Albion Street Social Housing

Transforming two derelict houses into six energy efficient, future proofed flats for use as emergency accommodation On 24th January 2025 7-9 Albion Street was awarded the LABC Best Small Social Housing Development at the Grand Finals in London.  We thought it made a good opportunity to revisit the scheme.  The Cityzen team was appointed post planning for technical design through to tender and overseeing the works through the construction stage. There were several challenges presented by this project, not least an existing building being held to new build planning conditions.  Existing Building Challenges One of the first challenges with this project was that due to the presence of asbestos no measured survey had been undertaken prior to the planning permission being obtained.  As soon as COVID-19 restrictions allowed, asbestos was removed and a 3D survey was obtained.  The survey established that achieving the council goals for occupancy was not possible within the existing planning approval. It established that the footprint of the planning approval was sufficiently different to create some spatial challenges and at the same time, it was noted that the planning design showed most of the internal structure being removed in order to best make use of the footprint. The Council communicated they had a commitment to reusing as much original structure as possible, while also needing to meet National Housing Standards for funding requirements. Thus, a redesign was undertaken to achieve the council goals. The original scheme had included 2 loft dormers to the sides. However, these had been negotiated out before the planning was determined. With the updated survey we discovered the council could not achieve the 6 flats intended without additions at the roof level. Knowing that the planners had objected to the dormers in the original planning we instead extended the existing rear building line to 2nd floor creating a full infill, while to the front, in between the 2 valley roofs, we added a small infill dormer. This was sufficient to meet the m2 required to enable the council to achieve their targets.  Adur and Worthing planning were pragmatic, understood the challenges and approved the revised scheme as an amendment to the existing planning permission. This however meant, as the existing planning approval was also for the block of new build flats, that the refurbishment was subject to the same planning conditions as the new build. This was a stretching requirement in terms of performance (acoustic and overheating) but one the council did not wish to shy away from. Due to pressing project timescales, while the amendment was under consideration, we continued the technical design of the revised scheme at risk.  We were able to issue the architectural construction package for tender just 12 weeks after the survey was received.  Achieving Design Goals Due to the site being on a busy coast road with the railway line behind it, the acoustic specifications that were part of the approved planning conditions, were not able to be easily met within a social housing refurbishment budget, or through the use of refurbishment products on the market.  To satisfy the Environmental Health planning conditions the project had to therefore show that all practicable mitigations had been undertaken and demonstrate the improvements. Cityzen worked with specialist consultants across the project to provide additional expertise in order to achieve the best possible thermal and acoustic results. The existing overheating risk arising from existing south-facing large format bay windows was increased by the acoustic planning condition. Environmental nighttime noise required windows to remain closed. The structure of the buildings and the budget did not allow for the favourable solution of a ducted ventilation system.  To ensure the specification was optimised, the design was interrogated as it was developed by iterative SAP energy assessments by SEA Compliance, and iterative overheating TM59 assessments by XDA Consulting. This enabled the design team to develop a suitable way forward that addressed the need for high thermal performance and reduction of overheating risk.  Anderson Acoustics then interrogated the preferred design specification and were able to confirm that it should address the acoustic needs they had identified, subject to on-construction re-assessment. The council policy goal of no gas, the budget, and ongoing maintenance requirements, led to an employer’s requirement for electric storage heating. As this was to be temporary accommodation a key design team goal was therefore to ensure the future occupants of the properties had relatively low running costs. This was achieved through developing a design specification with low heating demand, again going beyond the performance required for a refurbishment, this had to be balanced with the overheating risk. The final specification of solar control glazing, blinds, system 3 ventilation and purge fans in heat sensitive rooms removed the overheating risk in 25% of the bedrooms and, in the most-at-risk bedrooms, the total overheating hours were reduced by 74%.  Throughout the project, the design and constructive teams worked closely together to ensure the project was delivered in the most cost-effective way possible. With the main contractor, Cheesmur, being proactive in not only addressing problems on site, but also drawing on their learnings from experience on previous council projects in terms of products and subcontractors. When there was a change to the council fire strategy post tender, Cityzen liaised with the council fire team, understanding their requirements and liaising with fire door manufacturers, door latch manufacturers, and testing organisations to ensure the fire team were supplied with sufficient information to enable them to agree a way forward. The cost plan by MGAC (RLF at the time) was firmed up prior to tender thanks to a period of strip out, and further existing condition investigation by ourselves and QED Structures which helped firm up the amount of timber remediation and structural repair required. Above and Beyond Results The acoustic assessment demonstrated that the nighttime noise risk had been completely removed due to the detailing and specification. A fantastic result given the planning assessment indicated high-risk of noise nuisance due to both the main coast road to the front and the railway to the rear. 

Agricultural Barn

Cityzen was commissioned by Cheesmur Construction to create a new multi functional agricultural storage facility for a rural client. Cityzen’s role involved developing the building post planning and working with Savills who undertook the planning to update the design. We were tasked with ensuring that the Building Regulations and safety standards were exceeded to ensure a safe working and storage environment for the client.

Debenhams – Worthing

Reusing Buildings: A Sustainable Approach to Heritage and Design The reuse of existing buildings is paramount in today’s architectural practice. Demolishing structures to make way for new ones is not an effective use of heritage, embodied energy, or time. This project exemplifies our commitment to revitalising the existing structure, and adapting it for contemporary use, while preserving its historical value. Our objective is to help our client transform the building into something modern and functional, without compromising its original character. The challenge was to take an existing design and reimagine the building in a way that could serve future generations. By retaining the key Art Deco features and integrating contemporary elements, we’ve ensured that the building remains relevant and sustainable for the long term. Retrofitting existing buildings is a particularly complex process. Each project is unique, and there are always variables—such as undocumented changes or hidden structural elements—that can complicate the design and construction process. We rely on thorough analysis and flexible approaches to adapt to each building’s specific characteristics, even though the core principles of adaptive reuse remain the same. The original 1926 structure features a concrete-encased steel frame, with a combination of precast concrete and reinforced clay block floors, and rendered brick cavity walls. Our goal was to extend the building vertically by two stories, incorporating internal alterations and inserting new elements to provide both residential and retail spaces. This is a highly intricate operation that demands close coordination with the structural, fire safety, and building control teams, as well as adherence to noise and energy performance standards. Our designs were developed to meet both the latest building regulations and the client’s sustainability goals. The initial plans were provided as 2D drawings, but upon reviewing the site, we noted several discrepancies. To address this, Archidata assisted us by conducting a comprehensive 3D survey, creating a point cloud, and developing a 3D model of the building as it stood. Working with existing structures, a 3D model is essential for ensuring that both the existing conditions and proposed modifications align accurately. Traditional 2D drawings often fail to capture the complexities of level changes and irregular shapes in older buildings. Once the 3D model was established, we integrated the original 2D AutoCAD plans into Revit, which allowed us to begin the detailed design process. Simultaneously, the structural engineer was working on the structural framework within the building. The use of Revit streamlined coordination between the two teams, enabling us to optimisze the design and retain as much of the existing building as possible. This approach not only reduced waste but also minimiszed the need for new materials, which is a key objective in sustainable design. Our next step was to provide the necessary elements for the Building Control submission, ensuring the design could progress to the construction phase. This involved collaborating with the wider design team and managing the release of drawings through the project documentation system. For team members who do not use Revit, we provided links to the model, allowing them to track the project’s development in real-time. Reuse and retrofit projects are some of the most rewarding we undertake. They offer the opportunity to preserve architectural history while minimiszing the environmental impact of new construction. By reducing the need for new materials and repurposing existing structures, we can contribute to a more sustainable and responsible future. Both preservation and sustainability should be the primary considerations when evaluating an existing building for reuse.

Boutique Hotel – Brighton

Renovation of a Boutique Hotel in Brighton

This is our second collaboration with the client, following a successful hotel redevelopment completed in 2018. The project is a property renovation, creating another boutique hotel that is remotely manned and monitored (removing the need for a traditional reception). The hotel is designed to be a fun space in the centre of town, with a focus on super comfy beds and smart tech. Reservations and guest support will be handled in the same way as their first hotel. This time, we’re dealing with a Grade II Listed property situated within the bounds of the historic Brighthelmstone, making it a more complex project. When purchased, the building was in a poor state. The external fire escape route, for example, is beyond repair. And the roof had been covered with a waterproofing membrane that is detrimental to the fabric of the building!  Additionally, some elements of work (such as replacement UPVC windows) had been previously carried out without planning permission and would need rectifying. An initial research phase involved reviewing the history of the building. This included time spent at The Keep as well as various site visits. We prepared a heritage, design and access statement in support of a part-retrospective Listed Building Consent application for the replacement of existing windows and for general refurbishment and minor reconfiguration works. Early engagement was made with the Conservation Officer, and during the design phase, we worked with the council to obtain pre-application advice. This gave our clients piece of mind as to the possibilities for the building. It also gave them an understanding of elements that the Conservation Officer wanted to see, retain and repair. We designed new layouts and spaces and provided detailing. The spaces needed upgrading and we specified products that would satisfy Building Regs, improve the user experience and make the building safe! All of this was required to achieve the relevant consents. Then we developed a package for a competitive tender. This enabled our clients to appoint a contractor with cost confidence. Certain issues were visible from the inside and outside. For example, a large number of areas were damaged by water ingress and damp. We suspected there might also be some hidden problems, and unfortunately, the opening up works revealed a catalogue of issues (described in detail here). We were regularly attending the site to discuss possible solutions with the contractor and clients. Wealso ensured the Conservation Officer was aware of the latest developments, to determine the final scope and interventions required. With the construction phase underway, our ongoing role was that of lead consultant. This involved addressing compliance requirements and ensuring coordination of the design on site. So we liaised with Building Control and were in constant dialogue with the Conservation Officer regarding the sometimes competing standards of compliance v heritage. The Hotel is now finished and in operation https://blok-74.co.uk/ Do check out John’s blog on the progress and things we have found wrong with the building while on site, ‘For the love of lime’

Social Housing – Brighton

Social Housing 3D render in Brighton

We worked with our client to develop the original planning drawings from Lomax Design to generate a set of tender drawings. As well as a specification that the QS could send out to tender for pricing. We worked closely with Lomax to ensure their design intent was kept and with Southdown to ensure their needs for quality and durable products were met. We were embedded in the design team, coordinating the design between the structural and M&E engineers. The building was modelled and detailed in Revit to ensure a coordinated package for the contractors and to minimise site risks. An NBS was created to ensure that the basis of the design was clear and no key elements were missed. Unfortunately due to market changes the project was not built out.

Housing Estate – Angmering

3D render of a Housing Estate in Angmering

We worked with our client to develop this housing estate, after they purchased the land with pre-existing “outline planning” permission and some “reserved matters” approved. The masterplan successfully achieved by Mohsin Cooper had approval for the access, scale of development, landscaping and layout of the site. The remaining reserved matter related to the 18 properties themselves in terms of their appearance – form and materials. The Council did not support the move towards a contemporary development and were looking for materials and building form in line with the village. Keeping within the already approved scale and layout, Cityzen developed the property designs into a reserved matters scheme. The challenge was materials, as a diverse palette reflects the development of the village over time. We worked with the developer to achieve an aesthetic for the housing estate that was in line with their brand goals, while also responding to the planning feedback from previous applications. We fixed the appearance and form, which the Planning Officer was able to approve using delegated powers (no planning committee required). As part of our standard “designing for construction” process, we took account of building regulations and construction considerations at an early stage. This involved the developer confirming a build system, and we assisted with feasibility and cost planning exercises by visiting and liaising with manufacturers. Our client also took on board Cityzen’s goals for moving towards lower carbon construction, and decided on a timber frame solution. To meet our client’s programme requirements, as soon as the planning application was submitted we detailed the designs to demonstrate the compliance of the scheme, liaising with MLM Building Control. Project progress was rapid – the designs were checked by Building Control and submitted to the timber frame manufacturer within 5 weeks of commencing technical design. Alongside the architectural design, building services (mechanical and electrical engineering) design was ongoing. With a fabric first strategy, all properties achieved carbon emission reductions 13-24% beyond building regulations. All of the houses were designed with air source heat pumps for heat and hot water, and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery to further reduce the already low heating demand. New utilities connections were required, so the loadings for the site were established and Cityzen took forward all the utility applications and correspondence, meeting with distributors on site to ensure their quotes reflected the best option for the site. In terms of electricity, this resulted in a small substation being designed. Wastewater from the housing estate required a new sewer to be constructed within the road. We coordinated our design work with third parties – civil and structural engineers and the timber frame manufacturer – to deliver a compliant RIBA stage 4 design to the developer, which they took forward on site appointing under a design and build contract. We have subsequently provided sales plans and visualisations to enable our client to market the site off-plan. Construction commenced early 2020. Although we usually prefer to work up to and including RIBA stage 5 (overseeing the implementation of the design the client has procured), our services are always tailored to the requirements of each individual client’s delivery strategy and view on the project risks.      

New Build – Angmering

New Build house in Angmering

We teamed up with Chesterman Homes once again. This time, we helped them with a new build project in Angmering. We took the project from initial concept through to construction level information, including a tender process and various value engineering exercises. Work on site finished early 2021. First, we produced some early concepts to see what was achievable on the site, working to our client’s early brief (number of dwellings required and maximum footprint in relation to costs). Initially, we applied for outline planning for a pair of semi-detached houses to get the principle of the development approved by the Council under reserved matters. The concept was then translated into a set of planning (RIBA 3) drawings*, taking into account local authority requirements and standards as well as our client’s ideals in terms of materials, spaces, value and brand.  We then submitted an application to clear reserved matters and obtain planning approval. *We designed with construction and building regulations in mind, to ensure the final planning approval was buildable. We then developed and finalised building regulation plans and information, working with a structural engineer to ensure a fully coordinated and achievable building. This led to a full plans submission to private building control and subsequent sign-off. We then produced a detailed construction package, developed the drawings, details and information to add additional specifications. We worked alongside the quantity surveyor, assisting with the tender process and selection of appropriate contractor.  Our most recent task was to value engineer the project with the selected contractor to come up with suitable alternatives to the scheme that offered further value and savings to the client. Minor variations were made to the planning application to take any changes into account.

Reconfiguration – Lewes

Reconfiguration of a house in Lewes

We worked with Bright Green Homes as their architectural partner to collaboratively deliver this project. Bringing us on board gave the client confidence that their contractor would deliver something special. The rear of the house needed a complete reconfiguration. The kitchen and lean-to extension weren’t functioning well. Spaces, and storage was also an issue. So, we redesigned the layout of the ground floor: replacing the lean-to with a side extension and incorporating a new patio into the overall design for indoor/outdoor living. The reconfiguration achieved a light and spacious open-plan kitchen and dining area – offering fantastic views of the garden – and dedicated utility and pantry spaces. Double and triple glazing, together with an insulated floor, has improved the building’s energy performance. The concept design stage involved producing a number of hand-sketched layouts and external elevations, showing how the spaces could be rearranged. After incorporating client feedback into concept revisions, we produced a 3D model of the preferred concept to help the client visualise the internal reconfiguration. This approach gave Bright Green Homes an edge over other contractors as it offered their client so much more than a standard knock-through solution. Once the design was finalised, we carried out a full-measured house survey. This was required to take the scheme through the compliance stage (building regs approval). Finally, we developed a comprehensive construction package – including mechanical and electrical designs – for the contractor to confidently price against. The reconfiguration has transformed the property, as shown by the ‘before’ photos below, compared with the project completion photos. Photographs: copyright Simon Callaghan

Modular Hotel – Oxfordshire

Modular Hotel in Oxfordshire

Our client asked us to develop a modular hotel scheme for outline planning on this Brownfield car park site in Oxfordshire. The site had been underused and was earmarked within the local plan for development, but no one had unlocked the potential for this site. The goal was a 30-year term (for use of the site) and the design brief included: 80 rooms with a generous reception, incorporating floor-to-ceiling Crittall windows and timber cladding. Throughout the design phase, we aimed to create a building that was sustainable and modern. While being sympathetic to the local natural environment and the potential to accommodate a number of ancillary functions over and above the hotel itself.  Modular design and construction offers many advantages: cost certainty, improved build quality, less construction waste, speed of assembly on site, and reduced disturbance for neighbouring properties. The site had a number of constraints which informed our design. Raising the whole building and situating the parking below allowed us to ensure future flood resilience. It would also keep the limited parking local to the building. We chose a slightly longer form for the building as this would both maximise the internal area and prevent historic views from being obscured by a taller design. It also enabled us to nestle the building within the surrounding trees. Hotel room concepts were designed around a number of different module types. We’ve been looking at offsite manufacture and material resources for over 10 years, so we used our modular experience to create a building with the largest modules possible to reduce cost and build time on site. We then developed the site massing and overall layout to inform the final look of the site ready for outline planning.

Luxury New Build – Hove

Luxury New Build in Hove - Built by Cheesmur

We are proud to have worked with Farshid, an internationally acclaimed architect, to deliver her vision and concept for a new home to construction level detail. Acting as the Executive Team, we provided technical design services (both architecture and building services engineering) for this luxury new build project, moving it from RIBA 3 stage to the end of RIBA 4. The pre-construction stages are now concluded. We worked with the FMA team to protect Farshid’s overall vision and provide design solutions, ensuring that the aesthetic requirements could be met by manufacturers who were asked to quote on the project. We translated a concept of “cascade” into a robust set of construction drawings for the luxury new build, enabling a competitive tender to be run. The resulting tender returns were comprehensive and firm, with provisional sums limited only to final finishes not yet decided by the client. This was FMA’s first UK domestic scale project and they now had a UK-compliant construction package to move forward with.