Build Magazine 14 Architecture Robert Rowett Architectural Services is a well-established practice based in Lostwithiel, Cornwall, with a longstanding reputation for providing quality architectural and planning services. The practice is committed to promoting an architecture with integrity and sound design principles, and their portfolio comprises of a wide variety of schemes ranging from work on listed buildings, conversions, extensions and new build developments for both residential and commercial projects. Established in 1991, the company was born out of the singular vision of Robert Rowett. As a member of both the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists and the Association for Project Safety, with over 35 years of experience in the construction industry, the establishment of his own practice since inception has seen it grow steadily, employing a small team of dedicated staff. “We have a proven track record of innovative designs, effective problem solving and attention to detail. Our goal is to meet and exceed the expectations of every client,” Robert states. “We take on all types of jobs from small domestic work to commercial projects, all carried out to the highest standards. “Our company prides itself on the delivery of sustainable architectural design solutions,” Robert says simply. Placing a great deal of importance on the contextual nature of his firm’s proposals, he firmly believes that strong conceptual design is backed with elegant robust detailing. The firm now works on a variety of projects – from private houses, extensions, listed buildings and barn conversions to small residential developments and a range of commercial work, including hotels, residential homes and industrial buildings. “More recently, we have taken on interesting projects such as the extension and alteration of a Grade II Listed house and conversion of barns near St Veep, Cornwall and the conversion of a hotel to apartments, along with eight new-build residential units, in a Conservation area in Mevagissey. The latter was recently granted Planning Permission after long negotiation with Cornwall Council.” Robert and his team endeavour to promote principles of sound design and sustainability in architecture. This process requires an acute understanding of the site, materiality, quality of construction, the economic viability of the project, and its prospective future use. Furthermore, a number of core themes guide the evolution and direction of all of the firm’s undertakings: • Understanding the site through surveys and topographical surveys, • Minimising energy use in transportation, • The use of local, natural and re-cycled materials, Elegant Vision, Robust Design E • Employing robust and efficient construction methods, • The involvement of the local community, • Simulating environmental qualities through digitalisation, from conceptual design to detailed construction drawings, • Implementation of Building Information Management (BIM) The latter is especially important to Robert, who recognises that BIM has become more and more the fulcrum of conversation in the building industry. “We use a variety of CAD software to ensure that architectural designs and specifications are efficient.” The biggest aim, in Robert’s mind, is for the company’s clients to be happy. Having received ISO 9001:2008 quality standard accreditation for its management systems in 2008 has certainly helped him to continually improve his systems and make good on this pledge. “With the help of our ISO 9001:2008 accreditation, in the last few years we have cut down our paper consumption by a large percentage, instead using digital methods of checking and marking up drawings - which is ultimately good for the environment. Stage approvals are now sent out to clients before submissions of drawings to any local authority, these help us to keep on top of client satisfaction and mitigate problems before they arise. “We can provide our services during any or all stages of your project, from inception to construction, and will tailor them to suit your specific needs. For example, we can advise on design options, prepare the necessary drawings and documents to obtain full planning approval, or if you already have planning permission, we can develop your approved drawings to add construction information to obtain Building Regulations approval. During construction work we can undertake contract administration, site inspections and issue Architectural Certificates to satisfy mortgage companies.” Robert highlights one particular incidence where these practices came into full realisation: a project based around the design and implementation of an Eco- House at Trevarrick Road. “A new energy-efficient dwelling was required to replace an existing dilapidated prefabricated concrete bungalow with pleasant views to the southeast across the townscape. Our clients desired a home to accommodate them and their four children, but without building higher. “The existing bungalow was demolished, and the solution to the lack of space was to build into the ground of the sloping site. This concept hid the majority of the house from view, helped insulate the ground floor and as an added bonus the new ridge height was lower than the original bungalow, pleasing the neighbours. Living rooms and main bedroom are located on the upper floor with folding glazed doors onto a large terrace to take advantage of the views and southern orientation. “The proposal was a ‘fabric first’ approach, well insulated and airtight to require minimal heating. Heat is provided via an Air Source Heat Pump with underfloor heating and was designed to minimise energy use. The clients did not want to install photovoltaic panels but this is always a future option on the southern facing roof.” By working with clients and creating solutions, all documents are verified under the discipline of the ISO 9001 Quality Standard and everyone in the office is encouraged to keep up to date with technical literature and maintain continuing professional development. “We try to add a personal touch to our projects,” Robert concludes. “We are not a large office, we work directly with our clients to make sure they are happy and are rewarded when we receive ‘thank you’ messages and cards. We are happy to evolve and move with the times, as a testament to this one of our biggest sources of advertising is word of mouth, with several of our clients having been referred to us by the recommendations of previous customers.” Company: Robert Rowett Architectural Services Name: Robert Rowett Email:
[email protected] Web Address: www.rr-as.co.uk Address: 2B Old Amenity Building, Restormel Estate, Liddicoat Road, Lostwithiel, Cornwall, PL22 0HG Telephone: 01208 873323 Best Architectural & Planning Services Firm – Cornwall & Best Cornish Eco House Design: Trevarrick Road