Buckwell House

Following the successful completion of a student scheme for Brunswick Ltd in Lisson Grove, Plymouth, ADG were appointed as lead designers for the regeneration of a redundant three-storey former employment office in the heart of Plymouth city centre into a student residential complex.

Working closely with Plymouth City Council Urban Designers, a number of design solutions were considered with the final solution providing 67 ensuite bedrooms in clusters, each containing a shared kitchen and dining room, and 34 cycle positions. To achieve this level of development, two further storeys were added to the building and full change-of-use consent negotiated with Plymouth City Council.

The increased height of the building was a contentious issue and the elevations have been designed to create both a striking and affordable landmark on a prominent corner location.

In view of the planned occupation date, the complex framed nature of the existing building and a tight city centre site, extensive analysis of the building fabric was required resulting in a timber framed solution for the additional storeys.

The project was completed within the clients' programme to ensure full occupancy prior to the start of a new academic year.

Bob was the Lead Director, designer and headed the detailed design and construction team.

Since moving north to Stonehaven Bob has completed another detailed Planning and Building Control Application for the same client in Plymouth - Lisson Grove Student Accommodation - showing that remote working was achievable in the Covid challenging times.