LDA Design’s Post

Thanks Brian Waters for inviting Adam Fothergill and I to give our thoughts on the topic of Permitted Development and Designing for Future Re-use at the London Planning & Development Forum last week! It was a fantastic panel and super interesting hearing the conversations around design codes from Colin Wilson, Ben Derbyshire PPRIBA FRSA HonAIA and Andy von Bradsky (summary: codes and AAPs should be high level, strategic and capture urban design aspirations) and the new City Plan from Gudrun Andrews (making the City a destination 7 days of the week, as well as development plans and how views of landmarks have shaped the tall building policy). Look out for more detail in the next edition of Planning in London!! Short synopsis of our thoughts on PD / future of conversion 👇 We talked about how turning unused office spaces into residential buildings is reshaping our urban landscapes, boosted by revised permitted development rules removing space and vacancy limits. This trend aligns with sustainable development goals and addresses high vacancy rates in high streets and low office occupancy in London. While navigating these rules can be complex, PD may offer quicker planning and construction processes and lower embodied energy. This led us to the conclusion that designing future buildings to be more adaptable from the outset would help increase reuse potential, creating environmentally, socially, and economically responsible urban environments for the future. #architecture #future #livingsectors #retrofitfirst #permitteddevelopment #PD #conversion #coliving #laterliving #residential

🏙️ Urban design can change the lives of autistic people. The way we create our public spaces - from the colours and textures we use to the urban journeys we plan - can be improved to better support their independence and quality of life. At our Neurodiverse Design workshop, we came together with planners, placemakers, architects and people with lived experience to discuss how we can design better spaces for neurodivergent people, including autistic people. And while no two autistic people are the same, many share similar traits - such as having repetitive patterns in behaviour and sensory sensitivities - and would benefit from specific planning and architectural decisions. Flick through for the key workshop takeaways on designing more inclusive environments - focusing on housing, transport and parks 👇 #WorldAutismAwarenessDay If you have any resources on inclusive planning and design, share them in the comments! David Symons, Kate Bondar, Matthew Oastler, WSP in Australia, Sydney Airport, BVN Architecture, We Are Studios, Estelle Grech, NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, JOC Consulting, Urbis, Ethos Urban, Harri Bancroft, Arup, City of Sydney, Bridget Smyth, Nicky Morrison, Centre for Western Sydney, Western Sydney University, University of Technology Sydney, Sarah Ellis, Adrian Bryce Taylor, Belinda McGrath, Harshitha Giriyapura, Henri Mariasson, Dr Kerwin Datu, Penny Graham, Cheyenne Bardos

How do you re-instate lost value in commercial real estate assets? Andrew Howley discusses how the value of a building can take many forms - whether it’s financial value, operational efficiency, or sustainable design that lasts well into the future. The MCA Architects team recognise that value is multifaceted; it goes far beyond just the net lettable area. It’s about creating spaces that deliver on all fronts - now and for years to come. Find out more about MCA's approach to re-igniting value into commercial assets - https://lnkd.in/es4WWnvm. #SustainableDesign #RealEstate #FutureProofing #CommercialValue #CommercialAssets #BuildingEfficiency

Anthony Harris AIA, LEED AP, CDT, a senior architect at Quinn Evans, shares his insights on the transformative renovation of the Capital One Arena in a recent article by the Washington Business Journal. The piece highlights how local architects would reimagine the arena and its adjacent areas. In the article, Anthony emphasizes the area's significance as a focal point for civic and social infrastructure while also highlighting the opportunity for sustainability initiatives. "Sports teams, at their best, can be points of pride and connection, acting as civic institutions as that contribute to a city's identity. This can be especially vital to a city as diverse and transient as the District...[A] modernized Capital One Arena provides an opportunity for the building and the site to embrace its role as a civic asset – contributing not just to the commercial revitalization of the area but also to the civic and social infrastructure of a neighborhood. Capital One Arena could fundamentally reimagine the role of the sports arena by becoming a locus of social life and activity beyond game days or special events, providing a function for residents as well as fans and concert-goers." Learn more about our mission to discover design solutions that enrich lives and make a long-lasting, positive impact 🔗 www.quinnevans.com/mission Subscribed to the WBJ? Read the full article here: https://bit.ly/3TTh2Rr #QuinnEvans #Architecture #UrbanDesign #Sustainability #CommunityDevelopment #CivicInfrastructure #SportsArena #WashingtonDC #WashingtonBusinessJournal

At SBC, we're at the forefront of spearheading the comeback post COVID, with a focus on meeting the markets where they need us. We believe that these developments are not just about constructing buildings but about building vibrant, interconnected communities. These projects are crucial in tackling the pressing housing shortage and revitalizing underused spaces. When blending residential spaces with commercial and retail areas, we're promoting a sustainable lifestyle that minimizes commuting and maximizes convenience. This approach is particularly effective in the densely populated Bay Area, making everyday life more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. We're committed to creating environments where people can live, work, and play seamlessly. Through trusted clients and thoughtful planning, we are not just participating in the recovery; we're leading it. Our vision is clear: to build not only for today but for a thriving, resilient future. Project: 636 Waverly Architect: Hayes Group Architects Inc. Photography: Patrik Argast Photography #mixedusebuilding #mixeduse #architecture #construction #SiliconValley

Hello! I’m Jeroen Bos — Netherlands based architect, member of New Urban Networks EU, and part of the Optoppen consortium. In 1985, my father built an extra floor on our home. As our family expanded and needed more space, the most logical solution was to build on top. 🏡 For me it feels obvious. If there is enough space, and legislation allows it, ‘optoppening’ presents an opportunity to cope with the housing shortage, store carbon in lightweight wooden construction, and to create more floor space in the city. By building up, we can finance the sustainability of existing buildings, give them a second life, and generate benefits for the current residents. For us at New Urban Networks, the power of Optoppen is the perfect solution for densification. Our research studies for municipalities, housing associations and the government architect have illustrated the many benefits optoppen can offer cities, building owners, and residents. Funded by Built by Nature and in collaboration with our research partners, we now have the opportunity to explore this further and identify the advantages and disadvantages in more granular detail. In the meantime, follow this page where I’ll be providing updates via my ‘Diary of an Optoppen.’ Over the course of 2024, I will be following the progress of an Optoppen project, looking at its financing, design, conversations with city planners, and its construction. I’d love to hear what you’d be interested to learn about – answers in the comments below! 👇 Whitby Wood Mule Studio New Urban Networks EU Holland Houtland Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia Creative City Solutions Rising Tide

"Shaping Skylines, One Beam at a Time" 🏗️ As dawn breaks, the silhouette of a rising structure against the morning sky isn't just a sight to behold; it's a symbol of progress. In the realm of construction, we don't just build; we create legacies that stand tall for decades. The dance of steel and hammer echoes the rhythm of innovation, as each beam unites to shape the skylines of our cities. Breaking ground marks the beginning of something monumental—a collaborative effort where architects' dreams meet the steely resolve of workers. Every layer of concrete laid is a testament to this partnership. As an industry, construction doesn't just thrive on blueprints and measurements; it flourishes on the vision that directs our hands. In the UK, the construction sector has seen a remarkable evolution. From the meticulous brickwork of Victorian homes to the glass-clad giants dominating London's financial district, our craftsmanship has journeyed through time, adapting and innovating. Recent statistics indicate a surge in sustainable building practices, with 80% of new projects aiming for eco-friendly certification. It's a proud reflection of our commitment to green construction and a cleaner future. Every project, big or small, carries the weight of responsibility and the potential for legacy. As we helm the tools of creation, let's remain mindful of our role as custodians of the skyline - for we're not just constructing buildings, we're crafting the backdrop of people's lives. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on how construction shapes not just our cities, but our society.👷♂️🏙️💼 #ConstructionInnovation #SustainableBuilding #UKConstruction

9 million sq ft under construction in the City of London, how are you making sure you’re getting a piece of the pie? The City of London's construction scene is booming, gearing up to transform the skyline. But in a city teeming with opportunity, how does your construction brand carve out its share? The competition is fierce. Your brand's image, messaging, and pitch could be the difference between watching from the sidelines and leading the charge. Here’s the deal: It’s not just about what you build, it’s about how you present your vision. In a market where Grade B is being upgraded to Grade A, your pitch needs to resonate with that level of excellence and innovation. Focus on creating visually stunning proposals that not only showcase your previous successes but also mirror the ambition of London’s new architectural era. Your message should speak to the sustainability, innovation, and efficiency that investors are seeking. Now is the time to ask yourself, is your brand ready to stand out in the City's most ambitious era of construction? Are you ready to be part of London's iconic transformation? Let’s discuss how to elevate your pitch and secure your slice of the London construction pie. The future is being built now, make sure you're in on it. #ConstructionBoom #LondonBuilds #BrandExcellence #CityOfLondon #LondonConstruction

'Site optimisation'. A misunderstood term that is often confused with the term 'over-development'. But they are not the same thing. When done well, 'site optimisation' is just that - i.e. it's about making the most of a site that will hopefully be re-shaped for at least the next 200+ years. At Studio Woodford we're committed to thinking for the future and planning responsibly - especially as we find ourselves in a UK housing crisis: Why we are committed to site optimisation: - It can shape contextual, beautiful sustainable homes and places that can complement the site and community whilst fulfilling a real housing need. - It challenges the status quo, whether challenging the quality or merit of the surrounding context, challenging social and political norms, or challenging planning policies and designations that are no longer applicable. -Fundamentally, I believe it's about making those sites that are suitable for development work harder, to protect other sites that do not need to be developed. Newhall by Alison Brooks Architects (main image by ABA) is a fantastic example of site optimisation done well - shaping well crafted, high density, attractive homes whilst making the very most of the site. What are your thoughts on site optimisation? #studiowoodford #architectect #architecture #siteoptimisation

At Davis Kane, we believe that architecture is more than just buildings; it's about creating spaces that inspire and serve communities. Here are a few reasons why we stand out as a leading choice in various industries: 1. Innovative Design: Our team pushes the boundaries of creativity to deliver unique, functional, and aesthetically pleasing designs that meet our clients' needs across sectors, including public safety, higher education, K-12, parks and recreation, and athletics. 2. Community Focused: We are deeply committed to enhancing the communities we serve. Every project reflects our passion for engaging design and environmental stewardship, ensuring our solutions positively impact the world around us. 3. Collaboration: We work closely with our clients, ensuring that your vision is realized every step of the way. Your input is invaluable in shaping our designs! 4. Expertise: With years of experience in designing public safety facilities, educational institutions, recreational spaces, and athletic facilities, our knowledge ensures that we deliver excellence on every project. 5. Awards and Recognition: Our commitment to quality has been recognized in the industry, making us a trusted partner for clients looking for the best. Join us in our mission to create spaces that foster connection, safety, and sustainability!  #DavisKane #TopChoice #Architecture #CommunityFocused #InnovativeDesign #BuildingTheFuture #Education #ParksAndRecreation #Athletics