemporary entrance to the building, again retaining or reflecting many of the historic features of its setting.

Monolithic signage totem for Medical Centre & Pharmacy

A delicate lighting strategy designed to highlight the many preserved architectural features in and around the building. Careful program of repair with a minimal level of intervention has preserved a stunning example of Victorian Architecture for future generations. With many patients being former pupils of the school the development has helped to inspire the local community and has become a catalyst for regeneration in the surrounding area.

For more images and information about this project click here.

Previous posts relating to this project:

18 June 2012

22 August 2010

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New Medical Centre breathes life into old hospital

2012-10-31T12:22:00.001Z

The £5 million Hume Street Medical Centre, built on a disused part of the Kidderminster General Hospital site, is now complete.

Kidderminster primary care centre - complete

The new primary care centre has replaced the premises of the Aylmer Road and Northumberland House surgeries and also houses a pharmacy and a private clinical suite.

Northumberland House surgery and Aylmer Lodge surgery reception

Planning work on the project began in 2005 with a successful competitive bid by the consortium led by Haven Health properties Ltd and reached practicable completion on 2nd October. Main contractor on the 3-4 storey building is Wildgoose Construction and the architect is brp architects.

Kidderminster primary care centre in context

Alan Sankey, Director of brp architects and project architect said:

“The project is extremely complex – the only available suitably located site was occupied by several disused buildings and a staff car park at Kidderminster General Hospital. In order to make the site deliverable we had to demolish 7,000 square metres of redundant hospital building and relocate a 250 space car park.

“The site was initially sloping so has been divided into two levels – the upper level which is the primary care centre and its car park turning itself away from the hospital – and the lower level which is the re-provided staff car park for the hospital that sits partly underneath the building as an undercroft and partly in the open air.

Kidderminster Primary Care Centre Internal Views

“The site is very much an area of transition between small scale, traditional Victorian terraces and the monolithic blocks forming the rest of the hospital. We have created an environment which tries to respond to the brutish scale of the hospital on the one side, to the more interesting and varied scale of the residential properties on the other. Through scale, massing and external wall finishes the building is broken down into manageable forms with a unique identity of it’s own.

“The central entrance, flanked either side by the private suite and pharmacy, leads directly into the heart of the building crossing the light airy axial spine to the combined reception desk of the two GP practices. The waiting areas, off either side, are both top lit by substantial light wells and present themselves to the exterior of the building with full height glazed corners. In some respects we have created a central naturally lit mall with glazed ends.

“We’re pleased to have been involved in this high profile project and look forward to seeing the facility benefit the local community.”

For more images and information click here..

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brp architects designed extra care facility – one year on…

2012-07-20T14:53:00.000+01:00

Summer 2012 has marked the one-year anniversary of The Spinney Extra Care Facility at Thorney Road, Eye, Peterborough.

The Spinney extra care facility - Eye, Peterborough

brp architects returned to the, now fully operational, extra care facility to evaluate and document the building as it stands one year on.

The Spinney extra care facility - Eye, Peterborough

The Spinney Extra Care Facility at Thorney Road, Eye, Peterborough provides a 52 unit Extra Care development, comprising a mix of 1 and 2-bedroom apartments with supplementary resident amenity spaces. 12 Close Care bungalows, set within a new residential developed by Larkfleet Homes, also surround the main building.

The Spinney extra care facility - Eye, Peterborough

The Spinney is the second Extra Care development undertaken for Axiom Housing Association, by brp architects, following on from the successful Pavilions scheme at Alma Road, Peterborough completed in June 2008.

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Green Apple Award presented to brp architects...

2012-06-27T09:58:00.000+01:00

Green Apple Award Certificate - Warrens Medical Centre

brp architects are thrilled to have one of our buildings recognised by The Green Organisation who are an independent environment group dedicated to promoting the positive side of environmental endeavour.

Green Apple Award Plaque - Warrens Medical Centre

The award was presented to us for design of the West Wirral Medical Centre and a donation made, on our behalf, to Green Earth Appeal.

The Multi Award Winning - Warrens Medical Centre building

This building has also won a RIBA LRSA Design award

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Rosebery Street School conversion into Medical Centre underway..

2012-06-18T12:18:00.002+01:00

"In August 2010 brp architects announced that the opportunity to design a medical centre to occupy the shell of this, then idle, grade II listed school was underway..."

Rosebery Street School, Loughborough - Original listed building photos

The design of the project…

This beautiful existing building is endeared by the local community as an important landmark making the design of this listed building an exciting design challenge, the retention of the original features more significant and our motivation to retain them all the more meaningful. The contrast between the retention of the buildings shell and incorporating a modern state of the art primary care centre gave us the opportunity to undertake some unique design work and deliver a scheme that we can be proud of.

Rosebery Street School conversion into Medical Centre - Entrance Sketch

In addition incorporating a state of the art primary care centre into the existing building an associated pharmacy, ancilliary spaces including residential new build and community centre to inhabit the infants portion of the school were designed.

Rosebery Street School conversion into Medical Centre - Elevation

One of the more important design considerations was to balance the space planning of the primary care element with the retention of the quality of the spaces, volumes and details of the interior and in designing this we have created clever, functional spaces that exhibit the renovated features. Space planning around existing features was seen as an opportunity rather than a restriction with many existing features and spaces affording design challenges that are not forthcoming in new build situations. This is most apparent in the large volume waiting space in the centre of the building with its modern interventions and the dynamic “L” shaped interlocking clinical spaces that serve to provide more positive consultation and examination spaces whilst respecting the existing window locations.

Initial sketches for layout of clinical areas in this primary care centre

Ultimately the design solution was continually tested against the medical practices needs now and projected into the future to ensure that a flexible, functional and aesthetically appropriate solution was achieved.

Rosebery Street Medical Centre - Waiting room visual representation

The construction process…

The construction process of this medical centre is now well under way and is due to complete in July 2012. A complex construction to provide a modern medical centre within the confines of a victorian listed primary school has at times been difficult not helped by all the additional complications that inevitably crop up when converting an existing building. However, all parties involved are now starting to see the benefits of all the hard work and we hope the finished building will be one that both the patients and employees will be thoroughly pleased with.

Primary Care Centre, Loughborough - Visual representation

brp architects have worked very closely with both the planners and conservation officers along every step of the way to ensure that the finished practice is sympathetic to the original building. The decision to retain the features within the main hall and utilise this central area as the waiting room has been very successful and, we feel, will provide a very pleasant waiting area that we hope will be a pleasure to use for patients and staff.

Primary Care Centre Construction photo, Loughborough - Waiting Area

At the entrance the attention to detail around the new tiled wall courtyard provides a statement arrival path into the new building. Keeping the original features visible and visually separating any new elements we have added has been a challenging and highly rewarding experience.

Primary Care Centre Construction photo, Loughborough - Entrance

This is a revitalisation project that we hope will stand the test of time appealing to future generations as the building that once was a learning conduit, was then renewed and continues its life reincarnated as a health utility to help into the local community.

Click here to see the earlier, preconstruction article for this project...

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Boulevard Medical Centre designed by brp architects scoops award!

2012-05-11T15:28:00.000+01:00

"Old merged with new in skilful creation" ...was the headline in the Halifax Courier April 23rd 2012 as a "Medical Centre in a mansion scoops Civic Trust award".

brp architects accept Halifax Civic Trust overall winner plaque

The brp architects designed Boulevard Medical Centre was completed on site in September 2011 and has won the Halifax Civic Trust Award 2012. Ten nominated schemes were visited by Civic Trust members, four were short listed.

The Boulevard Medical Centre, Halifax. Photo by Matt Livey

The award ceremony, attended by brp architects, MedicX (Developers) and members of the practice itself, was held on Thursday 26th April in the impressive Mayors Parlour of the Halifax Town Hall . David Hanson a member of the Executive Committee gave a short talk and description of the commended and highly commended schemes before introducing the overall winner, the brp designed Boulevard Medical Practice. He described the design as a 'Brilliant trick' adapting a Georgian mansion with portico, pillars and Georgian windows and creating a modern medical facility...

"A very big building that doesn't look like it, the building still looks like it did in 1830 when it was first built"...and this is where the brilliance in the design lies.

Inside The Boulevard Medical Centre, Halifax. Photo by Matt Livey

Ashley Heath accepted the award of a plaque for the building on behalf of brp architects, MedicX, and The Boulevard Medical Practice. He described brp architects as...

"Rising to the challenge of producing a modern medical facility whilst working with the important conservation concerns of a building of this nature"...and thanked the trust for the accolade of this award.

The Boulevard Medical Centre, Halifax. Plaque sited. Photo by Matt Livey

"Architects pick up their awards"...was the headline in the online Halifax Courier Saturday 28th April 2012 this featured a picture of the team with the Mayor and the presentation of the plaque, they went on to describe the winner as having a "Dynamic and Vibrant Design".

Links:

More about the design of The Boulevard Medical Centre...
Halifax Courier website article
MedicX article on the award
The Boulevard Medical Practice website
[PDF] Halifax Courier - Press release, Mon 23rd April 2012
[PDF] Halifax Civic Trust - Annual Report 2012 extract

Choosing an Architect

2012-05-10T10:44:00.000+01:00

As architects we often stumble across problems encountered by clients when looking to appoint a design team, across the whole spectrum of project types and values.

Our recent experiences in recovering failing projects for clients has made us aware of some of those things that can and sometimes do go wrong when choosing an Architect.

Choosing an architect or architects practice

To help others dodge the pitfalls of choosing an architect or appointing the ‘wrong consultant’ we have penned a few important points that we think you may find helpful:

1. First and foremost
Consider the nature of your project and how you wish to proceed. Establish your own outline brief early as this can help you choose an architect.

2. Invest time yourselves
Take the necessary time to choose the right Architect for you, and once appointed invest as much time and effort as you can into resolving the brief, reviewing proposals and understanding the information put before you. Careful consideration at this stage will reap dividends, and avoid headaches, as the project progresses through to completion.

3. Avoid appointing an Architect with no experience in your specific sector
Sounds like an obvious one but this does happen and can end in disastrous consequences. Most buildings are unique so the chances of a successful project can be increased by choosing and using an architect with sector specific experience.

4. Use expertise from an experienced practice
Providing your Architect has the right skill set and sufficient background knowledge there is added value to be gained from using their past experience and knowledge to guide you through the often complex briefing, design and delivery processes.

5. Look at the bigger picture
The “cheapest” Architects are not necessarily the most cost effective. Whilst a low fee will doubtlessly appeal initially, it is however very important to assess the fee proposal alongside a specific schedule of services. No two architectural practices are the same and levels of service vary from one to the next. Always take up references and review their strengths and weaknesses inline with what you want to achieve.

6. Gauge whether you can achieve a ‘shared vision’
Enthusiasm for many clients is vitally important in achieving a well-designed, functional and sound build. Sharing similar ideas and design objectives can be hugely beneficial in delivering a high quality scheme. A mediocre idea that generates enthusiasm will go further than a great idea that inspires no one.

7. Find out as much as you can
Approach different architectural practices and find out exactly how they can help you realise your objectives. There may be elements that you have skipped over or have not considered, so a second opinion or fresh set of eyes can be key. Seek references from previous client organisations.

8. Establish an open relationship and build trust
In many instances procuring a new building is a once in a lifetime event and open communication and clarity of understanding is essential for success. Clients must feel comfortable and relaxed with their Architect who in turn should be approachable on all matters. Failed designs often result from misunderstandings and break downs in communication.

9. Appoint an RIBA Chartered Architect or Chartered Practice

“When you use an RIBA Chartered Architect or Chartered Practice you are employing someone who has undertaken seven years of architectural training – no other building professional is trained in design and construction to such a level of expertise.” – RIBA.

If you have found this article helpful then why not follow our blog by email, facebook or twitter. If you have a project in mind and would like a free initial consultation with us then please get in contact:

t: 01858 464986

e: webmail@brp-architects.com

a: 1, millers yard, roman way, market harborough, Leicestershire, le16 7pw

A night out for brp architects...& an award...at the LRSA Dinner 2012!

2012-04-26T09:20:00.000+01:00

Last month saw several members of the brp architects team attend the annual Leicestershire & Rutland Society of Architects (LRSA) Awards Dinner 2012.

The LRSA dinner, held at the Athena venue in Leicester, is always a good opportunity for us to mix with our professional peers and it is fair to say it was an enjoyable evening for all - courtesy of our hosts, SIG!

brp architects accepting design award for The Warrens Medical Centre

The night was capped off with our recently completed The Warrens Medical Centre in the Wirral receiving a 'Commended' design award prompting a good reason to visit the bar to celebrate! Click here to find out more about The Warrens Medical Centre.

RIBA LRSA Design Award 2012 - For the Warrens Medical Centre

Aside from our images above: Watch this space for the official photos for the LRSA dinner 2012.

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Please feel free to comment below.

Amsterdam iconic pedestrian bridge design competition entry

2012-03-12T17:01:00.004Z

Wednesday 29th February 2012, saw the climax of brp’s design of the [AMSTERDAM] Iconic Pedestrian Bridge, as the team submitted their entry for the AC-CA's international design competition.

brp architects submission for [AMSTERDAM] iconic bridge design competition

The accumulation of several months of hard work has resulted in the “Effigy of Movement and Tension”, a functional art that takes its impetus from the ideas of Amsterdam’s artists. The end product is a source of pride for the team and the office as a whole.

The proposal creates a living architecture that:

Makes a statement at the same time as being sympathetic to its context and surrounding massing.
Responds to its environment and users on every scale, down to the collective consciousness of the city.
Drives for balance, which is best expressed in the proposal’s ability to represent both mass and fluidity.

The proposal can be seen in simplistic terms as the muscular tissue of the city and the paths of movements, or to simplify it further a leg and the gears of a bicycle.

Muscle and gears illustrating the design concept

The design consists of four main elements:

The bridge contained within a gyrating spiral
Muscles
New public space “The Gallery” to the east bank
“The Park” on the West bank, a collection of public and semi-private gardens, a balancing element to the opposing bank

Every element of the design keys into the fundamental ideas, from the lighting to the materials and even the routes created by the proposal.

Physical model showing concept development

The materials were chosen for their sustainability credentials, one of the best examples of this is the Nano Vent-Skin with its use of organic PVs to capture sunlight and micro-turbines to capture wind.

The team employed both standard and more abstract methods to assist with the analysis of the site. This included the deconstruction and reconstruction of the site based on the following ideas:

Spirit of the place
Twisted axes
Vitality & motion of a city
Living cities
Non-representational expression of form
Man and his relationship with place
Physical, psychological & visual dynamic flows and tensions of the city

Concept by innovation - capture of movement with video feedback loops

From the beginning there was a conscious decision to avoid an over stylistic response to the [AMSTERDAM] iconic pedestrian bridge brief. Our main aim was to produce and submit a well thought out conclusion.

Breakdown sketch of tensions and flows of Amsterdam

For more information please download and read our submission sheet.

The project has provided many advantages within our group and company, including:

Identification and honing of the skills sets
Teamwork
Highlighted the possibility and restrictions of the design of organic and fluid models
Turning the conceptualism of paper ideas into the grandeur of a finished proposal

Due to the success of this first venture into foreign grounds with the AC-CA [AMSTERDAM] iconic pedestrian bridge competition the team at brp architects have decided to continue their design competition challenges with the next project taking place in the Summer 2012.

Much praise must go to the team - Michael Erwin, Michael Walkling, James Garner & Simon Bird for their diligence and achievement. As well as a big thanks to the directors for their trust and support of this project.

The [AMSTERDAM] iconic bridge design team at work

Please click here to download our full size "Effigy of Movement and Tension" design proposal sheet.

Please click here to view our pre-submission article for the [AMSTERDAM] iconic pedestrian bridge competition.

Why not click here and subscribe to keep up-to-date with our future competitions. Alternatively you can follow us on twitter, facebook or linkedin.

Please feel free to comment below.

Urban regeneration in Bristol ignites inspired design flare - by Lee Hankins

2012-02-21T11:33:00.000Z

It has been a pleasure as well as an education to complete the design of a scheme of this nature and magnitude.

This opportunity has arisen as part of my Part 2 Architecture Degree at De Montfort University in Leicester from which I have now graduated after nine years of hard work.

Photo render external of Avonmouth Docks project in Bristol

The selected design challenge, initiated in my final year, was to design a new cruise ship terminal within the Avonmouth Docks in Bristol to provide new opportunities for the city.

Photo render internal of Avonmouth Docks project in Bristol

This represented an exciting opportunity to allow architecture to mould the surrounding area into an extremely prominent destination. The new buildings and facilities include a new cruise ship terminal with conference facilities, bars and cafes along the waterfront and a new bus and train station.

Photo renders elevations of Avonmouth Docks project in Bristol

The main design element of the project was centred around the new cruise ship terminal and conference centre, or the 'Hub' as it was named.

Physical model photo of Avonmouth Docks project in Bristol

Sustainability...the entire eastern facade of the building is made up from purpose designed 'thermal cubes' which act as a 'jumper' for the building in the winter allowing it to draw hot air for use by the heating system and also hot water.

In the summer months the thermal cubes are used to purge hot air from the building using a series of valves and ducts. All of this is achieved whilst maintaining transparency of the facade and creating a gradual transition from the public space on the plaza to the high security internal space of the terminal building.

Custom designed thermal cube

During my nine years, I have undertaken many design projects and have completed many assignments including two dissertations; ‘Sustainability in Buildings for Healthcare’ and ‘Buildings that Teach’, investigating how the design of educational buildings affects child psychology and their development and learning. Given that philosophies promoting faster learning are similar to those that promote good health, both of these dissertations proved helpful in practice working in the healthcare department of brp architects.

Throughout my formal education I have obtained thirteen years office experience. The next stage for me is to complete my Part 3 to become a fully qualified Architect which I will be starting this coming September.

- Lee Hankins -

Zumtobel Photographic Competition: Our considered efforts…

2012-02-08T17:03:00.002Z

This competition has exhibited some inspiring and thought provoking photos over the years. We are therefore delighted that the judges have considered 2 of the photos from our our first 2 entries into the competition! Take a look...

Photo by Michael Erwin for brp architects

Zumtobel have kept the competition evenly matched for all applicants by only accepting entries taken with the disposable camera they supply. Infact you will not even see the photos until they have been judged and posted back to you.

Photo by Simon Bird for brp architects

So this is how the competition works…

Fill out a form, Zumtobel post you a disposable camera, you take some photos, send the camera back…and wait for the results in the post. Best of all the whole thing is FREE!

Terms and conditions...

The winning entries feature in building design magazine and online at bdonline - Life in film: Zumtobel Photographic Competition (login required)

Going Green in the Green Belt…

2012-02-03T10:41:00.001Z

Firstly…the final testimony to the success of this building rests with the occupiers who embarked on the journey for new premises;

“It is a wonderful building ….nothing but praise from the patients, the doctors and staff ecstatic. It must be very satisfying to see a set of drawings change into the real thing – and then see that it was all that was hoped for.”
Alan Johnston – Senior Partner WWGP

The Warrens 'State of the art' Medical Surgery, Wirral - Winter photo

What began with an open public procurement process came to a dramatic close in January 2012 with the handing over of the keys to The West Wirral Group Practice and NHS Wirral.

Through a rigorous site search process the team identified all sites that satisfied the development criteria. The final scoring of the sites determined that whilst still highly contentious, the former Warrens Nursery site was the most appropriate, if not the only one available.

The Warrens 'State of the art' Medical Surgery, Wirral - Interior photo

Mindful that planning approval in the green belt can be highly elusive; there was no certainty that the proposals would be granted permission. During the initial stages brp worked closely with both Solicitors and a Barrister specialising in planning law to ensure as far as possible that the scheme minimised the physical, ecological and visual impact on the green belt in order to maximise the proposal’s chances of approval.

A truly sustainable proposal was developed incorperating numerous features to assist integrating the building into it’s context and minimise impact.

These include but are not restricted to;-

Lowering of the building into the ground in order to maintain the silhouette of the broadleaf woodland backdrop.
Incorporating rustic materials that would in time mellow and harmonise with the backdrop, including natural stonework, natural green oak cladding and a sedum planted roof.
Creating connecting vehicular and pedestrian access routes in to the site that meander in order to obscure the building from beyond the site.
Utilising and sympathetically adapting existing access points while disturbing the site boundary as little as possible.
Surface water run-off facilitated through the green roof and permeable paving systems
Swales and balancing features.

The design also embraces sustainable technology and design including:

Passive natural ventilation
Air tightness standards
High thermal mass
solar heating

The Warrens 'State of the art' Medical Surgery, Wirral - Summer visual

The state of the art 2000+m2 medical surgery provides:-

14 GP Consulting Rooms
4 Nurse Consulting Rooms
3 Nurse Treatment Rooms
Minor Procedures Suite
A further 13 flexible and dedicated clinical rooms
Health Education Room
Community Nursing Team Base
Staff accommodation.
Pharmacy

The site its self, a former redundant horticultural facility, provides:

98 delicately considered car parking spaces
Meadow grass and wild flower areas
New formal planting areas
Raised land features integrating the building into the site

The accommodation is arranged over two floors in order to minimise the overall footprint. The curved plan of the main building breaks down the scale externally. The use of two storey internal spaces with single storey eternal projections creates a light and airy feel to the building environment.

The Warrens 'State of the art' Medical Surgery, Wirral - Winter photos

The central entrance, reception and waiting room have a strong external presence and from these central locations the three wings of accommodation radiate on both floors providing for short internal travel distances. The first floor waiting room is galleried over that on the ground floor providing an essential two-way link with reception.

In addition to the core architectural service provided by brp architects, brp environmental also provided sustainability guidance and BREEAM assessor services achieving a BREEAM 'Excellent' rating in the process.

We feel that the end result is a credit to all concerned.

Iconic pedestrian bridge design in Amsterdam begins...

2012-01-27T16:51:00.001Z

[UPDATE] Click here to see our final submission!

To undertake the design of a near boundless scheme of this nature is an aspiration for many architects and engineers alike.

2012 has seen the start of brp architects' venture into foreign grounds – both geographically and in design challenges.

The first project, of many to come, is the involvement within 'Architectural Competition Concours d'Architecture' '[AC-CA]' to design an iconic pedestrian bridge in the heart of Amsterdam.

Design meeting for iconic pedestrian bridge in Amsterdam

The design is to reflect contemporary design tendencies, consider urban insertion and create a new architectural symbol for an European capital city.

The iconic pedestrian bridge in amsterdam will be located on Amstel 51 in the front of the Hermitage Museum on the east bank of the Amstel River. Acting as a new gateway to the Hermitage Amsterdam Museum and will create direct access from the East bank of the Amstel canal.

The new 90m long footbridge will serve existing communities, neighbourhoods and visitors. Incorporated with the design of the bridge will be a café, bicycle repair shop, offices, wash & changing facilities and plant room/storage.

Design concept sketch for iconic pedestrian bridge in Amsterdam

Following the deconstruction of the site and development of conceptual ideas based on movements and tensions, the team, Michael Walkling, James Garner, Simon Bird and Michael Erwin, are currently finalising the design and fully employing the use of parametric design tools to aid them.

The scheme will be concluded before the end of February so please revisit or subscribe to our blog to keep updated with our progress.

Old and new united with outstanding success...

2012-01-19T12:07:00.002Z

This exciting project to revitalise a 1760’s listed building has culminated in a striking relationship between the refurbished existing building and the modern yet sympathetic extension.

The Boulevard Medical Practice on Savile Park Road in Halifax opened its doors before Christmas 2011.

The listed building, a former tax collectors house and more recently the site of the former Holy Trinity Junior School, now accommodates a state of the art 1000m2 medical surgery providing: -

Nine Consulting Rooms
Three Treatment Rooms
Health Education room
Staff accommodation.
Pharmacy

The overall design needed to be a considered reaction to the conservation area and the listed building, palettes of materials were built up together with the scale and massing of the extension in close consultation with the local planners and conservation officers.

The project attracted a lot of public attention as many of the local residents and patients went to the former Holy Trinity Junior School and were keen to see the building saved and restored to its former glory.

The existing listed building in Halifax was a former tax office and school

A strategy of conservation techniques to preserve the existing features of the listed building were employed but after careful consideration it was decided that the extensions should be contemporary reflecting the locality in the choice of materials.

Work started in earnest after the in depth consultation and design process and following the demolition of the previous 1960's extensions. The original main listed building was then revealed in all its glory for the first time in forty years! Features and walls to the listed building were reinstated where the previous extensions had damaged the fabric and the new extension was created with ribbons of curtain walling being used to lightly join the old and the new. The extensions are an interplay of materials carefully selected to sit comfortably with the local and listed building context in a contemporary way, the only modern intervention externally in the existing building is the addition of a lightweight small bay window that is positioned in an opening that was previously covered up by the 1960's extensions.

Construction photo of The Boulevard Medical Centre, Halifax

Upon entering via the main entrance the building opens out into a dramatic double height atrium space that floods the waiting area with natural daylight and ventilation. The staff accommodation and consulting rooms in the existing building respond delicately to the many original features whilst maintaining current infection control and design guidance legislation and the rooms in the new extension compliment this with clean lines and contemporary features.

From both a conservation and a users point of view this project has been successfully received by local users and groups alike.

"We are thrilled by the new surgery development but it’s doubly brilliant that we have been able to save a beautiful old building." Practice Manager Boulevard Medical practice (source: Halifax Courier)

Happy Christmas 2011...

2011-12-05T16:24:00.001Z

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