New Associate – Amy Hiley

Fleet Architects is thrilled to welcome Amy Hiley as a new Associate, bringing over a decade of experience in the social housing sector to the team. Amy joined Fleet in March 2024, having previously specialized in designing and managing complex medium and large-scale mixed-use and community-led projects. Her work often focuses on sensitive and constrained sites, where she excels in integrating low-energy and Passivhaus design standards. Amy’s expertise in estate renewal, housing schemes, and masterplanning spans all stages of project development, from conception to completion, making her a valuable asset to Fleet Architects.

In addition to her extensive experience in social housing, Amy has also led smaller-scale residential and garden design schemes. Her passion for horticulture and landscape design has driven her to further her qualifications, enhancing her ability to create dynamic and harmonious relationships between architecture and landscape. This unique combination of skills allows Amy to approach projects with a holistic perspective, ensuring that both built and natural environments are thoughtfully integrated.

Amy’s commitment to delivering quality design with a social purpose aligns perfectly with Fleet Architects’ mission. Her collaborative approach to design fosters strong relationships with both public and private sector clients, ensuring that each project meets the highest standards of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Fleet Architects is confident that Amy’s addition to the team will contribute significantly to their ongoing efforts to create innovative, sustainable, and community-focused architectural solutions.

Work Starts at Kernel’s New Brewery Tap

Fleet Architects has embarked on an exciting new project to design a bar and restaurant for Kernel Brewery, leveraging their extensive experience in creating award-winning bars, pubs, and hotels. The project commenced in March 2024 and is set for completion and opening in August. The design process has been heavily influenced by the minimalist, stripped-back branding of Kernel Brewery’s bottle design, aiming to reflect the brewery’s aesthetic ethos while introducing a fresh, contemporary atmosphere.

The new bar and restaurant will feature innovative materials such as hemp board and recycled strand board, chosen for their sustainability and modern appeal. These materials will be used to create a space that is both contemporary and comfortable, aligning with Kernel Brewery’s commitment to quality and simplicity. The design seeks to offer a refined departure from the traditional rough and ready brewery tap ethos without completely abandoning it, maintaining a connection to the brewery’s roots while offering an elevated dining and drinking experience.

Fleet Architects’ design for Kernel Brewery is poised to become a standout addition to the local hospitality scene, blending sustainable materials with a clean, modern aesthetic. This project highlights the firm’s ability to adapt and innovate within different contexts, building on their proven track record in the hospitality sector. The new bar and restaurant will not only enhance the brewery’s brand but also provide a welcoming environment for patrons to enjoy Kernel Brewery’s renowned products in a setting that reflects the brewery’s unique identity.

Health Spaces – Medway Maritime NHS Development Control Plan

The Health Spaces team has collaborated closely with the Medway Maritime NHS Trust to develop a comprehensive Development Control Plan aimed at facilitating sustainable redevelopment of the Medway site. This plan encompasses a phased approach addressing short, medium, and long-term needs, ensuring that immediate pressures are managed while laying the groundwork for future growth and sustainability. The plan incorporates modern design principles and sustainable building practices to reduce the environmental impact and enhance operational efficiency, aligning with the broader NHS goals of achieving net zero carbon emissions (www.healthestatejournal.com) (www.healthestatejournal.com).

In tackling the issue of backlog maintenance, the Medway Maritime NHS Trust has identified critical areas requiring urgent attention to ensure safety and compliance. Compared to other NHS hospitals, Medway’s backlog maintenance has been particularly challenging, partly due to historical underinvestment and the age of its infrastructure. This situation has necessitated prioritizing maintenance within the development control plan to address the most pressing issues while integrating these efforts into the broader redevelopment strategy (Medway NHS) (www.healthestatejournal.com).

The strategic plan developed by the Health Spaces team not only addresses immediate maintenance needs but also integrates these efforts into a long-term vision for the site. By focusing on phased redevelopment, the plan aims to minimize disruptions to patient care and hospital operations while progressively upgrading facilities. This structured approach ensures that resources are allocated efficiently, and improvements are sustainable, ultimately enhancing the quality of care provided at Medway Maritime NHS Trust (www.healthestatejournal.com) (Medway NHS) (www.healthestatejournal.com).

New Starter – Ruairi McCance

Fleet Architects is thrilled to announce the addition of Ruairi McCance to their team in a senior architect role. Joining in January 2024, Ruairi brings a wealth of experience from his previous work in the high-end private residential sector. Over the past five years, he has specialized in designing modern extensions to Victorian terraced houses in London, emphasizing materiality, texture, and the interplay of light and shadow. His adeptness at working within tight spatial constraints and his passion for fine detailing and technical solutions will be invaluable to Fleet Architects’ diverse portfolio.

Ruairi’s extensive on-site experience, often overseeing projects from concept to completion, equips him with practical insights that are crucial for high-quality architectural design. His ability to blend hand-drawing and computer-aided design techniques ensures a seamless integration of traditional and modern methodologies. This skill set aligns perfectly with Fleet Architects’ commitment to delivering innovative and functional designs across various sectors, including healthcare, residential, and public infrastructure.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ruairi is an avid reader and a dedicated sportsman, holding a black belt in Tae Kwon Do and a blue belt in Judo. His unique combination of technical expertise and creative vision, alongside his personal interests, adds a dynamic element to the Fleet Architects team. Ruairi’s addition marks a significant enhancement to Fleet’s capabilities, promising continued excellence in their architectural endeavors.

Fleet Working with South Essex Partnership Trust

Fleet architects, drawing on their extensive experience in technical mental health design, are collaborating closely with the Trust, FM Contractor, and Landlord to address and rectify issues at Brockfield House, a PFI project completed over a decade ago. Their expertise in creating environments that support mental well-being is instrumental in identifying design flaws and operational inefficiencies that may be impacting the facility’s functionality and patient care. By conducting comprehensive assessments and engaging with stakeholders, Fleet architects are devising tailored solutions to enhance the building’s infrastructure, improve patient safety, and ensure compliance with current health standards. Their holistic approach not only addresses immediate concerns but also incorporates sustainable practices to future-proof the facility, aligning with both the Trust’s vision and regulatory requirements.

Health Spaces Team Appointed to Develop Rugby Development Control Plan

The Health Spaces/Fleet team is collaborating with University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire (UHCW) to craft a comprehensive 15-year development control plan for the Rugby St Cross site. This partnership aims to strategically enhance the healthcare infrastructure to better serve the community’s evolving needs. The plan will focus on modernizing existing facilities, incorporating state-of-the-art medical technologies, and expanding capacity to accommodate the anticipated growth in patient volume. By integrating cutting-edge innovations and sustainable design principles, the initiative strives to elevate the quality of care and patient experience at Rugby St Cross.

A significant aspect of this development control plan involves extensive stakeholder engagement and meticulous planning. The Health Spaces/Fleet team, renowned for their expertise in healthcare infrastructure, will work closely with UHCW leadership, healthcare professionals, and community representatives to ensure that the development aligns with both clinical requirements and patient expectations. This collaborative approach ensures that the new infrastructure will support a holistic and patient-centric model of care, enhancing operational efficiency and fostering a healing environment.

Moreover, the 15-year plan underscores a commitment to sustainability and future-proofing the Rugby St Cross site. The development will integrate green building practices, aiming to reduce the carbon footprint and promote environmental stewardship. This long-term vision includes creating adaptable spaces that can evolve with advancements in healthcare delivery and technology. The partnership between Health Spaces/Fleet and UHCW is poised to transform the Rugby St Cross site into a premier healthcare facility, setting a benchmark for excellence and innovation in the region.

Fleet Design Ground Breaking Primary Care Space in South London

Fleet Architects has designed a cutting-edge primary care facility for the Penrose Group, strategically located adjacent to Pasley Park in Walworth, London. This new healthcare center is expected to significantly enliven Pasley Park, transforming it into a vibrant community hub. The facility’s design aims to create a harmonious blend of healthcare services and community engagement, making the park an attractive and bustling area for residents. This integration will not only enhance the overall patient experience but also contribute positively to the local environment and community spirit.

Drawing on their extensive experience in converting non-healthcare spaces into functional medical facilities, Fleet Architects approached this project with a focus on adaptability and efficiency. The new primary care center includes modern consultation rooms, treatment areas, and community spaces, all designed to facilitate efficient patient flow while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere. Fleet’s design principles ensure that the facility meets stringent healthcare standards while also incorporating elements that promote well-being, such as natural light and sustainable materials. This thoughtful approach demonstrates Fleet’s ability to create healthcare environments that are both practical and aesthetically pleasing.

The insights from Jaime Bishop’s article on designing healthcare facilities in third-party spaces played a crucial role in the development of this project. The facility’s design incorporates flexible elements that can adapt to the evolving needs of healthcare services. This adaptability is essential for ensuring long-term usability and efficiency. By repurposing an existing space and enhancing it with modern healthcare amenities, Fleet Architects have set a precedent for future urban healthcare projects. The new primary care center in Walworth not only addresses the immediate medical needs of the community but also revitalizes Pasley Park, fostering a sense of community and well-being

Seaside Gym Opens

Fleet Architects has completed the design and construction of a new seaside gym in Brighton, seamlessly connected to an existing private members club. The project, initiated to provide a state-of-the-art fitness facility in a prime coastal location, officially opened in May 2024. The gym offers stunning views of the sea, enhancing the workout experience with a refreshing and invigorating atmosphere. This new addition is part of a broader vision to expand the club’s amenities, catering to members’ wellness and leisure needs in a stylish and functional environment.

The gym’s design focuses on creating an open, airy space that integrates natural elements, reflecting its seaside location. Large windows allow natural light to flood the interior, while sustainable materials and minimalist aesthetics contribute to a calm, inviting ambiance. Fleet Architects incorporated cutting-edge fitness equipment and a variety of workout zones, from strength training areas to cardio sections, ensuring that members have access to a comprehensive range of exercise options. The design also includes flexible spaces for group classes, catering to diverse fitness interests and activities.

In addition to the gym, the facility features a crèche, providing convenient childcare options for members. This allows parents to enjoy their workout routines knowing their children are in a safe and engaging environment. Other amenities include wellness rooms for relaxation and recovery, enhancing the overall member experience. By connecting the gym to the existing club, Fleet Architects created a cohesive and integrated space that supports a balanced lifestyle, making it a valuable addition to Brighton’s vibrant coastal community.

Health Spaces, Fleet and Gort Scott Collaborate on Ambitious Health on the High Street Scheme

Health Spaces, Fleet Architects, and Gort Scott have joined forces on an ambitious “Health on the High Street” scheme within 45 minutes of central London. This innovative project aims to repurpose a large, unused concrete-framed department store into a comprehensive healthcare and residential facility. The redesigned space will accommodate up to four operating theatres, recovery areas, two non-specialist outpatient departments, and three endoscopy rooms. Additionally, the upper floors will be transformed to provide key worker housing, with an extension to the host building to maximize the available space. This project epitomizes the creative reuse of existing built assets, integrating health services into the heart of the community.

The collaboration between Health Spaces and Fleet Architects is central to maximizing the potential of this redevelopment. Their combined expertise ensures that the design is both functional and innovative, meeting the highest standards of healthcare provision while also addressing the critical need for key worker housing. The integration of health services into a high street location is a strategic move to make healthcare more accessible and visible to the community. By repurposing the existing structure, the project also emphasizes sustainability and the efficient use of resources, reducing the need for new construction and preserving the architectural heritage of the area.

Gort Scott’s involvement adds a layer of architectural excellence, ensuring that the transformation is not only practical but also aesthetically pleasing. The project will see the upper floors extended to create additional housing, providing much-needed accommodation for key workers close to their place of employment. This aspect of the scheme highlights a holistic approach to urban redevelopment, where healthcare, housing, and community services are seamlessly integrated. The “Health on the High Street” initiative is poised to become a model for similar projects, demonstrating how underutilized urban spaces can be revitalized to serve contemporary needs effectively.

Site Redevelopment Strategy – Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust

The Health Spaces team has diligently crafted proposals to consolidate inpatient activities onto a single site, leveraging Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) to ensure the highest quality and safety standards. By conducting thorough analyses of current operations, patient flows, and facility capabilities, the team identified key areas where efficiencies could be gained through consolidation. This approach not only optimizes the use of resources but also enhances patient care by centralizing services, thus minimizing the need for inter-site transfers and reducing associated risks.

To achieve this, the team proposed the utilization of MMC, which encompasses innovative construction techniques such as modular construction, prefabrication, and advanced digital planning tools. These methods allow for faster project completion, higher precision in construction, and reduced on-site disruptions. By incorporating MMC, the team ensures that the new consolidated site is built to the highest standards of quality and safety, incorporating state-of-the-art facilities and technologies that support optimal patient outcomes and staff efficiency. The design also responds to the natural context, respecting the topography and preserving mature trees to create pavilions in a parkland setting with access to sports pitches and views of squirrels gathering food, enhancing the healing environment.

Additionally, the proposals emphasize the creation of a patient-centric environment that promotes healing and well-being. This includes designing flexible spaces that can adapt to changing healthcare needs, integrating sustainable building practices, and enhancing infection control measures. By consolidating inpatient activity onto a single, modernized site, the Trust can streamline operations, improve patient experiences, and uphold the highest standards of care and safety. The Health Spaces team’s strategic and innovative approach positions the Trust for a future-ready healthcare delivery model, capable of meeting the evolving demands of the healthcare landscape.