OUR APPROACH

 

The elements of our approach

• Examining the cultural significance of the landscape
• Understanding the sense of a place through analysis and contextualisation
• Creating a landscape narrative
• An enlightened interpretation of the client brief
• Ecological assessment and environmental design
• The significance of designing in detail to create memorable and durable places
• Listening to and working with stakeholders and communities
• Forming connections with the place and people

 

Environment
In an age where issues related to environmental change and the forces of nature are of global concern we are constantly evaluating and responding to each project with a set of criteria for addressing environmental issues, sustainability, asset management and resources. These criteria have to be weighed and balanced in relation to the client brief and environmental benefits agreed.

 

It is part of our responsibility to achieve a balance between the projects requirements’ and the demands of the site. This requires us to undertake exhaustive research into technologies that reduce environmental impact, harness passive energy sources and reduce energy consumption.

 

Ecological expertise
Our expertise has a broad environmental base, from sustainability issues, habitat creation, ecology, to micro-climate design. Our extensive knowledge of the environment and of ecology, underscores our approach to schemes from the earliest stage. Evaluating resource efficiency, water collection, recycling and, wherever appropriate, the use of materials with low embodied energy and Co2 inputs, sourcing materials locally, selection of materials, sourcing and using recycled materials.

 

We have been part of multi-disciplinary teams working on green and sustainable projects in the UK and internationally, making a significant contribution to the environment. Many of our schemes are assessed using BREAM principles (the Coopers Road housing scheme received a WWF ecoHomes Award).

 

Project partnering and community design

We have considerable experience forming partnerships with clients and users, both formally & informally arranged. In our work with local authorities and development agencies, we present ideas which resolve potential conflicts between the development and habitat.

 

In all our community-led schemes the consultation process is central and the feedback has informed and guided the design. This work is applicable to education, housing, parks, gardens, urban squares for masterplans, design and management plans.

 

Project pacts

On a current public housing scheme, as part of the  design team, we entered into a formal “project pact” between  the clients, contractors and the design team to ensure high standards of accountability and of the reporting and production of information.