Planning permission was granted on  13 March 2018 for a major redevelopment at St Hilda’s College, Oxford, including a new tower. MBA are conservation architects for the scheme, working with Gort Scott Architects as lead designers. Our role was to research and analyse the heritage significance of the college, to advise Gort Scott during the design development, and to assess the heritage impact of the scheme. This is one of a number of projects where MBA support leading design practices in major conservation projects, using our experience in high value heritage assets and our design skills to offer conservation expertise to the design team.

A public consultation was held on 19 December 2017. Over 100 people attended the exhibition, and we have received so far 68 written responses. The feedback has been extremely useful and is being  analysed and collated.  The design will be reviewed in the light of the consultation and adjusted to reflect the information we have learned. Many thanks to all who have contributed so far. The deadline for responses is 20 January 2018.  To view the project page and download the consultation boards click here.

Contractor Indigo Projects has completed the groundworks and the superstructure at this location. Courtyard landscaping and green roof are progressing as scheduled. The courtyard is designed as a stepped landscape with a series of retaining walls, seating areas and planting beds. Every room of the house has a strong visual relationship with the courtyard which is an intimate space designed to ensure privacy.
(more…)

MBA continue to support Wimbledon BookFest, now in its 11th year. It runs from 5-15th October this year, with a marquee on Wimbledon Common. This year the Robert Graves Poetry prize is launched, sponsored by MBA and Roehampton University. As well as author talks, the festival includes comedy, music, and a large programme of education and outreach into Merton’s schools.  Further information here.

Shanice Michaels and Jemma Kightley joined Marcus Beale Architects on a two week work experience programme. The students are currently working on physical models for a residential project in Croydon. They have engaged in internal design meetings and will be attending site visits of current projects.

MBA is proud to support the local community by offering students an insight into architectural practice.

(more…)