Integrating the Building Safety Act Principal Designer role within the Lead Designer appointment
In his latest blog, Director Colin Briggs-Campbell highlights the critical role of the Building Safety Act (BSA) Principal Designer (PD) in ensuring legislative compliance, fostering personal growth, and providing reassurance.
1 – Legislative compliance
Hold up, hold up, before your eyes roll, let me explain. Yes, absolutely, there’s tonnes of formal and official guidance on the requirements of the Building Safety Act and the ethos behind the findings from the Grenfell inquiry. However, what about our duties as professionals, our raison d’être, our own moral compass? If you’re anything like me, I’ve worked hard to qualify as the Architect I am today and have immense pride in the work I deliver.
Quite simply, the ethos of The Act is to provide clarity on who is responsible for what. To achieve this, the Building Safety Act Principal Designer Role requires a competent professional to be integrated within the team, to track decision-making, planning, managing and monitoring along the way.
I’m super proud of the work my colleagues undertook as early adopters of the Building Regulations Principal Designer role. They have produced a suite of templates and straightforward documents to assist all our project leaders in their delivery of this key role.
2 – Opportunities for personal growth
Anyone that knows me, knows how passionate I am about helping our next generation of Architects on their journey to qualification. We have an excellent Academy at Bowman Riley which supports a diverse range of people on their career pathways.
The Building Safety Act Principal Designer Role, integrated within the Architectural appointment allows more opportunities for our next generation to visit site. The BSA PD role requires more time on site to ensure any changes are documented appropriately. It seems obvious, but this can only be a great thing for our junior colleagues, many of whom have experienced an educational journey online. Real-life building sites offer a multitude of opportunities to see how things get built, best practices and learning from our experienced colleagues.
And it’s not just junior colleagues that will benefit. An opportunity to leave our screens and meet people on site is great for variation to our daily routine, perhaps even improving our mental wellbeing along the way.
3 – Client Reassurance
I find a real variation in how our clients understand their duties and the impact of the Building Safety Act. Some have an awareness, some a deeper understanding but many are looking for reassurance that they’re discharging their duties correctly, fairly and minimising risk. Not many people are comfortable knowing they’re cutting corners when it comes to safety.
Integrating the BSA PD role within the Architectural appointment really ought to be the default for us all. I like to think we’re a “safe pair of hands” when it comes to our knowledge, skills, and behavioural approach to embracing this important factor in our role. For me, it’s key to demonstrate reliability, calmness, and competence when it comes to our ability to deliver this role effectively. This is much easier to achieve when the role is integrated within the lead designer or architectural commission and, importantly, aligns with the ethos of The Act.
Lastly, for my Jerry Springer moment (perhaps this is showing my age?!), this blog represents my thoughts and perspectives, written by me (and proofread the old-fashioned way by my colleague, Megan Johnson) without resorting to the ever-tempting AI resource. Why? Because I wanted to keep it real, human-type stuff, a real-life perspective.
Reflections on MIPIM: Changes Since 2019
In her latest blog, Senior Associate Samantha Jevons reflects on a week in Cannes and how much has changed in the world of MIPIM since she first started attending this incredible week of events in 2019.
The atmosphere and dynamics at MIPIM have shifted significantly. Four key changes I’ve noticed speak volumes about the current state of the property and real estate industry.
1. Less of Peacocking and More Business
One of the most striking shifts has been the reduction in the peacocking along the Croisette. Back in 2019, it felt as though the week had a bit of a “show-off” culture, with people (mainly men) strutting along in flashy suits and Ray-Bans. Fast forward to today, and there’s been a notable change. There’s much less posing and more focus on meaningful business conversations. The glossy façade has faded, replaced by a deeper engagement in the issues that are shaping the industry.
It’s refreshing to see people engaging in serious, purposeful discussions. The pose has become less important than the substance. MIPIM is now less about spectacle and more about collaboration, insight, and tackling real-world issues within our sector.
2. More Diverse and Inclusive: A Broader Range of Voices
Another change I’ve experienced first-hand is that MIPIM is much more diverse and inclusive. There’s a palpable shift towards gender and ethnic diversity, and this has been one of the most welcome transformations. Women are taking their rightful place at the event, and there’s a real push to ensure that everyone has a presence.
This inclusivity isn’t just in numbers; it’s in the conversations, too. The perspectives and approaches from diverse groups are leading to more creative and innovative solutions. It feels like the industry is embracing the richness of experience that comes from having a broad range of voices driving the conversation forward.
3. A Shift in Focus: Practicality Over Partying
Perhaps one of the most noticeable changes has been the shift away from extravagant yacht parties and over-the-top events. While networking is still a key part of MIPIM, the marketing budgets seem to be much more carefully spent. Companies are far more strategic with their investments, choosing to focus on the aspects of the event that truly provide value for their businesses. We’ve seen a lot less of the traditional showy events and much more focus on private one-to-one meetings, strategic partnerships, and intimate lunches and dinners.
4. The UKREiiF Impact
Since 2022, UKREiiF has also played a pivotal role in this shift towards serious business conversations. However, whereas the UK counterpart prioritises alliances with local authorities and the wider public sector, MIPIM focuses on private investment and financing for development projects. The emphasis is now on making developments viable and ensuring that the real estate industry stays on course despite the challenging times we face.
5. More Serious Business Conversations: Addressing Industry Challenges
The importance of serious, constructive dialogue cannot be understated. MIPIM 2025 is all about addressing some of the pressing issues facing the industry today, such as the implications of the Building Safety Act and the ongoing planning constraints. These are not topics that can be ignored or glossed over. They are shaping the future of the industry, and MIPIM has become a forum where these issues are discussed head-on.
In Conclusion
As I reflect on today’s MIPIM versus 2019, I’m filled with optimism. The changes I’ve witnessed show an industry that’s evolving in a positive direction – one that’s more inclusive, pragmatic, and focused on tackling the challenges ahead. While there’s still much to be done, I believe that the lessons we’ve learned will continue to shape the future of our sector. Here’s to the next chapter of MIPIM and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead!
On Tuesday, January 28, Red Kite Learning Trust marked a significant milestone with the official opening of its newly expanded Sixth Form facilities. A lively crowd of students, staff, and local dignitaries gathered to witness the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung, the Lord Mayor of Leeds.
Designed by Bowman Riley, this exciting new development boosts Temple Moor High School’s capacity, offering an additional 175 sixth-form places, bringing the total to 350. The state-of-the-art expansion provides students with top-tier facilities, including seven new classrooms, a dedicated study area, an upgraded ICT suite, and an expansive common room featuring a servery, as well as designated spaces for a cybercafé and socialising.
The newly opened extension ensures that Temple Moor Sixth Form students have access to the resources they need to thrive, both academically and socially.
Josie Brogan and Rachel Knight qualify as Architects
We are thrilled to announce that Josie Brogan and Rachel Knight have successfully passed their Part III exams and are now eligible to apply for registration with the ARB as architects.
This is a significant achievement, and we are incredibly proud of their dedication and hard work. Their commitment to studying and preparing for this important milestone has truly paid off, and we are excited to see what they will accomplish as qualified architects.
Congratulations Rachel and Josie on this remarkable achievement. We look forward to witnessing their continued success in their professional careers.
Robert Sharples qualifies as a Conservation Architect
Working within our heritage team for the past two and a half years, Robert is currently working on the Grade II-listed Learning and Skills Centre in south Leeds and on a new building within the grounds of a Grade I-listed heritage asset in North Yorkshire.
With 17 years of experience, Robert has worked on many historic buildings during his career, producing comprehensive information packages and design and access statements, listed building consent applications, heritage statements, extensive Heritage Impact Assessments, and condition surveys.
Robert’s qualification as a conservation architect strengthens the expertise of our in-house heritage team and allows us to expand our work on historic buildings and sites.
Women in Property Roundtable: Unveiling the Complexity of Repurposing Heritage Buildings
Bowman Riley hosted a Women in a Property breakfast roundtable discussion on repurposing heritage buildings on Wednesday, 17th April, in our Leeds office.
Samantha Jevons, our Marketing and Business Development Associate, reflected on the ideas and experiences shared by the roundtable participants.
The topic of the debate, “Historic Buildings: Are They Worth Repurposing?” is not merely a question of renovation or preservation; it’s a multifaceted exploration of the challenges and opportunities inherent in the stewardship of our built heritage.
Chaired by Helen Walker, our Head of Heritage and a Conservation Architect, the roundtable brought together a diverse array of property professionals and public sector representatives.
Helen’s opening question, probing whether clients perceive historic buildings as assets or liabilities, set the stage for a rich exchange of perspectives.
Holly Gerrard’s observations from ID Planning resonated with many of us: while some clients cherish their heritage assets and embrace their architectural heritage, others grapple with the financial burdens and risks associated with renovation projects.
Jenny Bedford from Buttress’s insight into the “viability gap” underscored the economic realities that often complicate heritage refurbishment efforts.
Yet, amidst the challenges, there emerged a sense of optimism and pragmatism. April Marsden from Bowman Riley’s suggestion of creating maintenance strategies for clients struck a chord, highlighting the importance of proactive stewardship in preserving our architectural legacy. Helen Walker’s call for a Building Standards Document from Historic England garnered widespread support, recognising the need for accessible guidance in navigating the complexities of heritage projects.
Alexis Nicolaidis from VA Heritage made a poignant remark on the disconnect between clients’ expectations and the realities of heritage refurbishment, which struck a chord with many of us. Indeed, as professionals in the field, we often find ourselves tasked with guiding clients through the labyrinthine process of heritage projects, navigating constraints and technical challenges.
Helen Bower, representing Kirklees Council, offered valuable insights into the role of conservation officers in bridging the gap between preservation and adaptation. Her emphasis on the importance of expertise and sensitivity in approaching heritage projects underscored the nuanced nature of our work.
Rachael Martin from ID Planning commented that solicitors should provide a fact sheet for clients to help them understand their legal obligations around owning and maintaining a heritage asset.
Also, from Kirklees Council, Sebastian Pickles’ remarks encapsulated the essence of our discussion, emphasising the need for proactive engagement and a deep understanding of the complexities inherent in heritage buildings. His reminder that what may appear as a simple renovation project on the surface often conceals layers of history and architectural evolution resonated with us all.
Dora deGraft Aidoo from Artic Associates commented that her team works on churches owned by people who love their buildings, see them as community assets, are in it for the long term, and take advice from their architects and surveyors.
Helen Walker spoke about the value that the heritage industry has brought to the economy over the past few years.
Damian Woolliscroft from Buttress said that this surge in activity is largely due to increased levels of government funding from Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) to Towns funding and Levelling Up but wonders about how sustainable this will be once the funding disappears.
Alexis Nicoladis commented that there is another long-term issue around a skills shortage in traditional tradespeople. She said that the industry and education need to encourage young people to consider careers in thatched roofing, drystone walling, stone masonry and other skills and there needs to be more apprenticeships.
Jenny Kitchen from Building Rapport said that she is working with Bradford Council to understand the skills shortage and create opportunities in endangered trades and crafts.
The conversation then turned to the challenge of retrofitting old buildings and how the need to modify properties to be more sustainable can clash with the need to preserve the historic building.
Damian Wolliscroft said that retrofit is certainly a buzzword but asked if it had really taken off at pace?
Sebastian Pickles said that Kirklees Council had seen a huge number of applications to retrofit old buildings. He felt that the applicants were not necessarily looking at the building holistically and that people don’t necessarily realise how complex it is.
Jenny Bedford commented that more understanding is needed to address climate change within a heritage setting.
Helen Walker’s closing remarks said that there is clearly work to be done to chart a course towards a future where the process of refurbishing and repurposing historic buildings is made clearer and more transparent so that our built heritage can continue to create opportunities for vibrant re-use that inspire and enrich our communities.
Thank you to everyone who attended the Women in Property roundtable and contributed their thoughts. The roundtable was attended by: Alexis Nicolidis from VA Heritage, Dora deGraft Aidoo from Arctic Associates, Damian Wooliscroft and Jenny Bedford from Buttress, Holly Gerrard and Rachael Martin from ID Planning, Holly Smith from HLPC, Jenny Kitchen from Building Rapport, Helen Bower and Sebastian Pickles from Kirklees Council, Michelle Burpoe from Lanpro, Jessica Lawton from Garnett Netherwood, Helen Walker, April Marsden and Samantha Jevons from Bowman Riley.
This blog is intended to be a reflection of the session rather than a complete record of the discussion. Apologies if there are any misquotes or misunderstandings.
Nikoleta Daritkova promoted to Senior Architectural Technologist
Nikoleta Daritkova has been promoted to Senior Architectural Technologist in recognition of her technical expertise and dedication.
From Bulgaria, Nikoleta joined our London team in 2021 and has over nine years of experience and a degree in Architectural Technology in Denmark and undertook a work placement in Germany.
Most of Nikoleta’s professional experience is within London’s residential sector, where she has worked on new apartment buildings including Acton Gardens Urban Village for Countryside Partnerships, part pf the Vistry Group, new-build houses and listed building refurbishments.
Blog: Breaking barriers and empowering young people through inclusive architecture
To mark Disability History Month, architect Craig Mewse discusses with RIBA designing educational spaces that empower young people with disabilities.
In celebration of UK Disability History Month 2023, RIBA is proud to spotlight the theme of disability, children, and youth. This special focus brings attention to the vital role that architecture and design play in creating accessible educational environments for children and young people with disabilities.
At Bowman Riley, we have had the privilege of working on projects that enhance access to educational settings, and that demonstrate our commitment to creating a more inclusive educational environment for people with disabilities.
In this blog, I explore the brief and objectives, the accessibility measures adopted, collaboration with end users, and the broader message for architects designing inclusive educational spaces.
From outdated to accessible: Brooklands Community Special School
The Yorkshire Children’s Charity asked Bowman Riley to contribute to their Great Yorkshire Build Initiative, a project to improve the outdated and inadequate facilities at Brooklands Community Special School in Skipton, North Yorkshire.
The project delivered state-of-the-art school facilities, creating environments where staff feel re-energised to teach, and children feel excited to learn.
The project refurbished the school’s early years classrooms, providing wheelchair access to the external play areas, a new fully inclusive sensory room, and a specialist rebound therapy centre within a bespoke new building.
The school was transformed into a welcoming and fully-accessible space, ensuring that children with disabilities can thrive.
A vital update: Sandside Lodge School
At Sandside Lodge School in Ulverston, Cumbria, Bowman Riley was appointed by Seddon to be their design partner for a new school, through the North West Construction Hub. This was on behalf of Cumbria County Council.
It replaced a building that was no longer fit for purpose with a teaching environment for 80 pupils, aged from two to 19 years old. These students have complex learning difficulties and disabilities, such as autism, physical disabilities, and sensory impairments.
Understanding needs and user-centric design
On these projects, it was crucial to understand the unique needs and wishes of young people with disabilities.
We conducted comprehensive research, engaged with specialists, and listened to the experiences and challenges faced by the end users. Through extensive engagement with the end users, we established what was critical to the success of each project.
This participatory approach resulted in spaces that are not only accessible, but also cater to the preferences and needs of young people.
Empowering through education: removing barriers for children and young people with disabilities
Architecture has the power to create an environment that encourages people to thrive.
In an inclusive educational setting, individuals can learn, grow, and develop their full potential. By removing barriers and fostering a supportive atmosphere, architecture becomes a catalyst for empowerment.
To remove barriers for children and young people with disabilities at Brooklands School and Sandside Lodge, we considered the following fundamental design principles in each scheme:
Sensory design
For learners with sensory sensitivities or processing disorders, special educational buildings should incorporate sensory-friendly design elements to help reduce anxiety and overstimulation.
At Brooklands School, we designed zonal and adjustable lighting throughout the learning environment, controlled according to the type of teaching activity taking place. Soft finishes and furnishings were also specified and strategically placed to absorb excessive noise where required.
At Sandside Lodge School, colour was a key design tool used to stimulate different sensory responses, according to the type of environment.
Warm colours were used in areas of high activity, such as the soft-play room. Pink, being neither warm or cool, was used in some rooms for its calming and sedative effects.
Green and blue colours help to relax the nervous system and promote a feeling of well-being. Therefore, these were used extensively throughout the school, but especially within the general teaching areas.
Each floor was colour-coded to increase legibility and wayfinding throughout the school.
Accessibility and inclusivity
Specialist educational buildings are designed with a focus on accessibility.
At Sandside Lodge, we had the opportunity to develop the levels around the site to provide easy access for all users, but especially those with physical impairments.
Within the building, we designed wide circulation spaces, large elevators, and wider doorways to ensure ease of movement, reduce physical barriers, and promote a sense of belonging.
At Brooklands School, single doors between the classrooms and external teaching areas were replaced with full-width bi-folding glazed doors. This helped to improve natural light within the building, while also allowing unhindered transition to the external teaching and play areas.
Flexibility in design
Educational buildings for learners with disabilities should be flexible. This is to allow spaces to be adapted to meet the specific needs of different students and to accommodate changes over time.
At each of our schools, the spaces are designed free of obstructions. They use lightweight building systems that can easily be adapted to suit the changing needs of the school over time.
We worked extensively with specialist care equipment suppliers at Sandside Lodge to design a discreet, full-coverage, overhead hoist system between all classrooms and adjacent spaces. This was also included within the hydrotherapy pool and medical, physiotherapy, and sensory rooms to ensure a fully-inclusive learning environment.
Specialised facilities
To provide young people with a supportive learning environment that motivates and engages, it is essential to consider the specialist facilities required for their needs.
At Brooklands School, we designed a dedicated rebound therapy centre for its 80 pupils. This aimed to provide therapeutic exercise promoting strength and coordination, as well as helping to develop communication skills and alleviating anxiety.
Through early engagement with end users at Sandside Lodge, it was clear that the inclusion of a hydrotherapy pool would be critical to the success of the project.
Hydrotherapy is a part of alternative medicine, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy that involves water for pain relief and treatment. The temperature of the pool water helps the body and muscles relax, helping to heal injuries and improve circulation and respiration.
We worked closely with specialist care providers to design a state-of-the-art hydrotherapy centre for the young people at the school and those within the wider community.
The impact on users
Donna Stretton, Headteacher at Sandside Lodge School, said:
“The new Sandside Lodge School building offers a huge range of additional experiences and opportunities for our students. We now have the space to be creative and provide an even more personalised approach to learning.
“The specialised rooms such as Sensory Movement and Regulation, Experience Room, and Thrive Play allow the staff to support students with all aspects of their development, including physical, sensory and emotional, in a more accessible way.
“The students have waited a long time for this building but it’s been well worth the wait.”
Fran Cracknell, Headteacher at Brooklands School, said:
“I’ve wanted to have a facility that would allow us to offer rebound therapy to our pupils for many years, but it was never achievable – until now. I’m thrilled and gratified that the Great Yorkshire Build will make such a difference to our pupils, their families, and our dedicated staff. I thank all those taking part.”
An inclusive society
Architecture holds a pivotal role in creating an accessible and inclusive society.
By designing educational spaces that empower young people with disabilities, we contribute to a world where everyone – regardless of their abilities – can learn, thrive, and contribute to their communities.
As architects, it is our responsibility to ensure that our designs break down barriers, remove obstacles, and inspire the next generation.
To commemorate Disability History Month 2023, let us continue to work towards a more inclusive world where young people with disabilities can access education without limitations. Architecture can play a leading role in this transformative journey.
Together, we can build a more inclusive, diverse, and accessible future for all.
Sponsored by Bowman Riley, the Forum for the Built Environment (fbe) Leeds branch organised a site tour and talk on Tuesday, 29 November, at the George Hotel site in Huddersfield.
The George Hotel is an elegant 1851 landmark building with an Italianate façade designed by William Walker next to the railway station to meet the needs of the Victorian traveller.
Vacant since 2013, Kirklees Council purchased the Grade II* listed local landmark as a key part of their Station Gateway project and their 10-year vision for the regeneration of Huddersfield as identified in their Blueprint project.
Over 40 construction and property professionals booked onto the event. We gathered for networking and a hearty brunch in the Arcade café before the talk and site tour of the George Hotel. Representing Bowman Riley as the sponsor and a member of the fbe committee, Samantha Jevons welcomed guests. She introduced John Lambe from Kirklees Council and Helen Walker, our Head of Heritage, who both spoke passionately about the George and the pivotal role it will play in the future of Huddersfield.
We then all went onto the site to tour the lower floors of the interior and look externally at the repair work underway by the main contractor, William Birch and the Stone Masons, Mono Masonry.
Our role as architect and conservation architect has been to help bring this listed building back into use, prolong the life of the building fabric and enhance the significance of the external façade through the replacement of inappropriate interventions. We have subsequently been appointed to transform the building into a hotel working with Kirklees Council’s development partner, Queensberry and the hotel operator Radisson Red.
The feedback on the event has been very positive, with everyone gaining a greater insight into the repair work needed on this major historic landmark and the transformation needed to secure the building’s long-term future.
How Grant Funding can help Developers – Getting it Right, a New Briggate Walking Tour
Join Anita Rebaudo on a New Briggate Walking Tour to hear about the New Briggate High Street Heritage Action Zone grant scheme from an architect’s perspective, hear updates on the grant-funded project at 33-45 New Briggate and see inside the building.
33-45 new Briggate is the first property on the street to receive a grant as part of the New Briggate High Street Heritage Action Zone. Anita will lead a talk on the project and the proposals for the building. She will cover the complexities and challenges of conservation and refurbishment works in traditional buildings. This will be balanced with the requirements of the local city council, property owner, tenants, and the local neighbourhood, as well as bringing the building to suitable modern standards.
The Heritage Action Zone Grant funds conservation standard works, and Anita will also talk about engaging with the Council and Historic England in developing the application for the grant, and how this has affected the emerging development proposals.
The former Central Hotel will eventually be converted to apartments, and the exterior repaired and conserved as part of the grants scheme including the installation of new windows and shopfronts. However, with the initial stage of preparatory works completed the building is currently vacant. Attendees will have a rare opportunity to go inside the building and see it as an empty shell before conversation works take place. Anita will talk about the building structure, its traditional fabric, and the challenges this brings to proposals for conversion.
Anita’s talk is brought to you as part of the New Briggate High Street Heritage Action Zone, a partnership between Leeds City Council and Historic England, delivering heritage-led regeneration of New Briggate.
