Throughout 2023 and 2024, we’ve had the pleasure of having Hannah Wilkie join our team as part of her student placement. Over the past 12 months, Hannah has collaborated with Project Leads on numerous exciting projects, becoming an integral part of our team. From participating in the Three Peaks Challenge and helping organise team social events to eagerly joining us for lunch outings, Hannah has truly made her mark. Join us as we catch up with Hannah and hear about her experience at Urban Edge.

Initial expectations vs reality: How did the actual experience of working at Urban Edge compare to your expectations before you started your placement?

“The experience of working for Urban Edge exceeded my expectations in many ways. Before starting my placement, I expected to mainly observe and assist with minor tasks. However, I have been actively involved in various projects from initial design discussions to site visits. Over the year, my skill set has improved massively, which I owe to the supportive environment at Urban Edge. Their mentorship helped me gain confidence and proficiency. The opportunity to contribute to real projects provided a much deeper understanding of the field whilst highlighting the importance of teamwork, communication and adaptability in architecture.”

Key projects: Can you describe the projects you worked on and your role in them? Which project are you most proud of, and why?

“During my placement, I worked on a variety of projects, primarily creating CGI visualisations to present to clients. My task usually involves modelling existing buildings in Sketchup using 2D CAD plans, before rendering the proposed designs on Enscape. My tasks ranged from small pod schemes to large-scale retirement villages. One project I am particularly proud of, is a food and beverage scheme located next to a lake. This project challenged my software skills and developed my understanding of context and the public realm. I successfully captured the desired mood and atmosphere to present to the client, and it received positive feedback.

Additionally, I am proud of other projects where I had the opportunity to incorporate my own ideas, such as an office scheme where I designed the floorplan layout using AutoCAD before modelling and rendering in Sketchup and Enscape. This project allowed me to think about colour, texture, materiality and lighting. This helped me understand the difference between space planning and design. These experiences allowed me to apply my creativity and skills in real-world settings, significantly enhancing my confidence creating architectural visualisations.”

Skills development: What new skills or techniques have you learned during your placement? How have you applied these skills to your work?

“During my placement, I developed several skills, enhancing my capabilities as an aspiring architect. One major area of growth was my knowledge using SketchUp and Enscape, greatly improving my efficiency and the quality of my work. I have also improved my teamwork, time management and communication skills. Effective communication became crucial in presenting ideas and understanding client feedback, which I then applied to refine my designs. These experiences not only expanded my technical skill set but also boosted my confidence in applying creative solutions to real-world challenges.”

Professional growth: In what ways do you feel you have grown professionally over the past six months?

“I have experienced significant professional growth through my software and organisational skills advancing, and my understanding of working in an office environment. This will be beneficial when returning to university. I have been exposed to small client meetings, where I have observed the high level of professionalism that the architect must achieve when presenting an idea to a client. I also participated in large group meetings, which highlighted the challenge of creating designs that accommodate diverse opinions. These experiences have improved my ability to articulate design ideas and give, and receive, constructive feedback. Attending site visits at different stages of construction has been incredibly beneficial as a student. These visits allowed me to witness the practical application of architectural concepts and construction techniques, whilst showing the various phases of a project.”

Mentorship and support: How did the mentorship and support from your colleagues contribute to your learning experience?

“The mentorship and support from the Urban Edge team, has shaped my learning experience during this placement. They have provided guidance and encouragement to push myself and get involved through observation and participation. Many colleagues have taken time to offer constructive critiques and share their expertise. This feedback was invaluable in helping me refine my techniques and improve the quality of my outputs. They have also helped with technical skills, introducing me to advanced features in SketchUp and Enscape, improving quality and productivity. Urban Edge have created a supportive environment where I felt comfortable to grow. My confidence in applying my own design ideas has increased. Having the opportunity to contribute creatively to projects, has reinforced my belief in my abilities and inspired me to take on more ambitious challenges.”

Design philosophy: How has this placement influenced your design philosophy or approach to architecture?

“My placement experience has influenced my design philosophy and enhanced my approach. It has deepened my commitment to sustainability as I have worked on projects involving the refurbishment of existing structures. This approach has taught me to appreciate the potential of existing structures, leading to more creative and sustainable design solutions. Linking to this is cultural sensitivity and ensuring that new developments enhance rather than detract from their surroundings. I have learnt about the importance of designing spaces that are functional and adaptable to various needs. Flexibility ensures spaces can evolve with changing user requirements. Well-being and comfort is also one of my key values. This placement has allowed me to observe and understand design decisions in terms of natural light, ventilation and ergonomics, creating environments that promote physical and mental well-being.”

Career aspirations: How has this placement shaped your career aspirations in architecture?

“This placement has provided practical insights and hands-on experience showing the challenges and rewards, validating my passion for the field. It is a career path which requires a lot of hard work, time and dedication but is a very rewarding profession as aesthetically pleasing buildings can contribute positively to the built environment and well-being of their occupants. This experience has highlighted how much there is to learn and grow within the field of architecture. This continuous learning aspect excites me and confirms my decision to commit to this ever-evolving profession.”

Future learning: What areas of architecture or design are you more interested in exploring as a result of your placement?

!I am excited to pursue further learning in sustainable architecture, historic preservation, interior architecture and landscape design, particularly exploring how outdoor spaces can be designed to complement and enhance built environments. Urban Edge creates net-zero carbon retirement villages. Due to this I have developed an interest in community focused design, so aim to develop my learning with inclusive, accessible and engaging public spaces that serve diverse populations.”

On July 10th 2024, the Urban Edge team took up the unforgettable challenge of tackling the Three Peaks! After a total of 26 miles and 3,000m of ascent, it’s safe to say that the team deserve a round of applause for their fearless nature and their ability to never give up when facing such a gruelling challenge. 

Here’s what faced the team on their Three Peaks adventure: 

Ben Nevis – The ever-changing weather made this climb difficult, changing every five minutes from bright sunshine to deep fog and heavy winds. The team powered through whilst listening to England play in the semi-finals of the Euros for extra motivation. The views were breathtaking, and on the descent, they were treated to a lovely pink sky and picturesque views and the sun set over the mountain.

Scafell Pike – Whilst this was the shortest mountain of the three, this climb was the steepest, and most difficult. Some injuries were picked up on the way, however the team made it to the top fuelled by snack bars and were rewarded with views of some low flying military aircraft training in the valleys below. 

Snowdon – The busiest of the three mountains, meant the team had lots of conversations with climbers and visitors. Unfortunately, the cloud was thick when they reached this summit, so there wasn’t much of a view. The team avoided the temptation to get the train down, no matter how much they ached. Although team member Ricky was tempted to do a ‘James Bond’ manoeuvre and jump on the train! At the bottom of Snowdon, the team were left exhausted from their three climbs but in good spirits. They celebrated their achievement with a well-deserved cooked breakfast and shared memories they will never forget. 

The Three Peaks Challenge stands as a powerful testament to Urban Edge’s team-building spirit. We take pride in witnessing how the team collectively overcame obstacles, fatigue and solved problems together. This week the team have celebrated their success, shared stories with loved ones and friends, all whilst cherishing these memories of a lifetime. 

Anthony, a fellow team member, shared his experience: “The Three Peaks Challenge tested our endurance and physical limits. Being part of the team, supporting each other every step of the way and providing motivation when needed was truly rewarding. Additionally, raising funds for Prostate Cancer, a cause close to my family, brought me immense joy.”

A special thank you must go to Directors Russ and Tom for organising this unforgettable experience and let’s all cheer for the team’s success. 

We’re thrilled to share that four exceptional team members have received well-deserved promotions within our organisation. These advancements recognise their remarkable impact on our projects, clients and our culture.

Please join us in congratulating:

Thomas Baines, who has been promoted to Associate. Thomas joined us in 2023, bringing with him 15 years of experience as a senior architect, specialising in retail and commercial projects. He has taken charge of several of our initiatives, including the cutting-edge commercial vehicle accident repair center in Thurrock for Spectrum VR. Thomas is a passionate advocate for BIM and stands out for his meticulous Revit detailing and ability to seamlessly coordinate multidisciplinary team models.

Thomas said: “I’d like to express my gratitude to the Directors for my recent promotion to Associate. I am delighted to have been given this opportunity and I am excited to be able to contribute to the growth of Urban Edge. I’ve recently been spearheading the development of our protocols to ensure compliance with the Building Safety Act through the Building Regulations Principal Designer role and I’m looking forward to developing this role with our team and our clients. We have a diverse skill set in Stamford and combined with our new Nottingham office; it is an exciting time to be part of the Urban Edge team.”

Joanna Espin, who has been promoted to Associate. Joanna joined us in 2023, bringing with her over two decades of architectural expertise. She has collaborated with renowned architects and residential builders, contributing to projects across all RIBA work stages. Joanna’s extensive experience includes working with Listed buildings and creating unique bespoke homes. Currently, she leads our teams on several exciting retirement community projects for Inspired Villages.

“I sincerely appreciate this promotion and the confidence the Directors have shown in me by recognising my contributions to the business and the profession. Thank you for this amazing opportunity to grow and contribute further to our team’s success. I am grateful to our dedicated team and am committed to continuing to share my knowledge and provide career mentoring and support. Building strong working relationships is essential and I aim to pass on the positive influences I’ve encountered throughout my career while upholding the standards of professionalism, integrity, responsibility and the agency that we have in our privileged position as architectural professionals.”

Ricky Maynard, who has been promoted to Associate. Ricky joined us in 2024, bringing with him a robust architectural technology background. His discerning eye for top-notch design and meticulous detailing drives him to create innovative and sustainable solutions for our clients. Ricky has successfully contributed to diverse projects spanning the residential, commercial, healthcare and education sectors. He is currently overseeing the delivery of Widmore Park Retirement Community – an Inspired Villages development comprising 100 high-end apartments and seven cottages.

Ricky said: “I’d like to extend my gratitude to the Directors and my colleagues at Urban Edge for their unwavering support as I step into my new role as an Associate. I am eager to dive into my new responsibilities, fuelled by my own motivation and encouragement from our exceptional team. Looking ahead, I am excited about the future and committed to driving our collective success. Thank you to everyone – I truly appreciate this incredible team and its boundless potential.”

Imogen Joyce, who has been promoted to Graphic Designer. In 2023, Imogen joined us as a junior after graduating from Leeds Arts University, where she specialised in illustration and graphic design. As a multi-talented designer, she fearlessly tackles challenges and takes pride in consistently creating beautiful and impactful designs. Imogen works for our sister company, Urban Inprint, but also supports Urban Edge with planning applications, internal marketing and our social media which has seen remarkable growth under her stewardship.

Imogen said: “Since the day I joined Urban Edge it’s been a delight to work with the team and our clients on a multitude of projects. I’m so grateful to have been promoted to Graphic Designer and would like to thank the team and the Directors for supporting my growth and progression over the last 18 months. I’m super excited to be taking on this new role and continuing to provide a high quality of service to Urban Edge and our clients at Urban Inprint.”

We take immense pride in the accomplishments of these four team members. Their continued growth and success within our practice will undoubtedly contribute to exceptional results for our clients and drive our business forward. Join us in celebrating their well-deserved promotions!

Pictured from left to right: Joanna Espin, Ricky Maynard, Imogen Joyce, Thomas Baines.

We recently had the pleasure of catching up with Charlotte Hall, our 2023 student placement, who has completed her Part I at the University of Loughborough. Observing her apply the skills acquired at Urban Edge to excel and finalise her university projects has been truly rewarding. Below is a glimpse into her academic pursuits and her experiences during the concluding year:

How did you find your last year at university?

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my final year at Loughborough University as I have been able to lead my own interests and explore my passions regarding the future of our environment and what this means for architecture. I have discovered the value of blending the public realm with rigid infrastructure to eliminate boundaries between indoor and outdoor space for the well-being benefits of ourselves and also our climate. This is a topic I wish to explore even further during my Part II studies and I am excited to see where this takes me.”

What was your dissertation on? 

“My dissertation was titled: The contemporary city of the year 2100 – A study into the relationship between the built environment and public realm within our cities 100 years from now. The contemporary city is continuously evolving. With growing climate challenges and compounding technological developments, the future of the relationship between the built environment and the public realm could look significantly different in appearance from that of the present. My study found that the relationship between the built environment and the public realm in a contemporary city in the 2100s is likely to be a united one from undertaking a critical analysis of both architectural case studies as well as digital ones. Landscaping and infrastructure will become harmonious along all axes as the public realm becomes three-dimensional. This implies that architectural practices will change as the public realm will no longer be limited to a single plane as our streets rise alongside infrastructure development.”

Can you tell us more about the arc effect and your studio project?

“Sure! It has been predicted by researchers that the environment will undergo a period of decay until the year 2100, when the World’s population will eventually stabilise at approximately 10 billion. The twenty-second century is known as the breakthrough period as the environment regains its chance to be restored as population factors are no longer pushing against it. However, there is great risk that by this time too little wildlife will remain to be restored. Therefore, I created a typology that protects species that are at risk of endangerment, set in Sheffield, which can then be gradually released back into the city in the twenty-second century once the breakthrough period is reached. The project will become a monument of hope, celebrating the reunition between the people, animals and plants as the ecosystems are opened back up to the city. The protected wildlife will disperse, rejuvenating city life as harmony is restored.”

We are thrilled to observe Charlotte’s remarkable development throughout this year, especially her commitment to a theme that contemplates the future of architecture as a means to safeguard our natural surroundings and future wildlife. We eagerly anticipate her contribution to our team in Nottingham when we welcome her back later in the year.

At Urban Edge, we are a team who love taking on new challenges and embracing every opportunity for adventure. What better way to embody this spirit than by embarking on the Three Peaks Challenge? On July 10th-11th, our brave team will undertake a 24 hour journey to summit the three tallest mountains in the UK: Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon. Let’s delve into what awaits our team this summer:

Ben Nevis: Scotland’s majestic peak
Our challenge begins in the rugged Scottish Highlands. After a 7 hour road trip, we’ll set foot on Ben Nevis, standing proudly at 1,345 metres. Its steep slopes and ever-changing weather will demand resilience and unwavering dedication from our team.

Scafell Pike: Breathtaking views across the nations
Next, we’ll tackle Scafell Pike, reaching an elevation of 978 metres. As we ascend, breathtaking views and landscapes will unfold, encompassing all four nations of the British Isles. The sense of achievement will be as awe-inspiring as the views.

Snowdon: A final test of endurance
Our ultimate challenge awaits on Snowdon, a 1,085 metre mountain. Here, our hard work and determination will shine. As fatigue sets in, our team will rally together, sharing words of encouragement and pushing through the final stretch as they accomplish all three peaks!

As the clock ticks down to July 10th, we’ve already begun lacing up our hiking boots and starting our training as we embark on the start of this incredible adventure. Stay tuned as we share our commitment to our Three Peaks Challenge via our social media channels. Follow us on this exhilarating journey as we aim to conquer the peaks!

We are delighted to announce that four of our talented and dedicated team members have been promoted to senior positions within our architectural practice. These promotions reflect their outstanding contributions to our projects, clients, and culture, as well as their leadership and vision for the future of our practice.

Please join us in congratulating:

Dave Frost, who has been promoted to Director. Having joined us in 2008 in our formative years, Dave has grown along with the practice, closely managing a team of like-minded creative and technical staff. He has an endless passion for contemporary design along with a keen interest in sustainable architecture and construction. Dave has also presented at several conferences and webinars on topics such as sustainability and more recently retail repurposing and has shared his expertise on introducing drive-through restaurants to existing retail parks to help owners maximise the value of their assets.

Dave said: “I am extremely grateful and honoured to be promoted to Director at Urban Edge. Throughout my 15 years at the practice the Directors and my fellow colleagues have mentored me and supported my growth within the business. I am very excited to be taking on my new role and I will continue to ensure that our clients receive the best possible level of service, alongside mentoring the strong pool of talent that we have within the practice so that they too can meet their own career aspirations.”

Alexandros Marcoulides, who has been promoted to Senior Associate Director. Alex joined us in 2013 as an Architect, having previously worked at renowned London practices including John McAslan + Partners, Allies and Morrison and Zaha Hadid Architects. He has successfully managed complex and challenging projects across various sectors, such as Caledonia Park, Gretna, Ampfield Meadows Retirement Community and Purley Way, Croydon. Alex is a highly skilled and reliable member of the team who ensures quality and efficiency throughout the project lifecycle.

Alex said: “I would like to thank the Directors for my recent promotion and look forward to the new challenges and opportunities this new role presents. I am very excited to work closely with the team and will endeavour to continue making a positive impact within Urban Edge. Additionally, I’d like to say a further big thank you to my colleagues and clients who have helped and supported me on this journey.”

Ben Doherty, who has been promoted to Senior Associate Director. Ben joined us in 2021 as an Associate Director and has impressed us with his strong technical capabilities and keen attention to architectural detailing. He has previously worked on the design and delivery of high-end multi-residential schemes, such as the much-heralded 178 apartment Connor building located in Sydney’s Central Park and The Frederick, a 26-storey tower in Sydney’s Green Square. Ben is passionate about the user experience and identity of every new space he creates.

Ben said: “I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to the Directors for my recent promotion to Senior Associate Director. I am honoured to have been given this opportunity and I am excited to continue contributing to the success of our practice. I would also like to thank the members of the architectural and graphics teams for your continued support, guidance, and encouragement. Your expertise and hard work have been invaluable. I look forward to continuing to work with you all in my new role and I assure you that I will do everything in my power to exceed expectations.”

Wioleta Bychawska, who has been promoted to Associate. Wioleta joined us in 2014 as a Designer and has demonstrated her ability and creativity in designing sustainable and attractive buildings. She has previously worked on several of our residential schemes and is responsible for creating the sensitively designed retirement communities at Caddington, Dore and Sonning Common on behalf of Inspired Villages. Wioleta also has substantial experience of conceptual and detailed design in the retail sector gained working on projects such as Nando’s striking ‘eco-restaurant’ in Cambridge, a new-build 160,000 sq.ft retail development in Chelmsford and a series of initiatives at Monks Cross Shopping Park in York.

Wioleta said: “Thank you to the Directors for recognising my hard work and believing I was ready to take on a new role and more responsibility. I am eager to get started and I feel extremely motivated and encouraged by their support. I cannot wait to learn more about my new role in this amazing team.”

We are immensely proud of these four team members and their achievements, and we look forward to their continued growth and success within our practice. We are confident that they will help us continue to deliver exceptional design solutions for our clients and help drive our business forwards. Please join us in celebrating their promotions!

Pictured from left to right: Alexandros Marcoulides, Wioleta Bychawska, Ben Doherty, Dave Frost.

During the summer of 2023 we had student Lucy Pepper join us for a week’s insight into the architectural industry and life at Urban Edge. Over the course of the week, Lucy spent time with different members of staff from around the office to understand the different stages within architecture and to see how all their work comes together to create the final result.

A few weeks later we brought Lucy in for a follow-up meeting to offer her portfolio and career advice before she went into her final year at university. Here’s what Lucy thought about her experience:

“As a Part 1 Architecture student, I was looking for the opportunity to undertake some in-practice experience during my studies. Urban Edge offered me a few days earlier this summer to understand the inner workings of an architectural practice.

My time there involved meeting many members of the team, appreciating their specialised roles within the design process and their respective career backgrounds. Not only did I learn how the practice operates, but I was also given the opportunity to play around with new software and learn skills I can now apply back at university.

The Urban Edge team were such a supportive and accommodating group of people who made me feel instantly welcome. What’s more, they were always invested in helping me with the skills I wanted to improve on.

While my university education is crucial for my future career, the industry experience I gained at Urban Edge has proven fundamental too.”

International Women’s Day is a day to reflect, embrace and celebrate women around the world. As part of International Women’s Day, we would like to celebrate and showcase some of the women in our office and their creative talents. This week we caught up with Charlotte Hall, a very talented Architectural Assistant who is currently on her university placement with us. Charlotte has gone from strength-to-strength since starting her BArch (Hons) Architecture at Loughborough University. She specialises in the art of CGIs and 3D rendering and recently received the Year 2 Best 3D Visualisation Award.

What made you choose Urban Edge as the company you would like to go on placement with?
“I was interested in Urban Edge as they work on a variety of projects in a variety of sectors so I would and have been able to gain a broad spectrum of knowledge. This has enabled me to distinguish what areas I enjoy the most and where I need further skill development to achieve my professional goals.”

What are your day-to-day responsibilities within Urban Edge?
“I typically work on modelling existing buildings in SketchUp based off 2D CAD plans, designing public spaces and rendering proposed design options in Enscape to submit to the client for review. I am also involved in feasibility studies where I have been able to explore my creative ideas at a professional level by producing a multitude of different design options for projects. I get the chance to work with the whole team every day simply by being involved in so many projects simultaneously! This has enabled me to gain a broad spectrum of knowledge by learning from each of my colleagues.”

What have you learnt so far whilst being with Urban Edge?
“I have learnt new software, the process of work and how to communicate ideas to clients effectively and clearly through observing meetings. I have also gained an understanding of how to communicate a concept via sketches, renders, drawings, and presentations by having an involvement in a variety of projects in different sectors and being able to see how this differs from sector to sector.”

What has been your favourite project to work on and why?
“I recently worked on a project to design a public square which I found really enjoyable because I love creating spaces where communities can come together and enhance neighbourhood relationships through design.”

How has working on live projects improved your practice and knowledge within the industry?
“Working on live projects has allowed me to be exposed to multiple stages of work and begin to understand the role of the Architect vs the contractor and others involved, as well as how they collaborate together.”

Has this placement given you opportunities to meet your learning goals?
“Definitely! I have been exposed to new software that I have had to pick up quickly which will be beneficial when I return for my final year at university as I will be able to utilise a greater range of techniques to communicate my designs. I have also been exposed to client meetings which has enabled me to observe first-hand the level of professionalism that the Architect must achieve when conversing with clients.”

Has this placement helped you to decide if this is the type of work that you wish to pursue?
“Yes, architecture in practice is a lot different to architecture at university so being exposed to live projects has helped me to understand the reality of being an Architect. It has solidified my career path as I now know how much I enjoy working with others in a practice to achieve and exceed the client’s vision.”

What specific knowledge have you learnt or enhanced during this placement?
“I have been able to gain an insight of what is required for each of the RIBA stages of work, helping me understand what is required within an Architect’s role. I have been mostly working in Stages 1-3 so I have an in-depth understanding of what is required within the concept, feasibility and planning stages by being involved in concept design but also the submission of planning applications. I have had the opportunity to be involved in client meetings where I have been able to observe how to communicate an idea clearly to a client which will be a very useful skill to take back to university.”

What practical skills have you applied or further developed during this placement?
“I have been able to develop my 3D rendering skills by using Enscape to produce realistic and well-composed images. I really enjoy utilising this skill as it showcases the full potential of the design to the client and I have found it very rewarding training others in this software, helping them progress with their own professional development whilst moving forward with my own.”

Are there any Architects that have inspired you?
“Daniel Libeskind has inspired me through his ability to celebrate both tradition and innovation particularly in his design for the Royal Ontario Museum which uses the juxtaposition of the old and the new to enhance each other’s features, creating a luminous beacon of tourism.”

What has been your favourite memory so far at Urban Edge?
“The Christmas party is my favourite memory so far as playing Taskmaster was a great team building exercise and it was very enjoyable seeing a different side to everyone, getting to know them outside of the office.”

Is there any advice you would give to future students on placement?
“Throw yourself into the work and get involved in office discussions to make the most out of your experience. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and approach work colleagues for advice, they all want to help you and are there for your support.”

Like many businesses throughout the world, Urban Edge had to adapt very quickly to the global Coronavirus emergency. Just prior to the pandemic taking its hold, our practice had already started to look at more flexible staff working arrangements and our investment in an IT infrastructure to ensure everybody could work successfully from home paid dividends. It ensured quick response rates and continuity for clients during lockdown, whilst also allowing our teams to collaborate and maintain a consistent level of service, understanding and creativity on projects.

As the vaccination programme gathered pace, Coronavirus replication numbers dropped and economic activity resumed at pace across the country, so we started to plan for the future. As an inclusive and supportive business, it was imperative that staff were fully engaged in the process through a series of group discussions to gauge their thoughts on home-versus-office working and the most effective way of operating moving forward.

Whilst there were inevitably a mix of ideas, it was apparent that most people wanted a return to the office for at least two to three days a week. The main reasons cited related to the social and cultural aspects of office life, as well as the need to more effectively collaborate.

Director, Tom McNamara, explains further: “Although video conferencing through Teams or Zoom proved effective throughout the various lockdown periods, it could never replace face-to-face interaction. Architecture is a collaborative and creative process that benefits greatly from in-person interactions within the design team. We thrive on being able to sit around a table as a team, brainstorming ideas with enthusiasm and reaching the creative conclusions for which we are renowned.”

Taking into account the views expressed by staff, we conducted some remodelling on our current office space to see how it could be rearranged to create the optimal working environment. Whilst health and wellbeing were inevitably key considerations, it was clear that the office should no longer be just a place to sit at a desk, but a space to encourage culture and community, promote collaboration and improve operational efficiencies through the natural communication of information and ideas. Face-to-face interaction within the office environment, unlike an impersonal email or video communication, ensures better clarification and fosters quicker understanding, whilst also helping new staff to learn about the business and understand the way things are done.

“We had appointed some 13 new members of staff during the lockdown period,” continues Tom, “and the shorter-than-usual induction periods and lack of office time necessitated by the ‘Work from Home’ mandate was tough on them. A return to the workspace means we now have the benefit of longer periods of induction in the office for new starters, allowing them to get to know people, understand a little bit more about the company culture and how the office works. Likewise, our younger and graduate staff can learn so much when they’re in the office just listening to conversations and how other people deal with certain situations. So, whilst there are many benefits to working from home, there are also advantages to working in an office, such as building social connections, improved communication and understanding, increased productivity and career progression.”

Agile and flexible

During and between the lockdown periods, as staff transitioned to a hybrid form of working, desktop computers were changed to laptops to allow for more agility and flexibility in the face of a constantly evolving situation. These changes have also informed the new office layout, with some of the existing desk space removed from the main studio and given over to collaborative areas. At the same time, two large meeting pods have been installed – these offer acoustic attenuation and enable some privacy and quieter meetings whilst still in an open office environment.

Initially, following the office refurbishment, around half of the existing desk space was removed, but careful analysis of use-pattern data has seen the ratio of desk space increased to two thirds of the original number to ensure maximum efficiency. The desks have been optimised for hot desking, with docking stations and adjustable monitors to allow staff to create their own bespoke workspace. There are also a mix of different workspaces, suitable for particular tasks or workflow that staff can book via their mobile or laptop using an app called WiggleDesk. We are proud to be an early adopter of the innovative desk-booking tool that was devised by former Google data scientist William Wildridge.

“As a forward-thinking practice, we’re thrilled to be trialling technology that harnesses the power of AI and data visualisation to allow us to operate with maximum flexibility and maintain a safe environment,” explains Tom. “The app allows you to see what desks are available on each day, book and unbook the appropriate space for your requirements; it also includes reminders to clean your workstation once you’ve finished, reinforcing all the important hygiene messaging that people expect and understand in this post Covid world.”

From informal to formal

Our second office on the other side of the Scotgate Mews courtyard has also undergone a significant makeover. Previously a more traditional office set up, the new space has been designed purposefully with maximum flexibility in mind, and can be used as both a conference suite and breakout area for staff. Flexible seating and desks can be arranged for more casual interactions or informal meetings, but can easily be adapted to create a more traditional and formal meeting space. The inclusion of a large interactive screen will allow clients or staff working remotely to join design team meetings and allow for more dynamic presentations once clients and other design team members return fully to in-person activity.

The courtyard itself – weather permitting – is also a useful break-out space and can be used for informal staff meetings and events. During the summer, the practice used the courtyard space to gather all staff together in person, discuss the highs and lows of the previous year and update them on the reconfiguration of the offices. Following a year largely working from home, it was also a useful period for staff not only to reacquaint themselves with each other, but get to know some of the new starters.

“After such a long period working remotely, we fully understood that some people might have some anxieties about returning to the office. Having the ability to reconnect everybody outdoors in a socially distanced way – yet also still within the realm of the offices – was a great way to reintroduce staff to each other and help ease any anxieties about returning to the workplace. For new members of staff who joined us during the lockdown period, this was also their first opportunity to meet everybody in person. It proved to be an incredibly positive day.”

Community benefits

Whilst the practice works nationally, we have always cared passionately about the town and region where our offices are located and have always sought to give something back to the area that has contributed so much to our success. Reaching out to the local community through local social groups and networks, all the surplus fixtures and fittings, including chairs, desks and cabinets, were given new homes locally.

We have also donated the studio’s previous large interactive screen to the Bourne Arts and Community Trust where it will be used at the charity’s base, the Grade II Listed Wake House in Bourne which serves as a Community Centre with a variety of rooms to hire for groups, events and meetings.

Desktop PCs that were replaced by laptops have been offered to staff for a nominal fee, with the proceeds going to the Urban Edge Foundation – a charity set up to raise funds and awareness for established charities such as The Alzheimer’s Society and Prostate Cancer UK.

Where new office furniture has been introduced, every effort has been made to source recycled or upcycled products from local suppliers.

Social and cultural context

There has been much conjecture about the future of the office amongst business leaders and the media alike over the last two years. The reality is that the office is here to stay, but perhaps not in the same way that it existed pre-pandemic. As we have found through our own experiences, an attractive office must now be more than just desks, chair and computers, and as much about social and cultural context.

“As we emerge from the pandemic, there is a lot of positivity around our growing pipeline of work and the growth of the business moving forward,” says Tom. “Our office will play an essential role in the future of Urban Edge, not just as a physical manifestation of the business, but as our cultural heart. A place where we can connect and collaborate, teach and learn, progress and build. A place where a special kind of alchemy occurs to create innovative solutions for clients and personal and professional fulfilment for staff.”

Urban Edge is delighted to introduce Ben Doherty as a new Associate Director.

Recently returned from Australia where he was Senior Project Leader for Smart Design Studio in New South Wales, Ben is a specialist in the design and delivery of high-end multi-residential schemes, such as the much-heralded 178 apartment Connor building at the gateway to one of Sydney’s most popular urban precincts. Prior to his time in Australia, Ben worked on a number of large-scale residential schemes in the London studio of Horden Cherry Lee, including Newfoundland, a 58 storey residential tower in Canary Wharf.

Ben’s initial area of focus at Urban Edge is on the later living sector, utilising the knowledge, techniques and methodologies gained from experience on major projects to evolve, develop and improve efficiencies and processes.

“I’ve been really impressed with the enthusiasm and willingness to learn at Urban Edge,” says Ben. “I see a real opportunity to apply some of my skills to the practice, especially on some of the large-scale projects, and introduce some of the processes and ways of working from other studio environments that I know work really well. It’s about introducing something new and fresh, perhaps offering a slightly different way of looking at things and seeing whether that approach can make a difference.”

Moving back to the UK and experiencing the challenges of remotely managing a team on the other side of the world via video communications, Ben’s glad to be back in a thriving studio environment.

We have recently remodelled our current office space to create the optimal working environment for our staff following the upheaval of the restrictions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Whilst health and wellbeing have inevitably been key considerations in the reconfiguration, it was clear that the office should no longer be just a place to sit at a desk, but a space to encourage culture and community, promote collaboration and improve operational efficiencies through the natural communication of information and ideas.

“After the last two years, where many staff have been working from home and there are new faces they’ve never even met, I’m sure it’s like coming into a totally new studio environment,” says Ben. “The ability to work remotely does have some positives, but nothing beats sitting with your team and discussing work holistically. I love being in a studio environment where everyone’s feeding off each other. And when I say studio, I don’t mean a bunch of people sat around desks; a studio for me is all about collaboration, detail paper, sketching, architectural drawings and material samples that you can immerse yourself in. If everything is just digital, it can feel a little removed.”

As someone who has a passion for the visual nature of design, one of the first things Ben has introduced to our studio are magnetic whiteboards where ongoing work will be pinned up and staff will be encouraged to come together to review and analyse as a team. “It’s about collaboration, people coming together to read plans and drawings holistically rather than locally – it’s the perfect mechanism for improving design quickly and efficiently,” explains Ben.

Moving forward, Ben will be looking to apply some of the same efficiencies and processes across all the sectors in which we operate. He also wants to play an active part in encouraging the next generation of architects. “I love mentoring and I spent a lot of time mentoring Part I and II architecture students at my previous practice. I think back to some of those individuals who mentored me early on in my career and helped give me a greater understanding of design, technical detail and delivery and I can think of no greater compliment than being able to pass on that knowledge and everything I’ve learned since.

Going into any profession after three years of education is always daunting, none more so than architecture. Whilst we are taught a variety of software and design methodologies, there is little exposure to the reality of working within an architectural practice. The BArch course allows you to develop the relevant design and technical skills which prepare you for the role of an Architectural Assistant, but working within the industry gives you the important real-life experience of moving projects through the RIBA Plan of work stages 1-7.

During my Part 1 placement year at Urban Edge, I was involved in a variety of work, from modelling, masterplanning to landscape design, as well as assisting with multiple planning applications in sectors ranging from later living to retail. Within the office I found myself surrounded by a wealth of knowledge and expertise that, when absorbed, informed my future work and fed into my MArch studies, significantly improving the level of detail and quality of design.

I thoroughly appreciated my time at Urban Edge and, having discovered that I enjoy working within a practice more than the educational side, am now more enthused than ever to return to the architecture profession after my Masters study. I have gained knowledge that would have been unobtainable without direct exposure to the industry and I am looking forward to furthering that knowledge and experience in the future.

Thomas Bromley | Architectural Assistant

We are delighted to formally announce the appointment of Darren Hodgson as Senior Associate Director. As part of his role Darren will be working to further expand our workload into the later living sector, whilst helping to further strengthen and grow the business.

Darren has worked for us for 14 years and is an integral part of our management team. He has spent the last year overseeing our continued growth into the later living sector, leading the design and delivery of several projects with Inspired Villages, most notably their first net-zero carbon villages at Millfield Green, Caddington and Ampfield Meadows, Chandlers Ford.

Darren said: “I have spent the last 14 years growing personally with Urban Edge and I am delighted to be afforded the opportunity to shape and grow the business further. Whilst the last couple of years have been tough for all businesses, we have a strong vision for the future and the resilience and talent to continue our successes. Later living is a key sector for the practice, as well as an important growth area for the UK, and I look forward to building on our enviable and growing reputation for the design and delivery of successful later living schemes throughout the country.”

Russell Gay, Director added “This promotion recognises Darren’s personal growth, technical ability, diligence, professionalism and loyalty, he has invested heavily into Urban Edge and we in turn have invested in him. We are delighted that Darren will continue to play a part in the future development of the business.”

We are pleased to announce the start on site of our plans to transform a derelict plastics factory in Croydon into 5,650 sq.m of much-needed employment floorspace. The £8m gateway scheme will result in wider accessibility improvements at Valley Retail & Leisure Park and contribute to the London Borough of Croydon’s long-term objectives for the area.

The design will see the comprehensive redevelopment of the former Stewart Plastics factory site and reconfiguration of adjoining land to provide a high-quality Class B development with associated landscaping and car parking areas and a new link road. The regeneration of this derelict site, vacant since 2012, will deliver significant investment and local employment opportunities for the London Borough of Croydon.

Josh Rowley, Associate Director said: “The commencement of this project represents an important economic boost for Croydon and builds on our strong track record of creating deliverable employment schemes that can achieve commercial success.

“Our extensive experience in opening up opportunities for asset creation on challenging or tired sites has allowed us to develop a workable layout that can meet all the client’s key requirements. Working closely with the client, planning officers and other stakeholders, our design also meets with the London Borough of Croydon’s aspirations to create a gateway development for Valley Retail & Leisure Park, enhancing the aesthetics of the existing environment as well as delivering accessibility improvements for the wider area.”

The scheme will see the development of eight units of employment space, designed across ground and mezzanine floors to reflect the requirements of modern industrial operators as well as the Council’s aspiration to create a gateway to the retail park. A clean and uncomplicated aesthetic uses a simple palette of materials to provide unity and cohesion across the development. The elevations have slender vertical panels to help break down the perceived massing and are punctuated by a series of featured entrances which incorporate tenant signage and glazing. The development has been designed to achieve a BREEAM shell target of ‘Excellent’.

Our design team also built a good relationship with the allocated Designing Out Crime Officer (DOCO) for Croydon and have implemented a number of security measures to ensure the scheme is a safe place to work and visit.

The team also had to take into account several site constraints, including high-voltage cables and underground services. Potential traffic-flow issues with adjacent residential and retail development will be addressed with a new access road to redistribute existing traffic and reduce congestion. Importantly, the new road will create direct access to the retail park, which is home to Ikea, a Vue cinema and shops including Boots and Next, and will open up the site for potential future expansion and intensification in accordance with the Council’s wider plans.

A consistent line of semi-evergreen and deciduous shrubs of varied height, colour, texture and structure, has been proposed to run along the boundary fences fronting onto the access road to create a clean and all-year-round line of vegetation. A planting strategy has been carefully chosen to create an attractive and colourful combination of low-maintenance plants of varied shapes, structures and textures as well as foliage colour and flower in season.

We are delighted to announce the start on site of our latest drive-through project, for Ramoyle Developments Ltd, that will see the construction of two pod units for Burger King and Costa, respectively, at Willerby Business Park in Hull. The scheme will join a growing number of drive-throughs and drive-tos that we have delivered since 2011, with a further 10 currently in design progress or due to start on site.

Explains Josh Rowley, Associate Director: “The market for drive-through food and beverage has increased substantially in the last few years and the number of enquiries that we have received recently is unprecedented. The strong relationships we have forged over the years with all the major operators has given us a deep understanding of their specification and brand requirements and means we can be incredibly efficient in how we deliver their schemes on sometimes challenging sites.”

The drive-through pod units at Willerby Business Park have been designed to respond and relate to the site in which they are located, whilst also reflecting the branding and specification requirement of the tenants. Our design team gave careful consideration to the overall height and siting of the pod units so as not to adversely impact upon the visibility of the other tenants in the business park. The pods will benefit from their positions close to the business park’s entrance and the adjacent roundabout, as they will have good visibility from the nearby traffic routes.

The car park and an area of landscaping in the southern area of the development site will be reconfigured to accommodate the new drive-through units, whilst a retaining wall will be introduced to allow for the difference in levels. At the site entrance the existing raised island will be removed, and a new lay by installed to the west of the access, providing a delivery area for one of the pod units.

“Siting the pods units and their drive-through lanes proved challenging as we needed to retain a certain amount of parking and take into account a number of tree protection orders on the site,” says Josh. “We also had to contend with differing site levels that required both an intelligent design strategy and experience of the requirements of these types of schemes to deliver two accessible drive-through lanes, avoiding the need for cars to journey uphill or restaurant customers having to use long flights of steps or steep ramps from the car park on the other side.”

The design team have also proposed new trees and areas of vegetation to ensure the site retains a vegetation buffer at its border. In doing this, views into the site will be improved, providing greater presence for the existing units as well as the new drive-through pods.

The existing Willerby Business Park is made up of units of a variety of uses, primarily classes D and B. The addition of these new drive-through units for Burger King and Costa, adjacent to a popular leisure centre, will ensure a more diverse range of attractions to the business park and fulfil the client’s aspirations of enhancing the park’s appeal to the public and ensuring its long-term commercial viability.

The scheme is expected to complete in Q3 2021.

Just over a year ago, we had just been crowned ‘Large Business of the Year’ at the 2019 Mercury Business Awards. The award win was the icing on the cake of what was another fantastic year of growth for the business and a year that had seen us oversee the design and delivery of numerous high-profile projects, including the completion of several major retail and leisure destinations, prime mixed-use developments and retirement villages. Of course, nobody could have foreseen what was waiting around the corner!

As we head towards the end of 2020, it’s interesting to reflect on how many of the assets that contributed to us winning the Mercury Business Award have seen us through a year that has been dominated by the global impact of the Coronavirus pandemic. The successful business growth that so impressed the judges was largely down to the fact that we have continued to apply the same rules as we did as a small business as we’ve grown – and that same ethos has been applied throughout the pandemic to great effect. Having created an inclusive and supportive place to work, we were able to involve all staff in the swift and decisive decisions that were required to keep the practice smoothly operating at the height of a national lockdown.

Adapting to the new normal

That’s not to say that the early stages of the first lockdown didn’t test us. Like many businesses, we had to adapt very quickly – and adapt we did! We were fortunate that, just prior to the pandemic taking its hold, we had already started to look at more flexible staff working arrangements – the lockdown immediately accelerated that process and our investment in an IT infrastructure to ensure everybody could work successfully from home has paid dividends. It has ensured quick response rates and continuity for clients, whilst also allowing our teams to collaborate and maintain a consistent level of service, understanding and creativity on projects.

Video conferencing has, in many instances, also proved popular with employees who feel that they can be more efficient when not having to worry about spending time stuck in traffic or on a train when travelling to meetings. These are positive lessons we can take forward post pandemic. However, we cannot wait to get back to being sat around a table as a team, thrashing out our ideas noisily and passionately and reaching the creative and considered conclusions for which we are renowned.

A broad and diverse specialism

As part of our award entry, we detailed how the business had purposefully started to diversify its portfolio as part of the year-on-year growth strategy. That strategy has truly paid off this year, as having a broad and diverse specialism that takes in everything from retail to leisure, later living to residential and has reduced our exposure to any one sector facing difficulties during the national lockdowns.

Inevitably, we saw a dip in retail and leisure work as lockdown measures started to bite, but our later living expertise has very much been in demand and we are working on a number of significant schemes in the sector with several more in the pipeline. Perhaps it is no surprise that the later living sector has come to the fore over the last 12 months, as conversations about how and where older people choose to live have taken on extra meaning during the current health crisis. With many elderly people living in remote locations, in towns and cities where people don’t know their neighbours, or their families and friends live far away, the concern is not only the lack of physical support these older people might need, but also the massive change in the quality of their mental and social lifestyle.

With the UK’s ageing population growing – the Office for National Statistics projects that more than 24 percent of people living in the UK will be aged 65 or older by 2042 – we firmly believe that there needs to be an increase in purpose-built later living communities where older people can socialise within their household and closer neighbourhoods. As this pandemic has proved, retirement villages can provide a controlled environment for the elderly, whilst still allowing for an active social lifestyle.

Whilst retail and leisure has certainly had a rough year, many businesses in the sector are now starting to contemplate a post pandemic future and we are seeing a growing number of enquiries as retail and leisure property owners seek ways to minimise the impact of the last 12 months on their assets. Even before the pandemic, the growth of ecommerce and a change in consumer behaviour had started to have serious impacts on the retail landscape and we have been helping landlords think differently about the spaces they own for a good number of years, especially the opportunities to be had in converting or redeveloping existing assets into alternative or complementary uses such as offices, hotels or even housing. For many landlords, the pandemic has added more urgency to that process and our expertise in the sector places us in a strong position to help.

Connecting to the local community

Whilst our morale has remained strong, we cannot deny that there have been one or two disappointments this year, not least the fact that we had to cancel our annual charity golf day. However, our attendance at last year’s Mercury Business Awards brought us into conversation with a local mental health charity called MindSpace who were there to collect the award for ‘Best Social Enterprise’. The charity was looking for new premises to further expand its offering and to bring together all its existing drop-in and therapy sessions.

Connecting to the local community and giving something back to the area that has contributed so much to the practice’s success has always been at the forefront of our vision. Ever since we met at the Mercury Business Awards and heard about MindSpace’s vital work we were keen to help out in their efforts to find a new and improved space for their work.

Once the unoccupied premises on Broad Street had been identified and secured, a 34-strong volunteer team from Urban Edge set about ripping up old flooring, stripping wallpaper, clearing the garden, and redecorating the interior of the new premises towards the end of the last year in preparation for this year’s opening. It was a brilliant few days, and a great team builder with everyone just getting stuck in. In February this year, we were delighted to see MindSpace finally move into their own larger premises and increase their reach into the community at a time where mental health support is even more important

Confident and forward looking

This year has certainly contrived to throw a lot at us, but we have continued to move forward and have even recruited four new team members during lockdown, including another significant appointee to our growing Landscape team. We have learned some valuable lessons, have significantly invested to ensure robust operational systems can deal with every eventuality, and we finish the year confident and forward looking. So, whilst it’s incredibly difficult to predict what next year may hold, based on our projected workload and the dedication of our hardworking staff, we are cautiously optimistic that 2021 will prove to be a good year for Urban Edge.

Urban Edge Architecture Director, Russell Gay, attended a gala evening at the House of Commons at the end of last month. The prestigious event, hosted by broadcaster and newspaper columnist Julia Hartley-Brewer, with guest speakers including former England footballer Sir Geoff Hurst, was the culmination of year in which the leading architectural practice has sought to inform and influence Government policy as a Best Practice Representative for the Parliamentary Review.

Rubbing shoulders with current and former Government ministers, policy makers and other business leaders in Westminster, Russ took the opportunity to discuss with them some of the most pressing issues facing the UK high street and retail property, as well as the pressing need for quality senior living provision in urban areas.

Also speaking at the event, former Labour Minister and Co-Chairman of the Parliamentary Review, David Blunkett thanked this year’s participants for their valuable insight into their respective industries and stressed the importance of politicians having a firm understanding of the challenges with which British organisations must contend.

“It has been a privilege to take part in this year’s Parliamentary Review and offer our expert insight, knowledge and best practice solutions to the people who make crucial decisions on policy,” said Russell following the House of Commons event. “I was greatly encouraged by Lord Blunkett’s assurances during the Parliamentary Review gala that our testimonies will be taken on board by parliamentarians and fed into future policy.”

The invite to the House of Commons followed Russell being chosen by former Conservative Communities Secretary Lord Pickles to take part in this year’s Parliamentary Review, an influential annual journal that shares best practice amongst the UK’s policy makers and business leaders. Urban Edge Architecture, winner of the ‘Large Business of the Year’ category at the 2019 Mercury Business Awards, was identified by the Parliamentary Review committee as an outstanding leader in its field and a best practice representative of its industry.

“It’s been a terrific year for Urban Edge Architecture,” concludes Russell. “We have overseen the design and delivery of numerous high-profile projects and seen our influence growing, particularly in the senior living sector. Whilst the practice works nationally on a portfolio of retail, specialist residential and leisure developments for high-profile clients, our recent award win and involvement in the Parliamentary Review has also seen our profile rise locally in Stamford and more broadly through Lincolnshire – important for a growing business looking to recruit the very best talent the region has to offer.”

Images courtesy of Westminster Publications.