Old Hill

Under a Design and Build (D&B) scheme, we were instructed as main contractor to construct six retail units with 8 flats above on a tightly packed site, in a location similar to Oxford Street. We identified early on that this project would need to adhere to EWS1 requirements, which meant changing the programme to facilitate this. Daily hoarding movement eased congestion on the busy main street, crucial for maintaining neighbourly relations and pedestrian safety. Collaboration with the design team ensured cultural appropriateness for future residents, for example specialist heating systems were installed to cater to the Jewish community's needs, with no pumps allowed on weekends. Complex roof designs included inset balconies and cantilevered structures, requiring careful airspace management and coordination with nearby schools as this reached over the pedestrian area below the building. Party wall responsibilities and scaffolding licences were assumed by us, due to strained client relations with neighbouring property owners, highlighting the importance of community liaison in challenging urban projects.