Uncategorized
Major Regeneration Project in Vancouver Approved
Having gained consent at the first and second reading, The Passages, a one million square foot mixed use residential development in Vancouver was approved at the City of Surrey Public Hearing and third reading yesterday.
Having gained consent at the first and second reading, The Passages, a one million square foot mixed use residential development in Vancouver was approved at the City of Surrey Public Hearing and third reading yesterday.
The Passages site is at the heart of the emerging Surrey City Centre in Vancouver, where there is a drive towards a high-density, transit-orientated and walkable downtown core to address a critical housing need. The character of tall buildings and how they merge to form a beautiful skyline with humane and diverse streetscapes has been a key design driver.
The proposal for The Passages on Whalley Boulevard is for an open city block, with free-flowing public space at its heart, lined by a mix of uses which aim to serve its residents and the wider City of Surrey. The Passages proposes buildings without a front or back; all façades are on display and active, serving as extensions of the public realm.
There is an opportunity to create an exceptional urban condition by focussing on freedom of movement and public space accessed by a series of passages, leading you to an open piazza at its centre. This is an unusual urban strategy in North America, where city blocks tend to be enclosed, and dense. Therefore, the urban design has chosen to focus on a scheme with an activated heart, bringing movement through the site and offering a wide range of activities for residents and neighbours to use and enjoy. An amenity for the city.
There are three building typologies proposed across the site: Tower, Mansion Block and Point Block. Together they offer a variety of typologies and scale, which individually contribute to the unique character of the development, offering façade variety, texture and family structures, all contributing to offer a stimulating backdrop to the landscaped passages at grade. We have sought to refer to natural forms such as stone for the low-rise buildings, made up from the ground like monolithic carvings. As for the towers these refer to dense vertical forests. The textured bark of trees, tonal references from moss and lichen come with a strong desire to resist ‘flatness’ and complacency associated with residential architecture of this scale.
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Public Housing: A London Renaissance
16.05.2019—18.07.2019, NLA, The Building Centre
The opening of a new exhibition at the NLA this week at London’s Building Centre. A review of current trends in London Estate housing.
The opening of a new exhibition at the NLA this week at London’s Building Centre. A review of current trends in London Estate housing.
“This exhibition shows how London boroughs are working to deliver high-quality, pleasant and affordable homes on estates, smaller sites and large-scale areas of regeneration across London, to create places that can also support the sustainable growth of the capital.”
Alison Brooks Architects have contributed a number of our projects in Kilburn including Ely Court.
The exhibition will open from 16 May to 18 July 2019, at The Building Centre.
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Forest of Fabrication Symposium on ‘Re-Imagining Timber’
3.04.2019 14:00, The Building Centre
Alison presented our work in relation to the innovative use and the future potential of wood in architectural construction, alongside Alex de Rijke of drMM Architects and Amin Taha.
Alison presented our work in relation to the innovative use and the future potential of wood in architectural construction, alongside Alex de Rijke of drMM Architects and Amin Taha.
Other speakers included: David Venables of the American Hardwood Council, our client for The Smile project; and Johannes Rebhahn of specialist timber contractor Wiehag. Thanks to the host of the event, Vanessa Norwood of The Building Centre for facilitating such an interesting discussion that touched on wide ranging themes from technical design, the future of wood as a material in construction, well-being and the management of the world’s forests to provide a sustainable source of construction materials.
[less..]Part l Architectural Assistant
Alison Brooks Architects are internationally recognised for producing high-quality architecture that inventively responds to the context and culture of each project. Our architects provide a bespoke service to each client, working collaboratively with world-class expert consultants to provide a fully integrated design service, and as such candidates must possess, at a minimum the below experience, skills and technical expertise:
Minimum requirements
- Bachelor’s degree from RIBA accredited school of architecture
- previous experience in an architectural studio an advantage
- proficient 2D, 3D design and visualisation skills
- excellent design skills
- Revit & Rhino skills are an advantage
- highly proficient in InDesign and Photoshop
- excellent verbal and written communication
- excellent coordination and organisational skills
The candidate will be based at our Highgate studio but may be required to travel and be based on site as and when necessary. Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK.
Please send a cover letter, CV and representative examples of your work as a PDF (7mb max) to careers@alisonbrooksarchitects.com.
Alison Brooks Architects is an equal opportunities employer and treats all job applicants equally, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, beliefs or religion.
Alison Brooks Architects are internationally recognised for producing high-quality architecture that inventively responds to the context and culture of each project. Our architects provide a bespoke service to each client, working collaboratively with world-class expert consultants to provide a fully integrated design service, and as such candidates must possess, at a minimum the below experience, skills and technical expertise:
Minimum requirements
- Bachelor’s degree from RIBA accredited school of architecture
- previous experience in an architectural studio an advantage
- proficient 2D, 3D design and visualisation skills
- excellent design skills
- Revit & Rhino skills are an advantage
- highly proficient in InDesign and Photoshop
- excellent verbal and written communication
- excellent coordination and organisational skills
The candidate will be based at our Highgate studio but may be required to travel and be based on site as and when necessary. Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK.
Please send a cover letter, CV and representative examples of your work as a PDF (7mb max) to careers@alisonbrooksarchitects.com.
Alison Brooks Architects is an equal opportunities employer and treats all job applicants equally, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, beliefs or religion.
[less..]Part ll Architectural Assistant
Alison Brooks Architects are recruiting for an architectural assistant with a minimum of two years post RIBA Part-II to join its London team. Successful candidates will join an experienced team to produce RIBA Stage 4 Construction Documentation and deliver a large and exciting, new-build residential scheme and at North West Cambridge. We’re searching for candidates with the ability to take on high levels of ownership and responsibility, to work as a team and be self-motivated.
Alison Brooks Architects are internationally recognised for producing high-quality architecture that inventively responds to the context and culture of each project. Our architects provide a bespoke service to each client, working collaboratively with world-class expert consultants to provide a fully integrated design service, and as such candidates must possess, at a minimum the below experience, skills and technical expertise:
Experience and knowledge
- a minimum of two years post RIBA Part-II experience in the UK
- experience working in teams using REVIT to produce Construction Documents
- experience in Technical Design, detailing and documentation
- experience on multi-residential/mixed-use projects desirable
- thorough knowledge of UK building regulations and planning procedures
Technical skills
- Competent Revit user
- highly proficient 3D design and visualisation skills: Rhino and Vray experience a plus
- excellent design skills
- highly proficient InDesign & Photoshop
- excellent coordination and organisational skills
- excellent verbal and written communication
The candidate will be based at our Highgate studio but may be required to travel and be based on site as and when necessary. Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK.
Please send a cover letter, CV and representative examples of your work as a PDF (7mb max) to careers@alisonbrooksarchitects.com.
Alison Brooks Architects is an equal opportunities employer and treats all job applicants equally, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, beliefs or religion.
Alison Brooks Architects are recruiting for an architectural assistant with a minimum of two years post RIBA Part-II to join its London team. Successful candidates will join an experienced team to produce RIBA Stage 4 Construction Documentation and deliver a large and exciting, new-build residential scheme and at North West Cambridge. We’re searching for candidates with the ability to take on high levels of ownership and responsibility, to work as a team and be self-motivated.
Alison Brooks Architects are internationally recognised for producing high-quality architecture that inventively responds to the context and culture of each project. Our architects provide a bespoke service to each client, working collaboratively with world-class expert consultants to provide a fully integrated design service, and as such candidates must possess, at a minimum the below experience, skills and technical expertise:
Experience and knowledge
- a minimum of two years post RIBA Part-II experience in the UK
- experience working in teams using REVIT to produce Construction Documents
- experience in Technical Design, detailing and documentation
- experience on multi-residential/mixed-use projects desirable
- thorough knowledge of UK building regulations and planning procedures
Technical skills
- Competent Revit user
- highly proficient 3D design and visualisation skills: Rhino and Vray experience a plus
- excellent design skills
- highly proficient InDesign & Photoshop
- excellent coordination and organisational skills
- excellent verbal and written communication
The candidate will be based at our Highgate studio but may be required to travel and be based on site as and when necessary. Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK.
Please send a cover letter, CV and representative examples of your work as a PDF (7mb max) to careers@alisonbrooksarchitects.com.
Alison Brooks Architects is an equal opportunities employer and treats all job applicants equally, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, beliefs or religion.
[less..]PR & Marketing Manager
We require an experienced and enthusiastic PR & Marketing Manager to manage all Public Relations activities for the Company. Reporting directly to Principal & Creative Director, the person should be outgoing, highly organised and passionate about architecture and the built environment. The position requires a high degree of responsibility, discretion and a proactive team focus. Duties include, but are not limited to the following:
Public Relations
- maintaining and creating relationships with representatives from the media and press including journalists
- identifying press opportunities and raising the profile of the practice
- creating and editing written materials including press releases, newsletters and biographies
New Business
- researching new business & collaboration opportunities
- monitoring online procurement portals
- preparing Expressions of Interest and presentations for prospective clients
- representation at networking & client events
Marketing
- developing the marketing strategy for the company in line with business development plan
- managing the website and liaising with the web developer
- organising talks, presentations and events, liaising with the PA to Alison Brooks
- managing content for the practice’s social media platforms; LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
- creating and managing of graphic material including lecture presentations, brochures and award submissions
- holding overall responsibility for brand management and corporate identity including template management
- commissioning professional photography and managing the practice image library
- managing and updating of the practice contacts database
- preparing industry awards submissions
Qualities & Skills
- a minimum three years’ experience in a similar role in and architectural /built environment practice
- excellent writing and graphic skills
- a team player with a pro-active approach to all tasks
- highly personable, with the ability to create and maintain creative relationships with colleagues and clients
- self-motivated and dedicated to delivering high-quality creative campaigns
- possess relevant industry contacts and the ability to network with journalists and industry professionals
- experience of event management and networking
- expertise in relevant software including Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite and WordPress
- eligible to work in the UK
In return Alison Brooks Architect offers a generous benefits package and a warm and welcoming team environment.
If you’re a confident and strategic PR & Marketing professional, who’s passionate about architecture please send your CV, stating your notice period and salary expectations to pamela.lawrie@alisonbrooksarchitects.com.
Alison Brooks Architects is an equal opportunities employer.
We require an experienced and enthusiastic PR & Marketing Manager to manage all Public Relations activities for the Company. Reporting directly to Principal & Creative Director, the person should be outgoing, highly organised and passionate about architecture and the built environment. The position requires a high degree of responsibility, discretion and a proactive team focus. Duties include, but are not limited to the following:
Public Relations
- maintaining and creating relationships with representatives from the media and press including journalists
- identifying press opportunities and raising the profile of the practice
- creating and editing written materials including press releases, newsletters and biographies
New Business
- researching new business & collaboration opportunities
- monitoring online procurement portals
- preparing Expressions of Interest and presentations for prospective clients
- representation at networking & client events
Marketing
- developing the marketing strategy for the company in line with business development plan
- managing the website and liaising with the web developer
- organising talks, presentations and events, liaising with the PA to Alison Brooks
- managing content for the practice’s social media platforms; LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
- creating and managing of graphic material including lecture presentations, brochures and award submissions
- holding overall responsibility for brand management and corporate identity including template management
- commissioning professional photography and managing the practice image library
- managing and updating of the practice contacts database
- preparing industry awards submissions
Qualities & Skills
- a minimum three years’ experience in a similar role in and architectural /built environment practice
- excellent writing and graphic skills
- a team player with a pro-active approach to all tasks
- highly personable, with the ability to create and maintain creative relationships with colleagues and clients
- self-motivated and dedicated to delivering high-quality creative campaigns
- possess relevant industry contacts and the ability to network with journalists and industry professionals
- experience of event management and networking
- expertise in relevant software including Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite and WordPress
- eligible to work in the UK
In return Alison Brooks Architect offers a generous benefits package and a warm and welcoming team environment.
If you’re a confident and strategic PR & Marketing professional, who’s passionate about architecture please send your CV, stating your notice period and salary expectations to pamela.lawrie@alisonbrooksarchitects.com.
Alison Brooks Architects is an equal opportunities employer.
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Building Design: Alison Brooks lands York Castle Museum redevelopment
Building Design has published the announcement of our appointment as Lead Architect & Masterplanner for the York Castle Museum redevelopment.
Building Design has published the announcement of our appointment as Lead Architect & Masterplanner for the York Castle Museum redevelopment.
“The practice will work with Richard Griffiths Architects, Purcell Architecture and Todd Longstaff-Gowan Landscape Design, Real Studios, BDP, Appleyard and Trew, and BuroHappold Engineering on the project, described by the museum as multimillion pound.
York Castle Museum had shortlisted five practices for interview to lead the project: Alison Brooks, Purcell Architecture, Simpson & Brown, Stanton Williams and Wilkinson Eyre.”
To read the full article, click here.
[less..]Studio Coordinator / Receptionist
Alison Brooks Architects is looking for a studio coordinator/receptionist to join its growing studio in Kentish Town, London.
The studio coordinator/receptionist will be the first point of contact for visitors, clients and staff so you will be committed to creating an excellent first impression for all visitors, have an eye for detail, can do attitude and excellent communication skills.
Duties will include, but not limited to:
- helping to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the office
- reception duties; including answering calls
- greeting clients, preparing meetings, managing office supplies, equipment and post
- liaising with external IT support, managing printers & printer supplies and maintenance contracts
- coordinating the office calendar and meeting room bookings
- ensuring company policies are maintained and updated accordingly including the practice handbook
- maintaining excellent office standards, ensuring a tidy environment at all times
- managing premises e.g. office renovations, desk moves
- maintaining company supplier contracts
- arranging CPDs
- managing or assisting with practice events, staff and client hospitality
- supporting the design team with diary management, including travel arrangements
- maintaining office supplies, stationery, kitchen, etc.
- managing the samples library
- collating/recording expenses and petty cash
- answering the telephone and directing calls as required
- supporting all employees with administrative tasks where required E.G printing, filing, archiving and other ad hoc duties
- maintaining and updating the office contacts database
Skills & experience
- prior studio coordinator/reception experience, ideally within a creative or design environment
- proficiency in Microsoft Office
- proficiency with Adobe Suite desirable
- excellent verbal and written communication with a strong attention to detail
- able to take initiative and work in a dynamic studio environment
- highly organised, proactive & professional
In return we offer a generous benefits package and a warm and welcoming team environment.
Alison Brooks Architects is an equal opportunities employer.
Alison Brooks Architects is looking for a studio coordinator/receptionist to join its growing studio in Kentish Town, London.
The studio coordinator/receptionist will be the first point of contact for visitors, clients and staff so you will be committed to creating an excellent first impression for all visitors, have an eye for detail, can do attitude and excellent communication skills.
Duties will include, but not limited to:
- helping to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the office
- reception duties; including answering calls
- greeting clients, preparing meetings, managing office supplies, equipment and post
- liaising with external IT support, managing printers & printer supplies and maintenance contracts
- coordinating the office calendar and meeting room bookings
- ensuring company policies are maintained and updated accordingly including the practice handbook
- maintaining excellent office standards, ensuring a tidy environment at all times
- managing premises e.g. office renovations, desk moves
- maintaining company supplier contracts
- arranging CPDs
- managing or assisting with practice events, staff and client hospitality
- supporting the design team with diary management, including travel arrangements
- maintaining office supplies, stationery, kitchen, etc.
- managing the samples library
- collating/recording expenses and petty cash
- answering the telephone and directing calls as required
- supporting all employees with administrative tasks where required E.G printing, filing, archiving and other ad hoc duties
- maintaining and updating the office contacts database
Skills & experience
- prior studio coordinator/reception experience, ideally within a creative or design environment
- proficiency in Microsoft Office
- proficiency with Adobe Suite desirable
- excellent verbal and written communication with a strong attention to detail
- able to take initiative and work in a dynamic studio environment
- highly organised, proactive & professional
In return we offer a generous benefits package and a warm and welcoming team environment.
Alison Brooks Architects is an equal opportunities employer.
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Surface Design Show: PechaKucha Evening
6.02.2019 18:30–20:30, Business Design Centre
Alison Brooks will be presenting at the Surface Design Show’s PechaKucha evening on the subject ‘Identitites and Boundaries – Site Specific Responses to Modern Architecture’.
Alison Brooks will be presenting at the Surface Design Show’s PechaKucha evening on the subject ‘Identitites and Boundaries – Site Specific Responses to Modern Architecture’.
The evening hosted by Chris Dyson will include: Lucia Berasaluce, Hantic Architects; Ben Cousins, Cousins & Cousins Architects; Simon Fraser, Hopkins Architects; Soraya Khan, Theis and Khan Architects; Nigel Ostime, Hawkins Brown; Stuart Piercy, Piercy and Co and Alex Scott-Whitby, ScottWhitbySTUDIO.
[less..]Privacy Policy
Who we are
Alison Brooks Architects (‘we’ or ‘us’ or ‘our’) gather and process your personal information in accordance with this privacy notice and in compliance with the relevant data protection Regulation and laws. This notice provides you with the necessary information regarding your rights and our obligations, and explains how, why and when we process your personal data.
Alison Brooks Architects registered office is at Unit 610 Highgate Studios, 53-79 Highgate Road, NW5 1TL London and we are a company registered in England and Wales under company number 4810339. We are registered on the Information Commissioner’s Office Register; registration number A8365277, and act as the data controller when processing your data.
Information That We Collect
Alison Brooks Architects processes your personal information to meet our legal, statutory and contractual obligations and to provide you with our products and services. We will never collect any unnecessary personal data from you and do not process your information in any way, other than as specified in this notice. Personal data we collect can include: name, date of birth, contact details, education and employment information and passport details.
How We Use Your Personal Data
Alison Brooks Architects takes your privacy very seriously and will never disclose, share or sell your data without your consent; unless required to do so by law. We only retain your data for as long as is necessary and for the purpose(s) specified in this notice. Where you have consented to us providing you with promotional offers and marketing, you are free to withdraw this consent at any time. The purposes and reasons for processing your personal data are detailed below:
- We collect your personal data in the performance of a contract or to provide a service and to ensure that orders are completed and can be sent out to your preferred address
- We collect and store your personal data as part of our legal obligation for business accounting and tax purposes
- We will occasionally send you marketing information where we have assessed that it is beneficial to you as a customer and in our interests. Such information will be non-intrusive and is processed on the grounds of legitimate interests
Your Rights
You have the right to access any personal information that Alison Brooks Architects processes about you and to request information about:
- What personal data we hold about you
- The purposes of the processing
- The categories of personal data concerned
- The recipients to whom the personal data has/will be disclosed
- How long we intend to store your personal data for
- If we did not collect the data directly from you, information about the source
If you believe that we hold any incomplete or inaccurate data about you, you have the right to ask us to correct and/or complete the information and we will strive to do so as quickly as possible; unless there is a valid reason for not doing so, at which point you will be notified.
You also have the right to request erasure of your personal data or to restrict processing (where applicable) in accordance with the data protection laws; as well as to object to any direct marketing from us. Where applicable, you have the right to data portability of your information and the right to be informed about any automated decision-making we may use.
If we receive a request from you to exercise any of the above rights, we may ask you to verify your identity before acting on the request; this is to ensure that your data is protected and kept secure.
Sharing and Disclosing Your Personal Information
We do not share or disclose any of your personal information without your consent, other than for the purposes specified in this notice or where there is a legal requirement. Alison Brooks Architects uses third-parties to provide the below services and business functions; however, all processors acting on our behalf only process your data in accordance with instructions from us and comply fully with this privacy notice, the data protection laws and any other appropriate confidentiality and security measures.
Marketing
Occasionally, Alison Brooks Architects would like to contact you with details on the services that we provide as well as news updates. If you consent to us using your contact details for this purpose, you have the right to modify or withdraw your consent at any time by using the opt-out/unsubscribe options or by contacting Alison Brooks Architects directly, here.
Cookies
We use cookies to provide statistical information regarding the use of our website. Such information will not identify you personally – it is statistical data about our visitors and their use of our website. This data does not identify any personal details. All computers can decline cookies, which can be done by activating the setting on your browser. Please note that should you choose to decline cookies, you may be unable to access some areas of our website.
Who we are
Alison Brooks Architects (‘we’ or ‘us’ or ‘our’) gather and process your personal information in accordance with this privacy notice and in compliance with the relevant data protection Regulation and laws. This notice provides you with the necessary information regarding your rights and our obligations, and explains how, why and when we process your personal data.
Alison Brooks Architects registered office is at Unit 610 Highgate Studios, 53-79 Highgate Road, NW5 1TL London and we are a company registered in England and Wales under company number 4810339. We are registered on the Information Commissioner’s Office Register; registration number A8365277, and act as the data controller when processing your data.
Information That We Collect
Alison Brooks Architects processes your personal information to meet our legal, statutory and contractual obligations and to provide you with our products and services. We will never collect any unnecessary personal data from you and do not process your information in any way, other than as specified in this notice. Personal data we collect can include: name, date of birth, contact details, education and employment information and passport details.
How We Use Your Personal Data
Alison Brooks Architects takes your privacy very seriously and will never disclose, share or sell your data without your consent; unless required to do so by law. We only retain your data for as long as is necessary and for the purpose(s) specified in this notice. Where you have consented to us providing you with promotional offers and marketing, you are free to withdraw this consent at any time. The purposes and reasons for processing your personal data are detailed below:
- We collect your personal data in the performance of a contract or to provide a service and to ensure that orders are completed and can be sent out to your preferred address
- We collect and store your personal data as part of our legal obligation for business accounting and tax purposes
- We will occasionally send you marketing information where we have assessed that it is beneficial to you as a customer and in our interests. Such information will be non-intrusive and is processed on the grounds of legitimate interests
Your Rights
You have the right to access any personal information that Alison Brooks Architects processes about you and to request information about:
- What personal data we hold about you
- The purposes of the processing
- The categories of personal data concerned
- The recipients to whom the personal data has/will be disclosed
- How long we intend to store your personal data for
- If we did not collect the data directly from you, information about the source
If you believe that we hold any incomplete or inaccurate data about you, you have the right to ask us to correct and/or complete the information and we will strive to do so as quickly as possible; unless there is a valid reason for not doing so, at which point you will be notified.
You also have the right to request erasure of your personal data or to restrict processing (where applicable) in accordance with the data protection laws; as well as to object to any direct marketing from us. Where applicable, you have the right to data portability of your information and the right to be informed about any automated decision-making we may use.
If we receive a request from you to exercise any of the above rights, we may ask you to verify your identity before acting on the request; this is to ensure that your data is protected and kept secure.
Sharing and Disclosing Your Personal Information
We do not share or disclose any of your personal information without your consent, other than for the purposes specified in this notice or where there is a legal requirement. Alison Brooks Architects uses third-parties to provide the below services and business functions; however, all processors acting on our behalf only process your data in accordance with instructions from us and comply fully with this privacy notice, the data protection laws and any other appropriate confidentiality and security measures.
Marketing
Occasionally, Alison Brooks Architects would like to contact you with details on the services that we provide as well as news updates. If you consent to us using your contact details for this purpose, you have the right to modify or withdraw your consent at any time by using the opt-out/unsubscribe options or by contacting Alison Brooks Architects directly, here.
Cookies
We use cookies to provide statistical information regarding the use of our website. Such information will not identify you personally – it is statistical data about our visitors and their use of our website. This data does not identify any personal details. All computers can decline cookies, which can be done by activating the setting on your browser. Please note that should you choose to decline cookies, you may be unable to access some areas of our website.
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Quality Assurance Statement
Alison Brooks Architects is a multidisciplinary firm specialising in urban planning, architecture, and design.
Our key objective is to seek excellence in every aspect of our work and practice. We aim to maintain honour and mutual respect with a professional approach in relations between clients, members of our company and collaborators. By so doing we seek to achieve a service appropriate to the needs of our client and to society at large.
We seek to create conditions where people of high ability and high ideals, who share in our aims and objectives, are attracted to work with us. We encourage creativity, skill sharing, team work, professional and personal development. We operate in a manner that allows people freedom and flexibility to use their skills to the full.
We continually seek to improve our performance and therefore the service given to our clients. It is our policy to give clear instructions, which are necessary to facilitate the planning, and execution of projects to the required quality and to meet the requirements of BS EN ISO 9001.
Project Quality Plan
QA arrangements for this project would involve a Project Quality Plan (PQP) established at the beginning of the project. The PQP includes detailed project information outlining the requirements of the brief, set project objectives, budget, preliminary project programmes and schedules and the organization of resources. The PQP records any client changes with respect to this information. The PQP identifies information, as it is to be prepared at specific design stages and records relevant internal checking and approval procedures. The PQP records the structure of the project filing system of paper hard copies, digital computer files, file archiving and back-up procedures. The PQP is regularly reviewed and revised as necessary to suit the changing demands of the project.
In addition to the PQP file ABA regularly reviews the procedures for setting out the processes of project work, the responsibilities for them and the type and methods in which records are kept.
Approach
In order to maintain this approach to produce innovative, high quality work, it is necessary to ensure that ABA protocols are followed to make the most efficient use of time to maximise time for design and delivery. The following quality control and management procedures are implemented through from concept to post completion of each project to ensure that quality is maintained and the delivery of each project is assessed after completion in order to improve services in the future.
ABA’s design approach is intensely site and client specific, drawing from the broader cultural context of each project to produce highly inventive work that seeks to communicate with a wide audience. The team defines this as ‘cross-fertilisation’, integrating urban design, landscape, and interiors with disciplines outside conventional realms of architecture. This approach has generated an award-winning body of work noted for its inspired manipulation of space, inventive use of materials, clear structural expression and the ability to create profound emotional and sensory experiences for its users.
Our client base is not unanimously in favour of formal Quality Assurance (QA) arrangements which has to date not encouraged us to seek accreditation. ABA does however have several systems in place to monitor project quality.
Resourcing
Alison Brooks Architects are a medium sized practice of 17 architectural staff and one office administrator, dedicated to excellence in all aspects of the practice’s work. For this project Alison Brooks as project design leader will be supported by technical and administrative services of a dedicated project architect who will provide a single point client contact. Other support will be added to the team as and when necessary.
Project Method Statement
Alison Brooks Architect’s work is conducted according to the terms and conditions of RIBA Standard Forms of Appointment and in alignment with the RIBA Plan of Work modified to meet the specific requirements of a given client’s brief. At completion of each Work Stage a client presentation will be prepared which may be accompanied by a cost study (by others) appropriate to the stage. Client approval will be sought prior to proceeding to any subsequent stage. ABA encourages a team approach from the initial stages of any project including public consultation, as well as requests for environmentally sustainable design solutions.
Programme Control
Realistic planning of design stages, allowing adequate periods for cost analysis, consultant input and client approval is essential to achieving project program targets. All potential obstacles to project progress must be identified at the earliest stages, such statutory consents or in the case of existing buildings, special consideration to be made for building structure, mechanical services and accessibility. This, combined with a clear team commitment to communication and adherence to deadlines, will minimise programme slippage. In previous projects ABA has consistently produced design and production information within extremely tight time frames and well within client needs.
Communication
Excellent design and project execution results from an excellent client-architect relationship and consistent, thorough and open communication amongst the project team for the duration of a project. Clear lines of communication are established at the outset of the project as well as an overall project programme and project team meeting schedule. Meeting are generally minuted by ABA unless other parties are assuming this role and distributed to the client and relevant parties. All ABA telephone conversations are noted and when necessary, distributed. All correspondence with consultants and statutory and other bodies are copied to the client. ABA maintains open communication within the project team, briefing individuals for tasks and clarifying the methods to be used as appropriate to the work at hand.
Project Filing
As outlined in the PQP a full paper filing system is maintained throughout the project in addition to all digitally saved files to ensure a clear audit trail relating to all decisions and correspondence. All digitally saved files and project work are regularly backed up and where necessary off-site storage arrangements are made. Standard systems of drawing revisions and drawing issue records are also maintained in full.
Project Reviews
ABA regularly conducts formal internal reviews of project work carried out by members of staff. These reviews are used to monitor project performance against the requirements of the PQP, and that overall ABA project standards are maintained. It is at this time that technical aspects of the design including health and safety are checked and verified. ABA internal reviews are minuted and filed with project data to ensure continuity.
Alison Brooks Architects is a multidisciplinary firm specialising in urban planning, architecture, and design.
Our key objective is to seek excellence in every aspect of our work and practice. We aim to maintain honour and mutual respect with a professional approach in relations between clients, members of our company and collaborators. By so doing we seek to achieve a service appropriate to the needs of our client and to society at large.
We seek to create conditions where people of high ability and high ideals, who share in our aims and objectives, are attracted to work with us. We encourage creativity, skill sharing, team work, professional and personal development. We operate in a manner that allows people freedom and flexibility to use their skills to the full.
We continually seek to improve our performance and therefore the service given to our clients. It is our policy to give clear instructions, which are necessary to facilitate the planning, and execution of projects to the required quality and to meet the requirements of BS EN ISO 9001.
Project Quality Plan
QA arrangements for this project would involve a Project Quality Plan (PQP) established at the beginning of the project. The PQP includes detailed project information outlining the requirements of the brief, set project objectives, budget, preliminary project programmes and schedules and the organization of resources. The PQP records any client changes with respect to this information. The PQP identifies information, as it is to be prepared at specific design stages and records relevant internal checking and approval procedures. The PQP records the structure of the project filing system of paper hard copies, digital computer files, file archiving and back-up procedures. The PQP is regularly reviewed and revised as necessary to suit the changing demands of the project.
In addition to the PQP file ABA regularly reviews the procedures for setting out the processes of project work, the responsibilities for them and the type and methods in which records are kept.
Approach
In order to maintain this approach to produce innovative, high quality work, it is necessary to ensure that ABA protocols are followed to make the most efficient use of time to maximise time for design and delivery. The following quality control and management procedures are implemented through from concept to post completion of each project to ensure that quality is maintained and the delivery of each project is assessed after completion in order to improve services in the future.
ABA’s design approach is intensely site and client specific, drawing from the broader cultural context of each project to produce highly inventive work that seeks to communicate with a wide audience. The team defines this as ‘cross-fertilisation’, integrating urban design, landscape, and interiors with disciplines outside conventional realms of architecture. This approach has generated an award-winning body of work noted for its inspired manipulation of space, inventive use of materials, clear structural expression and the ability to create profound emotional and sensory experiences for its users.
Our client base is not unanimously in favour of formal Quality Assurance (QA) arrangements which has to date not encouraged us to seek accreditation. ABA does however have several systems in place to monitor project quality.
Resourcing
Alison Brooks Architects are a medium sized practice of 17 architectural staff and one office administrator, dedicated to excellence in all aspects of the practice’s work. For this project Alison Brooks as project design leader will be supported by technical and administrative services of a dedicated project architect who will provide a single point client contact. Other support will be added to the team as and when necessary.
Project Method Statement
Alison Brooks Architect’s work is conducted according to the terms and conditions of RIBA Standard Forms of Appointment and in alignment with the RIBA Plan of Work modified to meet the specific requirements of a given client’s brief. At completion of each Work Stage a client presentation will be prepared which may be accompanied by a cost study (by others) appropriate to the stage. Client approval will be sought prior to proceeding to any subsequent stage. ABA encourages a team approach from the initial stages of any project including public consultation, as well as requests for environmentally sustainable design solutions.
Programme Control
Realistic planning of design stages, allowing adequate periods for cost analysis, consultant input and client approval is essential to achieving project program targets. All potential obstacles to project progress must be identified at the earliest stages, such statutory consents or in the case of existing buildings, special consideration to be made for building structure, mechanical services and accessibility. This, combined with a clear team commitment to communication and adherence to deadlines, will minimise programme slippage. In previous projects ABA has consistently produced design and production information within extremely tight time frames and well within client needs.
Communication
Excellent design and project execution results from an excellent client-architect relationship and consistent, thorough and open communication amongst the project team for the duration of a project. Clear lines of communication are established at the outset of the project as well as an overall project programme and project team meeting schedule. Meeting are generally minuted by ABA unless other parties are assuming this role and distributed to the client and relevant parties. All ABA telephone conversations are noted and when necessary, distributed. All correspondence with consultants and statutory and other bodies are copied to the client. ABA maintains open communication within the project team, briefing individuals for tasks and clarifying the methods to be used as appropriate to the work at hand.
Project Filing
As outlined in the PQP a full paper filing system is maintained throughout the project in addition to all digitally saved files to ensure a clear audit trail relating to all decisions and correspondence. All digitally saved files and project work are regularly backed up and where necessary off-site storage arrangements are made. Standard systems of drawing revisions and drawing issue records are also maintained in full.
Project Reviews
ABA regularly conducts formal internal reviews of project work carried out by members of staff. These reviews are used to monitor project performance against the requirements of the PQP, and that overall ABA project standards are maintained. It is at this time that technical aspects of the design including health and safety are checked and verified. ABA internal reviews are minuted and filed with project data to ensure continuity.
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Evening Standard: Homes & Property
Alison Brooks was interviewed by the Evening Standard on her life in Queens Park, her Victorian semi-detached house, her decor and her favourite furniture.
Arch Daily: 30 Most Influential Architects in London ReCasting The Smile East Parkside
Alison Brooks has been named by Arch Daily’s as one of the 30 most influential architects in London.
Alison Brooks has been named by Arch Daily’s as one of the 30 most influential architects in London.
“The founder of Alison Brooks Architects has been praised for her installation at the Venice Architecture Biennale, while also overseeing major works such as The Smile, and the first high-rise for the Greenwich Peninsula in London.”
To read the full article, click here.
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University of Toronto: Home and Away Lecture Series
21.11.2018 18:30–20:00, John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design
Alison Brooks has been invited by the University of Toronto to provide a public lecture as part of the Daniels’ Home and Away lecture series.
Alison Brooks has been invited by the University of Toronto to provide a public lecture as part of the Daniels’ Home and Away lecture series.
Engaging broad, timely topics the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design’s Home and Away lecture series connects the wealth of expertise within the Daniels Faculty community with an international, multidisciplinary network of designers, scholars, artists, and curators.
In Alison’s guest lecture she will be joined by Brigitte Shim, Professor at John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture and Principal of Shim-Sutcliffe Architects, widely regarded as one of the most innovative and successful architectural practices in Canada.
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FT Series: Venice Biennale 2018 ReCasting
Alison Brooks was interviewed by the Financial Times, ahead of the unveiling of the 16th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia on 23 May.
Alison Brooks was interviewed by the Financial Times, ahead of the unveiling of the 16th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia on 23 May.
Alison Brooks Architects have been invited by Curators Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara to participate at the 16th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia, running from 26 May to 25 November 2018. The theme for Biennale Architettura 2018 is FREESPACE, a word which describes a generosity of spirit and a sense of humanity at the core of architecture’s agenda.
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16th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia
26.05.2018—25.11.2018
Alison Brooks Architects have been invited to participate at the 16th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia curated by Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara. The 16th Exhibition runs from 26 May to 25 November 2018. Details of our involvement will be unveiled on the 23rd May.
Alison Brooks Architects have been invited to participate at the 16th International Architecture Exhibition – La Biennale di Venezia curated by Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara. The 16th Exhibition runs from 26 May to 25 November 2018. Details of our involvement will be unveiled on the 23rd May.
[less..]Part I Architectural Assistant
Alison Brooks Architects is recruiting a Part-I architectural assistant to join its London team.
Alison Brooks Architects are internationally recognised for producing high-quality architecture that inventively responds to the context and culture of each project. Our architects provide a bespoke service to each client, working collaboratively with world-class expert consultants to provide a fully integrated design service, and as such candidates must possess, at a minimum the below experience, skills and technical expertise:
Minimum requirements
- bachelors degree from RIBA accredited school of architecture
- previous experience in an architectural studio an advantage
- proficient 2D, 3D design and visualisation skills
- excellent design skills
- Revit skills are an advantage
- highly proficient in InDesign and Photoshop
- excellent verbal and written communication
- excellent coordination and organisational skills
The candidate will be based at our Highgate studio but may be required to travel and be based on site as and when necessary. Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK.
Please submit a CV and concise portfolio in a PDF format not to exceed 5MB to careers@alisonbrooksarchitects.com. We will not accept hard copies.
Alison Brooks Architects is an equal opportunities employer and treats all job applicants equally, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, beliefs or religion.
Alison Brooks Architects is recruiting a Part-I architectural assistant to join its London team.
Alison Brooks Architects are internationally recognised for producing high-quality architecture that inventively responds to the context and culture of each project. Our architects provide a bespoke service to each client, working collaboratively with world-class expert consultants to provide a fully integrated design service, and as such candidates must possess, at a minimum the below experience, skills and technical expertise:
Minimum requirements
- bachelors degree from RIBA accredited school of architecture
- previous experience in an architectural studio an advantage
- proficient 2D, 3D design and visualisation skills
- excellent design skills
- Revit skills are an advantage
- highly proficient in InDesign and Photoshop
- excellent verbal and written communication
- excellent coordination and organisational skills
The candidate will be based at our Highgate studio but may be required to travel and be based on site as and when necessary. Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK.
Please submit a CV and concise portfolio in a PDF format not to exceed 5MB to careers@alisonbrooksarchitects.com. We will not accept hard copies.
Alison Brooks Architects is an equal opportunities employer and treats all job applicants equally, irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, age, disability, beliefs or religion.
[less..]Studio Coordinator / Receptionist
Alison Brooks Architects is looking for a studio coordinator/receptionist to join its team in Kentish Town, London.
The studio coordinator/receptionist will be the first point of contact for visitors, clients and staff so you will need to ensure the smooth running of the space and be committed to maintaining an excellent first impression for all visitors to the practice.
The successful candidate must have an excellent eye for detail, can do attitude and show a high level of initiative as well as being confident with excellent communication skills.
Duties will include, but not limited to:
- helping to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the office
- reception duties; including answering calls, greeting clients, preparing meetings, managing office supplies, equipment and post
- liaison with external IT support, managing printers & printer supplies and maintenance contracts
- coordinating the office calendar and meeting room bookings
- ensure company policies are maintained and updated accordingly including the practice handbook
- maintain excellent office standards, ensuring a tidy environment at all times
- oversee ad-hoc projects e.g. office renovations, desk moves
- maintaining company supplier contracts
- arranging CPDs
- coordinating maintenance/repair work for the studio space
- supporting the design team with diary management, including travel arrangements
- maintain office stock, stationary, kitchen cupboards etc.
- managing the samples library
- collating/recording expenses and petty cash
- answering the telephone and directing calls as required
- support all employees with administrative tasks where required e.g. printing, filing, archiving and other ad-hoc duties
- maintaining and updating the office contacts database
Skills & experience
- prior studio coordinator/reception experience, ideally within a creative or design environment
- proficiency in Microsoft Office
- proficiency with Adobe Suite
- excellent verbal and written communication with a strong attention to detail
- able to take initiative and work in a dynamic studio environment
- highly organised, proactive & professional
To apply please email a CV to careers@alisonbrooksarchitects.com.
Alison Brooks Architects is looking for a studio coordinator/receptionist to join its team in Kentish Town, London.
The studio coordinator/receptionist will be the first point of contact for visitors, clients and staff so you will need to ensure the smooth running of the space and be committed to maintaining an excellent first impression for all visitors to the practice.
The successful candidate must have an excellent eye for detail, can do attitude and show a high level of initiative as well as being confident with excellent communication skills.
Duties will include, but not limited to:
- helping to ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the office
- reception duties; including answering calls, greeting clients, preparing meetings, managing office supplies, equipment and post
- liaison with external IT support, managing printers & printer supplies and maintenance contracts
- coordinating the office calendar and meeting room bookings
- ensure company policies are maintained and updated accordingly including the practice handbook
- maintain excellent office standards, ensuring a tidy environment at all times
- oversee ad-hoc projects e.g. office renovations, desk moves
- maintaining company supplier contracts
- arranging CPDs
- coordinating maintenance/repair work for the studio space
- supporting the design team with diary management, including travel arrangements
- maintain office stock, stationary, kitchen cupboards etc.
- managing the samples library
- collating/recording expenses and petty cash
- answering the telephone and directing calls as required
- support all employees with administrative tasks where required e.g. printing, filing, archiving and other ad-hoc duties
- maintaining and updating the office contacts database
Skills & experience
- prior studio coordinator/reception experience, ideally within a creative or design environment
- proficiency in Microsoft Office
- proficiency with Adobe Suite
- excellent verbal and written communication with a strong attention to detail
- able to take initiative and work in a dynamic studio environment
- highly organised, proactive & professional
To apply please email a CV to careers@alisonbrooksarchitects.com.
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Architecture Masters
Alison Brooks was interviewed by Owen Wainhouse for episode 11 of Architecture Masters, the new podcast from the London Festival of Architecture.[more..]
Alison Brooks was interviewed by Owen Wainhouse for episode 11 of Architecture Masters, the new podcast from the London Festival of Architecture.
In this episode Alison talks about her early experience, her career, current projects and housing in Britain.
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The Smile wins the World Architecture Festival 2017 ‘Display’ award The Smile
The Smile has been awarded the World Architecture Festival’s 2017 Display Award after a vigorous judging process in Berlin on 15 November.
The Smile has been awarded the World Architecture Festival’s 2017 Display Award after a vigorous judging process in Berlin on 15 November.
Alison Brooks Architects collaborated with The American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC), Arup and the London Design Festival to present this cross-laminated tulipwood structure.
The Smile is one of the Festival’s Landmark Projects in 2016, and was inhabited and explored by the public. The spectacular, curved, tubular timber structure measured 3.5m high, 4.5m wide and 34m long and was effectively a beam curving up at both ends. Showcasing the structural and spatial potential of cross-laminated American tulipwood, The Smile was the first ever ‘mega-tube’ made with construction-sized panels of hardwood CLT.
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