Congratulations to our Project Managers
11.12.2020
As 2020 draws to a close, Churchill Hui Project Managers Rob, Sonia and Barney celebrate professional qualifications success.
2016 news
Churchill Hui Business Continuity Statement
14.05.2020
As the Coronavirus / COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact everyday life, we have implemented our own business continuity plan in line with government and Public Health England advice. The health, safety and well-being of our people and everyone we interact remains our priority.
Categories: Practice
Churchill Hui secures framework appointment with The Connected Partnership, a leading London-based consortium of RPs
04.05.2020
Churchill Hui is delighted to be appointed onto a new framework for The Connected Partnership, providing Employer’s Agent (EA) services. With a focus on delivering housing projects in the south-east for local authorities and housing associations, Churchill Hui is well positioned to join The Connected Partnership framework. Neil Manley, Managing Director at Churchill Hui, said: “We are looking forward to bringing our experience and knowledge gained from over 45 years of creating quality housing to The Connected Partnership. Together we can provide sustainable, affordable housing in Greater London that residents are proud to call home.”
The Connected Partnership is a leading consortium of Registered Providers including Octavia Housing, Origin Housing and Shepherds Bush Housing Group. It is a housing ‹strategic partner› with the Greater London Authority and delivers an affordable housing programme in north and west London.
Categories: Practice
Churchill Hui directors take part in one of the first prison parkruns
28.03.2019
The global phenomenon parkrun organises free, weekly, 5km timed runs in open spaces around the world. They are free, safe and accessible for anyone who wants to walk, jog, run or volunteer.
One of the aims of parkrun is to have an event in every community that wants one, and with this in mind, parkruns have been gradually launching in UK prisons. The thinking behind this is that the power of sport has been used, with fantastic results, to reduce reoffending.
By linking prisoners with a weekly event that also takes place on the outside world at the same time (Saturdays, 9am) upon release they hopefully find the impetus to participate in a local parkrun, integrate into the community (parkrun community and beyond) and avoid reoffending.
Categories: Practice
Our Movember Motivation – Part 3: Geoff
28.11.2018
Movember is a powerful charity event for so many reasons. It means even more to us at Churchill Hui as we have team members whose lives have been affected by the challenges Movember aims to tackle – that’s prostate cancer, testicular cancer, suicide and mental health.
For our “Movember Motivation” series, retired Architect Geoff Mules has courageously shared his personal reasons for participation. Although recently retired from Churchill Hui, Geoff was integral to the growth and direction of the firm for over 30 years and still provides consultancy and advice.
Categories: Practice
Our Movember Motivation – Part 2: Claire
21.11.2018
Movember is a powerful charity event for so many reasons. It means even more to us at Churchill Hui as we have team members whose lives have been affected by the challenges Movember aims to tackle – that’s prostate cancer, testicular cancer, suicide and mental health.
For our “Movember Motivation” series, Director Claire Crook has kindly shared her reasons for participation.
Categories: Practice
Our Movember Motivation – Part 1: Stuart
12.11.2018
Movember is a powerful charity event for so many reasons. It means even more to us at Churchill Hui as we have team members whose lives have been affected by the challenges Movember aims to tackle – that’s prostate cancer, testicular cancer, suicide and mental health.
Our Clerk of Works and Site Inspector Stuart Miles has kindly shared his story for our “Movember Motivation” series.
Categories: Practice
“10 things I look for when recruiting” – Kevin Crook
26.06.2018
Encountering numerous CVs and interviewees, Director Kevin Crook shares 10 things he looks for when hiring candidates for technical as well as administrative roles .
Categories: Practice
Open the door to good mental health in the workplace
11.05.2018
Are anxiety and depression taboo or is it best to talk? In light of Mental Health Awareness Week we share our recent experience of supporting employees’ mental health at Churchill Hui.
Categories: Practice
Why refurbishment matters
26.02.2018
Ian Manley is one of Churchill Hui’s most experienced Building Surveyors and Contract Administrators specialising in the refurbishment and major repairs of older housing stock and listed buildings. In this opinion piece, Ian outlines why he considers refurbishment of older properties to be an important and relevant consideration for housing providers today.
Categories: Practice
“10 things I’ve learned” – Claire Crook
25.01.2018
Director Claire Crook recently contributed to our regular “10 things” column. As more and more females are succeeding in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) professions, Claire chose to share 10 things she’s learned about being a woman in the construction industry today.
Categories: Practice
Deptford Foundry: Looking back to move forward
05.01.2018
Churchill Hui is the Employer’s Agent for Moat on an exciting London housing scheme, inspired by the heritage of its site.
Deptford Foundry in south east London is a 276-home development on the grounds of a former early 19th century metal foundry, which historically produced everything from propellers to manhole covers. The project is a celebration of creativity led by developer Anthology, and part of the wider regeneration of the area including commercial space that will be available specifically to local artists and artisans through Second Floor Studios and Arts.
Categories: Projects
Churchill Hui hosts property developers from Beijing
27.10.2017
Chinese property developers from Beijing Capital Land recently flew into London for a practical briefing on British standard construction and onsite management. Based in five major Chinese cities (Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Chongqing and Chengdu), Beijing Capital Land is looking to expand overseas, including in the UK.
Churchill Hui architects and project managers Geoff Mules, Alexandra Revell, Paul Tutton and Helen Yuan accompanied the Chinese developers, including women, to show them two London sites that we are currently project managing in Deptford and Bermondsey. Helen Yuan translated conversations between the teams around site management, safety, scope of work for different parties and how budgeting works.
At Deptford Foundry, they explored a regeneration development incorporating 40 affordable housing units for Anthology. The scheme in Bermondsey, Pages Walk, showcased 19 flats – a mix of intermediate rent and affordable rent for client Moat.
Categories: Practice
Distinction for project manager Alexandra Revell
06.10.2017
Churchill Hui is delighted to share the news that project manager Alexandra Revell (Allie) is now a qualified quantity surveyor, achieving an MSc from the University College of Estate Management with distinction. Studying part-time alongside her full-time role has been challenging but she worked diligently throughout the two-year course that was sponsored by Churchill Hui.
For her 10,000-word dissertation Allie chose to look at the future of historical places of worship by reviewing options for their restoration or conversion. With the UK finding itself suffering from a major housing crisis, churches could be a small step towards providing more homes either through conversion or demolition. Following her research, Allie has plans to volunteer with Historic England to expand their Heritage at Risk Programme which aims to record all the Grade II listed (or higher) buildings across the country.
Allie says “Churchill Hui has given me study leave throughout the last two years when I needed to revise or finish an essay, which has been useful and allowed me to keep on top of my studies without losing all of my free-time. The whole team has been very supportive and everyone has chipped in with essay ideas and moral support. Students on long-distances course can feel isolated so having supportive colleagues has been a great help.”
The Masters in Quantity Surveying will allow Allie to achieve RICS accreditation through the APC next spring, and continue to provide quality work for clients.
Congratulations Allie – we’re all very proud of you!
Look out for the Churchill Hui autumn newsletter with more on Allie’s dissertation findings.
Categories: Practice
Team Churchill Hui to join Anderson Group for annual charity cycle ride
06.05.2017
Construction company Anderson Group are organising their fourth 55 mile cycle on Sunday 10th June, in aid of the National Autistic Society. Churchill Hui are funding a dedicated team of four – Andrew Belsey, Kevin Crook, Andrew Moss and Geoff Mules – to join Anderson’s cyclists in completing the challenge. With just a few weeks to go, training is underway!
The route starts and finishes in Chelmsford and even includes a quiz along the way, culminating in a family-friendly party for cyclists and supporters. The combined team is called ‘Spoke & Mirrors’ and captain Andrew Nowosad, Anderson Group, says they hope to exceed the £45,000 raised last year by 170 cyclists.
This is the first year Churchill Hui have joined Anderson’s cycle challenge and are proud to don their padded shorts for the National Autistic Society. Colleague Rita Williams-Hall recently completed the Virgin Money London Marathon for the same charity, and made national headlines when she received an anonymous donation of £800.
Categories: Events
Churchill Hui announce management buyout and Geoff Mules’ retirement
03.04.2017
From 1 April, a restructure at Churchill Hui will see the existing senior management team becoming Directors whilst Geoff Mules retires after 30 years’ service. Director Neil Manley will become the MD. Claire Crook, Andrew Belsey, Ian Manley and Kevin Crook will acquire Geoff’s share of the business.
The team of Directors will continue to work from their London and Kent offices managing key business areas of architecture, project management and building surveying.
All enquiries should be directed to Claire Crook claire.crook@churchill-hui.com
Geoff Mules BSc (Hons) BArch (Dist) MSc RIBA MCMI MAPM
Throughout his successful architectural career, Geoff Mules built up over 40 years’ experience in the development and construction industry. He cut his architectural teeth as a graduate in 1973 with Holder and Matheus, leaving his hometown in Wales for the bright city lights of London. He worked in the UK and overseas for Asda, the Co-op, health authorities and managed hundreds of private and affordable housing projects.
He was elected as a member of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and became a Registered Architect in 1977. He was an early member of the Association for Project Management and was responsible in part for setting the entry qualifications. During his career he also undertook the role of external student visitor for the Welsh School of Architecture and was elected as a Member of the French Order of Architects.
In the 1980s Geoff travelled to Nigeria under Godwin and Hopwood who established the Nigerian Institute of Architects. He designed university buildings in Maiduguri and Kaduna before moving to the Middle East to create hospitals and housing in Saudi Arabia.
Geoff returned to London in the late 1980s to start a family with wife Alison where he became a senior lecturer and course director for London Southbank University’s MSc degree in Property Development (Project Management).
Upon joining Churchill Hui he opened an office in France, managing a waste transfer and housing projects for several years. He initiated one of the first ‘design and build’ services and remained at the firm until 2017. As a Partner, he took responsibility for strategic management, new business development, employee training, mentoring and external training seminars.
Although retiring from his full time position at Churchill Hui, Geoff plans to continue working as a consultant architect, mentor and tutor – perhaps focussing on his keen interest in historic buildings and churches. He’ll be dedicating more time to extra-curricular interests including rugby, travelling, fine wine and cycling, plus a family trip down under in Sydney.
Geoff says he feels now is the right time for a new generation of architects, project managers and surveyors to take Churchill Hui onwards and upwards. His colleagues wish him well and thank him for his outstanding service to the company.
Categories: Practice
26.2 miles for The National Autistic Society
30.03.2017
Churchill Hui’s Rita Williams-Hall is running the 2017 Virgin Money London Marathon this April for charity. With around a month to go, her training is in full swing, donations are building and she already has three half-marathons under her running belt. Rita deferred her marathon place for 2016 due to injury but is back on track to arrive at the start line (and the finish line!) this year on Sunday 23rd April. Her chosen charity is the National Autistic Society, a cause close to her heart. Donations will help raise awareness and fund research to enable people with autism to thrive in a world that seems strange.
If you’d like to sponsor Rita to run 26.2 miles around the capital – “one of the biggest challenges I’ve ever undertaken, physically and mentally!” – please follow the link below to her secure fundraising page.
We wish Rita all the best and will be looking out for her on the big day!
The Virgin Money London Marathon is the largest annual fundraising event on the planet. Runners have raised over £770 million for good causes since the race began in 1981.
Categories: Events
Churchill Hui use pedal power to ‘chainge’ the lives of disadvantaged girls in South Asia
19.11.2016
On a chilly November day, Churchill Hui and colleagues donned their cycling shorts to tackle eight hours’ peddling for charity at the Olympic Park Velodrome for the inaugural Chainge16 event.
The target, besides claiming the Yellow Jersey, was to raise £3,000 for the British Asian Trust’s appeal ‘Give a Girl a Future’, transforming the lives of 100 disadvantaged young women in South Asia by improving access to education, jobs and equal rights to turn their lives around – for good.
During the challenge on static bikes, the teams endured hill climbs, sprints, long distance and slick rider changeovers. They also enjoyed a once-in-a-lifetime freewheel on the Velodrome itself, following in the tracks of Olympic legends Sir Bradley Wiggins and Victoria Pendleton. With participants from age 10–60+, they used pedal power to whiz up refreshing smoothies and race Scalextric!
After eight hours in the saddle, the two teams from Churchill Hui (or should that be Hoy?), Anderson Construction, Viridian, Clarion, Bugler, Countryside, Jenner Contractors and AHM collectively generated an amazing £4,170 for the British Asian Trust – with not a puncture in sight.
HRH The Prince of Wales founded The British Asian Trust in 2007 to tackle the widespread poverty and hardship that he saw in South Asia. The charity is committed to bringing long-term, sustainable change to millions of people by working with local partners across the region.
Categories: Events
Station Road development provides affordable homes in Godalming
07.11.2016
Churchill Hui’s award-winning scheme of 14 high quality flats, maisonettes and houses with private and communal gardens has been well received by all stakeholders.
Previously a council-owned car park, the site sits deep in the heart of Godalming’s historic town centre conservation area, adjacent to the station and against a landmark church spire backdrop. The finished scheme compliments the town’s character and provides affordable housing close to transports link and amenities.
Categories: Projects
Affordable Surrey housing development designed and project managed by Churchill Hui wins Civic Design Award
15.09.2016
The scheme, built by W. Stirland Ltd., offers 14 attractive homes in the heart of Godalming’s historic town centre and impressed The Godalming Trust with its mix of attractive styles that complement the local area.
Churchill Hui were appointed as Architects after a winning pitch to Waverley Borough Council and Thames Valley Housing Association. The flats are designed to resemble a mill and classical grand house, giving a nod to existing local style, and the roof profiles make it possible to maintain views of the landmark church spire. A successful public consultation preceded a smooth planning approval.
The homes appeal to a range of incomes including local singles, couples and families who can benefit from affordable housing close to transports link and town amenities.
One of the new tenants is Dan Eley who carried the Olympic Torch for Waverley and set up the Dan Eley Foundation in 2012. Dan has been paralysed from the waist down since a life-changing accident so Churchill Hui specially developed a ground floor flat with step-free access, a wet room and wider doorways.
Gareth Munro, member of The Godalming Trust executive committee and chairman of the Civic Design Awards sub-committee, said: “We think the Station Road development is a flagship of how a central historic site in a town should be dealt with. It has been so well designed, incorporating a variety of styles. We spent months looking at these new developments and it was Station Road that was the stand-out winner.”
Waldegrave Road development successfully handed over
23.05.2016
Churchill Hui have successfully handed over a development of 10 affordable rent flats in a desirable location near Teddington, Greater London.
The primary objective was the reintegration of a previously industrial site into a predominantly residential area. As Employer’s Agent, Churchill Hui carried out weekly site investigations to ensure that the construction of the units was executed to a high standard, led the snagging/de-snagging and liaised with all parties to ensure an optimum investment for their client, Paragon Community Housing Ltd.
The residents benefit from landscaped communal green spaces, attention to privacy and an underground car park.
Categories: Projects
Churchill Hui get in gear for the Stroke Association London Bridges Bike Ride
19.05.2014
For the third year running (er…make that pedalling), a team of Churchill Hui stalwarts took to the saddle and entered the Stroke Association London Bridges Bike Ride.
Now in its 21st year, this annual event raises much needed funds to support stroke survivors. Starting in Southwark Park and finishing in Hurst Park, the route takes in 16 bridges over the Thames and covers 33 miles. That’s from Tower Bridge to Hampton Court Bridge.
Needless to say, the team was fresh, energetic and enthusiastic at the start. But having battled the mileage and the elements, this was not quite the case at the finish! Fortunately, that photograph seems to have gone missing!
But finish they did, raising a substantial amount of money to help support the Stroke Association, which is the leading UK charity dealing with both prevention and the aftermath of stroke.
If you would like to add to our contribution you still can, without even putting on your Lycra. Just send us your donation and we will happily pass it on to the Stroke Association.
Thank you.
Categories: Practice
Merry Christmas from Churchill Hui
16.12.2013
Churchill Hui wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year.
Categories: Practice
Penns Yard, Pembury
Affordable Housing scheme in Greenbelt Planning appeal win
02.12.2013
Churchill Hui have secured a Planning appeal win for a scheme of 27 affordable rent units in the Kent countryside. The brief has always been to address a local housing need, on land identified by the Local Authority as being appropriate for development, for the provision of affordable housing.
The scheme took a long three years of design development prior to being submitted for Planning submission, and another year to finally secure a Planning approval via the Appeal route. The design adopts the typical Kent vernacular, and is connected to the town off the existing Penns Yard development.
The provision of affordable housing was never an issue, but recent changes in National Policy, to allow all people the right to home ownership, meant that these houses which would normally be classed as ‘rural exception housing’could not meet the Local Policy of maintaining these homes in perpetuity for local people requiring affordable housing.
The site’s location in affluent Kent meant that the Inspector recognised that although there was a conflict in policies, the likelihood of the houses being sold off was minimal, as also demonstrated by the Viability statement submitted as part of the application.
Although the development site is in the Greenbelt, all of the potentially available sites identified by the Local Authority, within their Strategic housing land availability assessment (SHLAA) in, and surrounding Pembury are. This particular site was the smallest of those identified by the Local Authority, therefore it would cause the least harm to the greenbelt. As the site has a direct link to the High Street, and its local services, this further reinforces the site’s suitability for development.
Churchill Hui have assisted our client, Town and Country Housing to fulfil their commitment to delivering high quality, affordable housing within Kent.
Categories: Projects
Top Accolade for Churchill Hui staff member
15.11.2013
Churchill Hui’s commitment to encouraging their staff to fulfil their Continued Professional Development is taken seriously.
So seriously in fact, that our Practice Manager Claire Crook rose to the challenge, and enrolled herself in the MSc Corporate Governance course at LSBU last year. Part of the course criteria involved a rather lengthy dissertation. Claire chose to explore ‘Gender Diversity in Housing Association Boards: Does the glass ceiling exist and if so have women broken through it?’. This is a relevant topic not only in the corporate world, but also in the realm of many of our clients, namely Registered Providers (Housing Associations).
Claire’s dedication, and sacrifices over the last year paid off, as not only did she graduate with a distinction but was also awarded the ICSA Best Student 2012/2013 award.
It will be a hard act to follow for other members of Churchill Hui – well done Claire for setting such an outstanding example!
Categories: Practice
Churchill Hui work to fund Marie Curie Nursing time
15.11.2013
Churchill Hui have contributed approximately £7,500 to Marie Curie over the last couple of years enabling their nurses to give free hands on care to people with all terminal illnesses in their own homes. The sad fact is that for every one person they can help, there are four who aren’t getting the care they desperately need.
Churchill Hui’s support has meant that they have covered a nurse’s nine hour shift, everyday, for a total of almost six weeks. Something to be very proud of.
Churchill Hui look forward to continuing to support Marie Curie Cancer Care in 2014.
Categories: Practice
Framework success
15.11.2013
Churchill Hui are proud to announce several Framework successes during 2013, Orbit South (EA), Viridian (EA and Architect, Chelmer Housing Partnerships (EA) and most recently Moat Homes Ltd (EA). We look forward to working with all our clients during and beyond the framework duration.
Categories: Practice
Six cycle to Spain (with a bit of luck)
21.08.2013
If you wonder why life at 5 Old Lodge Place is a bit quieter than normal – then it’s because Geoff Mules has taken to the highways and byways – to cycle from West London to Spain for the next four weeks. From far and wide (including New Zealand) the group of six friends hatched the plot back earlier in the year. ‘I decided to do it whilst I still can’ declared Geoff.
Known as the ‘Great Grape Ride’, they plan to take plenty of stops – for refreshment – and what looks like much-needed rest (see photos!)
The middle aged (plus!) group hope also to raise money for Prostate Cancer (with one member of the group having a vested interest) to make their trip extra worthwhile. So if you would like to donate just follow the link below:
everydayhero.co.nz/great_grape_ride →
Follow the team’s progress on their blog →
Categories: Events
Dalby Square receives Top 50 Affordable Housing Development Award
10.05.2013
Churchill Hui are pleased to announce the latest award for this 20 unit scheme in Margate.
Owned by Town and Country Housing Group and constructed by Croudace Partnerships Ltd., Churchill Hui were appointed as Architects from feasibility to completion and also acted as Employer’s Agent from our Canterbury office for TCHG.
The scheme has been featured on the BBC ‘Empty Homes’ series and as a case study on the No Use Empty website. It has also won Margate Civic Society’s Pride of Margate Award as well as being one of Inside Housing magazine’s Top 50 UK Affordable Housing Developments of 2013.
We are proud to have been part of the team in bringing this neglected previous hotel back to life and providing accommodation for 20 new Margate residents.
Inside Housing Top 50 UK Affordable Housing Developments of 2013 →
Town and Country Housing Group →
Croudace Partnerships Ltd. →
Categories: Projects
On Yer Bike!
10.05.2013
Shares in Lycra and gel saddles would seem to be a good buy at the moment judging by the activity at Churchill Hui at the moment.
Paul, Kevin, Jon and Niall undertake the London Bridges Bike Ride on Sunday 12th May in aid of the Stroke Association, whilst Niall and Kevin are veterans of this particular ride they are hoping that the experience cyclist Paul, who is treating this as a training ride for London to Brighton, will let them slip stream behind him. So if you are in and around the Thames on Sunday look out for the Churchill Hui branded shirts as they whizz (hopefully) past you.
Not content with this another team consisting of Ian, Andrew, Geoff, Sheryll from Raven Housing Trust and Amarbir from Collier Contracts will be cycling the London to Brighton on 16th June 2013 in aid of the British Heart Foundation.
Not content with this Geoff starts an epic 4 week ride from London to Valencia in August – we are reliably told he will be making updates on his blog and a link will be available on our website to follow his progress.
Rumours abound about other staff members taking on 10k runs, triathlons and Tough Mudder courses. Watch this space…
Categories: Events
Marie Curie Cancer Care six-a-side touch rugby
10.05.2013
Have you heard the one about the Welshman, the Irishman and the Englishman – not to mention the South African? It’s no joke – from across the land and the Commonwealth – the Churchillians bring a truly diverse team with ladies (we’ve promised the bride-to-be that her bruises will have faded by the wedding) and an over 50 – but ex army and Welsh – squaddie.
Being Twickenham based, we’re looking forward to playing rather than just providing the parking. We are proud to be raising funds for Marie Curie Cancer Care. Our name shall therefore be our banner – and in true Churchill (no relation) tradition – we shall not flag or fail, we shall go onto the end. This then will be our finest hour.
Categories: Events
Movember 2012
01.11.2012
Throughout Movember, the Churchill Hui ‘Fancy Ticklers’ will be growing moustaches to raise funds and awareness for men’s health charities.
Categories: Events
Three new housing sites for Wealden District Council
11.10.2012
We are pleased to announce the planning approval for three housing sites for our client, Wealden District Council. This will be the first affordable housing provided directly by the council for over 25 years and forms the first part of their New House Building Programme.
This success follows the original winning design competition by Churchill Hui back in November 2011 and is the first stage of a growing partnership for future development. Collectively these housing schemes generate 64 No new dwellings on key sites in Willingdon, Crowborough and Forest Row.
Willingdon
This comprises 16 No dwellings of maisonettes, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom houses, designed to fit the local context and character of the area.
Crowborough
A scheme of 20 No dwellings, again of maisonettes and houses, that completes an existing cul-da-sac but with the addition of parking courts, landscaping and a small native meadow.
Forest Row
An attractive courtyard layout of 28 No dwellings, inclusive of 1 and 2 bedroom flats, 2 and 3 bedroom houses and a bungalow, based upon a modern interpretation of the local architectural distinctiveness of this beautiful town.
Below is a recent statement by the client:
‘It’s been a real pleasure working with you guys, it is rare to find people producing absolute spot on quality from day one, and we are very grateful for everything you (the team) have put have into the schemes.’
Forest Row
Categories: Projects
Team Churchill Hui salute Team GB
05.10.2012
So the summer of 2012 was one of glorious British sporting achievement (if not glorious weather!). We all marvelled as our magnificent Olympians and Para-Olympians reached ever-greater heights, taking Team GB ever-higher up the medals table. It was an outstanding achievement that made us all feel better about ourselves and proud to be British. Which is all very un-British, don’t you know.
But what about the legacy? I hear you say. It was time for Team Churchill Hui to get involved!
Our one event would be the London 2012 victory parade. The logistics would be challenging. Could we all get out of bed in time? Could we all assemble in the right place to catch the train to London? Would we have the necessary endurance fitness to stand for hours on the pavement waving our flags? And in the face of such pressure, just how long could we hold those happy smiles? Of course we could and we would!
But not for us the lure of lucrative sponsorship deals from fizzy drink and hamburger brands, not to mention those pesky bankers (so we won’t). No, this was going to be a strictly self-sponsored event. Except perhaps for our Oyster cards.
And did we have a good time? Of course we did. And how do we know? Because a member of the City of London constabulary kindly captured the occasion for us on film. Well pixels actually. Aren’t our police-persons wonderful!
And are we glad the Olympics only come around every four years? Of course we are.
Categories: Practice
Churchill Hui shortlisted for the 2012 Housing Design Awards
02.04.2012
Churchill Hui are delighted to have been shortlisted for the 2012 Housing Design Awards. Our scheme at Station Road, Godalming, on behalf of Waverley Borough Council, was nominated under the Project Category.
We look forward to the announcement of the prize winners on 20th June.
Housing Design Awards → (external link)
Categories: Practice
Churchill Hui architect features on BBC Britain’s Empty Homes programme
26.01.2012
Tanja Napoli, the lead designer for Dalby Square, Margate was interviewed on site with regard to her design for an ongoing scheme for TCHG and Thanet District Council as part of the BBC Britain’s Empty Homes programme and the work that Thanet District Council’s Empty Homes Officer, Mike Thompson, carries out.
Tanja’s design incorporates the existing façade of the previous hotel on site. The project will see the completion of 8 flats and 12 town houses circa October 2012.
Categories: Practice
Churchill Hui and Radian work with community
to complete Old Windsor scheme
13.06.2011
Radian has worked together with the local community to overcome initial reluctance in replacing a sheltered housing scheme in Old Windsor, with a mixed tenure of apartments and town houses, some of which will only be made available to the over 55s.
The community’s initial reservation was mainly due to the severely restricted parking which was already causing problems in Lyndwood Drive, even before any work had occurred.
However, it became apparent during a long public consultation process with residents, and parish and borough councillors, that some of the unwillingness to embrace the development was due to the level of local history surrounding this site.
Lyndwood Drive is a cul-de-sac that, many years ago, used to lead to Lyndwood House. The grand house, which sat on a substantial plot of land either side of the drive, was home to the Randall fami ly who lived there for numerous generations and employed many of the local community. One current Lyndwood Drive resident, Dave Knight’s grandfather was the Randall family chauffeur and his grandmother also worked for them at Lyndwood House decades ago.
Aware of this local connection, Radian worked in partnership with the residents and suppliers to overcome a challenging period and generate a positive outcome for to the local area.
To alleviate residents’ concerns, Radian worked with the local planning authority to widen the width of the Lyndwood Drive and was also happy to make a financial contribution towards the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead’s consultation with the local residents regarding a parking permit scheme.
Radian organised an Open Day at the earliest opportunity to allow the local residents, who had tolerated the building site on their small cul-de-sac for a number of months, to view the finished houses and apartments befor e new residents move in.
Peter Coleman, Radian combined board member, said: "From the outset everyone at Radian were committed to working with the Old Windsor community. It has taken a long time to deliver, needed many hours of discussion and some compromises on both sides but that has ensured the scheme is one that both Radian, and the community can be proud of."
The architects, Churchill Hui, have designed a development boasting both one and two bed apartments, as well as three bed town houses. The apartments will provide comfortable homes for over 55 year olds, whilst the town houses offer much needed family homes.
It is anticipated that some of the flats will be occupied by older people who are currently under-occupying larges houses in the area, therefore freeing up more homes for local families.
In order to minimise the effect on local parking and maximise outdoor space, each of the houses has two parking spaces (two of which are i ntegral garages) and all benefit from private back gardens.
The ground floor apartments have a patio area and a further four have balconies.
John Lee, assistant clerk at Old Windsor Parish Council, said: "This development had all the potential to be a complete nightmare for the existing residents.
"The combination of a very good builder, great communication with the housing authority and the goodwill of existing residents meant that this was completed without any tears.
"Radian kept everyone up to date on developments and invited the existing residents input on things so we always felt part of the team."
Categories: Projects
Thames Bridges Bike Ride
33 miles, 14 bridges and one big challenge
21.04.2011
An intrepid team from Churchill Hui (Neil, Claire, Lee, Niall, Kevin, Geoff, Ian, Andrew M and Sam plus a couple of friends) have chosen to cycle the London Bridges Bike Ride on 22nd May 2011, from Southwark Park to Molesey Park near Hampton Court in aid of The Stroke Association.
Training is going well (one individual who shall remain nameless has spent vast quantities in Halfords hoping to improve the comfort of the ride), although there has been a distinct lack of pedalling coming from any of the team members to date – apparently Twickenham to Kent is not doable (some of us think that Southwark to Molesey is probably a struggle).
Why are we letting you know? Well in spite of the entertainment value for anyone who wishes to line the route (I promise you, some of these legs have not seen any pedalling action for a long time and some riders just have a habit of falling off on a regular basis – the excuse was the wrong type of tyres) we are attempting to raise money for a very worthwhile cause.
We would be very grateful if you would consider sponsoring us at the below link. We appreciate that in the current economic climate there are many demands on your hard earned money, however if you are able to donate anything, however small, it would be gratefully received by the team on behalf of The Stroke Association and will improve their motivation to actually complete the ride.
Please sponsor us at Just Giving → (external link)
Categories: Events
St Mungo’s, 115 Pound Lane, Willesden
A centre for hope and transition
01.10.2010
Churchill Hui’s longstanding relationship with St Mungo’s continues with the opening of this new centre for the homeless in Brent.
As concept and planning architects our vision was to create a place of hope and transition, without the institutional and isolating feel of some hostels. Led by Architect Alex Murray, we wanted to create a relaxed, contemporary and welcoming atmosphere, with ‘a heart’ at its centre.
The design concept reflects a new approach to hostel design and has an emphasis on natural materials. These are complemented by features such as a fig tree at the centre of the main building, sedum grass sown on several roofs, and ‘living walls’ of climbing plants.
View case study →
View article at Building Design Online → (external link)
Categories: Projects
Ellington School, Ramsgate, Kent
Redevelopment, regeneration, affordable flats and houses.
01.10.2010
Orbit Homes is redeveloping this disused school building and site to generate much needed affordable housing. On completion the development will comprise 28 new homes, made up of 16 one- and two-bedroom flats and 12 four-bedroom houses. It will also house a GP surgery onsite.
This is very much a regeneration scheme in that it has been carefully planned and designed to transform the site, while also integrating with the existing facilities and infrastructure. The emphasis will be on harmonising with the local environment, including the adjacent Grade II listed building. Features of the original Victorian structure will be retained and existing TPO trees will be protected.
Churchill Hui has been commissioned to provide various roles. These include architect, project management and CDM coordinator. This £4.1m Code 4 project is scheduled for completion by February 2011.
Categories: Projects
Rolex Fastnet 2009
09.08.2009
Neil Manley recently joined the crew of the Hydrocarbon to complete the Rolex Fastnet 2009. Read on to see how they fared.
Categories: Events
Consultant Frameworks success
20.05.2009
We are delighted to announce that we have been successful in our tenders for both the Moat Housing Association Ltd. and Asra Greater London Housing Association Ltd. Consultant Frameworks for Employer’s Agent Services.
We look forward to a long and successful relationship with both.
Categories: Practice
A new identity keeps Churchill Hui at the forefront of the social housing sector
06.02.2009
Churchill Hui is celebrating 35 years of leadership in the social and affordable housing sector. Over the years our business has grown and diversified into the full design and management consultancy service we offer today.
To better reflect the size, scope and resources of our practice and its position in the marketplace, we have introduced a new look and identity. This was unveiled at a special launch party at the London Transport Museum in central London.
The London-based consultancy A2 Design was commissioned to develop the new identity following a review of various design specialists. They were selected for their strategic approach, creativity and understanding of our business and needs.
The new identity features a more contemporary and distinctive logo. The identity and illustrations represent our belief in working together in partnership with our clients and contractors.
These elements combine to differentiate Churchill Hui from our competitors in terms of look and approach, while also reinforcing the specialist knowledge and expertise that is the hallmark of our business. The new look is being introduced across all areas of the practice.
Categories: Practice
High Road Tottenham completed
20.12.2008
The development comprised the design and construction of 40 flats, 4 houses and 7 commercial units. 20 flats were for shared ownership and the remaining dwellings for affordable rent.
Categories: Projects
Churchill Hui moves into the top 100
03.11.2008
Churchill Hui is delighted to announce its arrival in Building Magazine’s Top 100 Fastest Growing Companies in the UK, as featured in their 2008 survey. We are proud of this recognition and of our continuing growth and success as design and management consultants to the social housing sector.
This is fitting testimony to the professionalism, dedication and hard work of each and every one of our employees. But we would like to thank all of our clients too, both past and present, for their considerable contribution to our success. We look forward to building on our existing relationships and forging new ones as we continue to grow.
View full results from Building Magazine’s 2008 survey → (external link)
Categories: Practice
Fenland District Council Building Design Awards
03.06.2008
The Norwood Road scheme in March, dubbed ‘Smartlife’, was recognised and awarded in two categories at the recent Fenland District Council Building Design Awards. The categories were:
1. The Sustainability Award - Scheme demonstrating a high standard of energy conservation or sustainable construction.
2. Home Award - New build, 15 dwellings and over.
View case study →
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