Build Architecture Awards

Build Architecture Awards 2015 47 First Penthouse is an innovative rooftop developer who have created exciting new technology designed to revitalise existing roof spaces. We speak to Patrick Brightman who explains what drives the company to such success and what the future has in store. First Penthouse is a unique rooftop devel- opment company that turns underutilised or neglected roof spaces into valuable assets, with minimal disruption to existing occupiers. We have developed a unique system for designing the most advanced modular off-site construction there is, building all penthouses in our facility based in Sweden. Bespoke modules in any shape or form can be created off-site in factory controlled conditions and an entire penthouse can be installed on a roof in just one day. All projects we undertake are typically a joint venture partnership, ensuring that we can generate a significant capital sum, at no cost to the resident or freeholder. As a natural bi-product of the development, residents can benefit from a better-insulated roof, improve the common parts and upgrade the entrance hall. The property values are enhanced by up to 5% for all residents and there is typically a reduction to the long-term service charge costs for existing residents. The company was founded by Håkan and Annika Olsson, two highly qualified Swedish engineers with a background in developing ad- vanced and innovative construction techniques. Having built their own penthouse using tradi- tional construction methods, they encountered significant problems working with construction firms and soon realised that there must be a better way to develop your roof space. Growing from our Swedish heritage, we continue to encourage intelligent design that is linear, light, spacious and practical. As in any industry, finding the right partners and employees is crucial. We are fortunate to work with many talented and dedicated individuals whose energy and expertise are vital to the outcome of every project. These partnerships range from Architects to Structural Engineers, Building Surveyors to Property Advisers, all of which are very much part of the team and allow us to stay up to speed with a wide range of emerging trends. In this fast paced market and we need to stay one step ahead of our competitors. We have al- ways ensured that no other company has more knowledge of off-site rooftop development. Our designers have detailed knowledge of the construction process and techniques; with our unique design documents not only do they describe what to build, but also how to build. Best Rooftop Developers 2015 - UK Company: First Penthouse Name: Patrick Brightman Email: [email protected] Web Address: www.firstpenthouse.com Address: St James House 13 Kensington Square London W8 5HD Telephone: 020 7100 6990 The First Penthouse company ethos is Greener, Quicker, Smarter. The nature of the business model, using off-site construction allows us to deliver a high quality product in controlled factory environments. This effective level of workmanship ensures consistency at every stage of a development. As close to 100% of the penthouse is completed and tested in our facility before shipping to the rooftop site. One significant challenge we face working within the London market is planning per- mission. This can be a timely process and in some instances unpredictable, but over the last decade we have a successful track record of achieving permission in several central London locations. We are always on the look out for future projects and ways in which we can help landlords to unlock their rooftop potential. The coming months looks set to be innova- tive and exciting, with two Marylebone pent- house developments in the planning stages and future projects scheduled in Kensington and Chelsea. In order to sustain our success, the First Penthouse team will certainly grow as more projects will be undertaken. As current leaders in advanced off-site construction, we will use this opportunity to share our unique knowledge of this sector and further educate engineers, designers and architects in the specialist field of rooftop development.