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.
Racquet Court
Cityzen was commissioned by Hawes Construction and Eastbourne Council under a Pre-Construction Services Agreement to collaborate on the restoration of the historic Victorian Racquet Court. This project, part of the ongoing Devonshire Quarter works, aims to transform the court into a versatile performance space and a functional storage facility. Originally constructed in 1884, the Racquet Court is attributed to architect Henry Currey and reflects the exclusive character of Devonshire Park at the time, given that racquets was a niche, upper-class sport. Cityzen’s role has so far involved a comprehensive analysis of the building’s current condition to assess the scope of necessary repairs and interventions. We are tasked with ensuring that this Listed building meets modern Building Regulations and safety standards, preserving its historical integrity while securing its future use. Proposed Use The proposed vision seeks to reintegrate the Racquet Court into the Winter Garden complex and the broader community, providing a regenerative economic opportunity to support its maintenance and operational viability. The scheme introduces an internal mezzanine to create a central performance and multimedia space, complemented by a new studio above the Buccaneer pub restrooms to the south, as well as an amenity space and viewing gallery to the north. Externally, the design preserves the building’s believed original detailing, while internally, the restoration retains key historical architectural elements; such as stair balustrades, segments of original flooring, and structural features, while updating the space for modern functionality. This approach honours the heritage of the 140 year old Racquet Court while enhancing its utility for contemporary needs.
Conservation Area Office
We worked with the client to develop the original planning drawings from Lomax Design to generate a set of building regulation drawings to enable the client’s contractor to take the design to site. The end goal was to take the existing 2 story building and add an extra floor of usable space within it whilst keeping to the original planning design developed by Lomax Design. We worked closely with the team to ensure their design intent was kept and to ensure their needs for quality and durability of products were met. We coordinated the design between the structural and M&E engineers to help the client’s team get to a final design and get the building signed off. The building was modelled and detailed in Revit to ensure a coordinated package for the contractors. As well as to minimise site risks as the building was of interest because it was adjacent to a listed property and in a conservation area. There were a lot of interested parties. The building was successfully handed over in late 2022.
University of Sussex Laundry Building – Brighton
We worked with Cheesmur to develop the original planning drawings from McConvilles Surveying to generate a set of Building regulation drawings as part of their D&B contract. We worked closely with the team to ensure their design intent was kept and to ensure their needs for quality and durability of products were met. Speed of build and a short programme was everything so the discussion and thought around the most time efficient and cost effective solution was highly important. Pre-fab solutions and SIPs were considered, but the manufacturing timescales would not meet the required programme in this instance. Between the contractor, structural engineer and ourselves we arrived at the solution of the raft concrete slab, timber framed system. This took account of the shallow services and existing site conditions, speed of build required, availability of materials and cost. During the design phase we coordinated the design between the structural and M&E engineers, to ensure there were no clashes on site and to minimise on-site problems. The building was modelled and detailed in Revit to ensure a coordinated package for the contractors, and to minimise site risks. From this, we were also able to create Visuals for the clients to show what the building would look like for their inhouse marketing and communications. The building was handed over ready for the Autumn 2022 semester.
River Beach School Extension – Littlehampton
Working with the contractor, our role was to deliver a small extension to River Beach Primary School school in West Sussex to provide a new classroom and changing room spaces. The extension was tying into an existing school building (Food tech room) and altering the means of escape which required consideration and coordination with building control and the clients around their existing fire strategy and usage. The new flat roof construction was to junction with an existing flat roof which contained asbestos, throwing up some additional challenges around the detailing and construction process.
Boutique Hotel – 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
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.
St. James’ Square – London
We worked with the contractor to deliver the thermal, airtightness and leadwork design packages on this project in St James Square, London. It involved the retention of the listed façade and complete demolition and redevelopment of the internal structure to provide new commercial and office space. As part of their construction works, we were employed to develop the overarching architects’ work as part of the Contractors Design Portion for the Thermal envelope. It included detailing of the walls to provide an insulated and air tight box to meet building regulations. This work included coordination with the existing historic fabric, meeting the needs of the structure (which had already been inserted into the building prior to our appointment) and ensuring that the fire stopping was feasible within the spaces allocated. Within this work, we also undertook interstitial condensation and U-Value calculations to ensure the building performance was met as part of the final SBEM calculations. Coordination of the thermal and airtightness and detailing with fire, structure, retained façade and the original architects design intent around the doors and windows, floors and ceilings was complex. Although it was a worthwhile and rewarding challenge which enabled the architects’ vision and the building’s history to both be intact.