As we head up to Leeds for this year’s UKREiiF, and with last week’s local elections fresh in our mind, we’re anticipating some lively conversations on how as an industry we can continue to deliver successful regeneration in uncertain times.
Resilience is more than a buzzword. It comes from being tested, and responding with practical thinking, whilst embracing innovation and nurturing collaborative relationships.
With this in mind, we wanted to share five core principles which continue to underline our approach. Whatever the challenges we strongly believe that we can work together – peers, partners and clients alike – to deliver the much-needed regeneration that supports social and economic renewal and builds the places that our communities need.
Circus Street, Brighton – before and after
1 recognise what makes a place special
We work with the existing social fabric of a place, consolidating its inherent strengths and emotional connections. By starting with the irreplaceable social context, we unite people behind the vision and bring them along on the journey.
2 use what’s there
We use the existing urban grain to deliver places that work. From retrofitting iconic structures, to informing the nature of spaces between buildings, and connecting with existing transport hubs, growing from what’s there is both sustainable and effective.
3 add strong visual identity
Adding bold, distinctive design can revitalise the identity of a place. Restrained, considered use of colour and design details create a strong sense of place that attracts people and drives economic activity.
Karparc, Newcastle-under-Lyme – before and after
4 viability from day one
We are experienced across a range of financial models, interrogating cost and proposing viable solutions from the outset of a project. Our engrained, value-driven way of thinking is deeply tied to our resourceful design approach: using a handful of bold, rational design moves that make a strong impact within tight budgets.
5 work together
Resilience is anchored in the meaningful collaboration between clients, councils, and consultants. It’s this power of collective minds and actions that makes regeneration happen, creating wide reaching value and impacts.
Over three decades, we’ve seen cycles of social and economic change impact different parts of the country at various times. It’s in these uncertain, challenging times that we’ve learnt as a practice, adapted and grown stronger. It’s that experience that we continue to bring to help deliver transformative and regenerative schemes across the regions.
We look forward to continuing the conversation at UKREiiF this week.