Friday 29 January 2010

Renewal of Entrepreneurial Exchange Membership

Kenneth is proud to announce that he has again renewed his Membership at the Entrepreneurial Exchange.

The Entrepreneurial Exchange

'For entrepreneurs, by entrepreneurs'

The Entrepreneurial Exchange is Scotland’s leading organisation for ambitious growth oriented entrepreneurs. Through its comprehensive programme of events The Exchange helps inform, motivate, educate, inspire and support entrepreneurs to build their businesses bigger, faster.
Established in 1994 with 50 founder members, The Exchange now has some 450 members heading-up companies employing more than 270,000 people and with a collective turnover of over £20 billion.

Wednesday 27 January 2010

Work Commences on Uddingston Library Refurbishment


Work has commenced on the refurbishment and rennovation of the Catgory C Listed former Uddingston Library, Main Street, South Lanarkshire.

Block Architects have been working with Developers, DSR Limited for a year to secure listed planning consent and building warrant for the conversion of the building into a flatted development.

Repair works have now started on the outside of the building for both the repairs to roof, external stonework, and injection dpc at low level all of which will ensure that when finished the exterior will look crisp and fresh and hopefully close to 'good as new'.

Recently the Ground Floor, of the 3 storey development has been secure by local dentist Mr Neil Simpson, effectionately known as The Tooth Doctor. Block Architects are assisting him with the proposed relocation of his Dental Practice into the Ground Floor. This is currently being negotiated with South Lanarkshire Council and Detailed Planning Approval is awaited imminently.

Anyone who is interested in the purchase of these flats in Uddingston should contact DSR Developments through Block Architects. Click here to Contact us or Tel 01698 422358.

Thursday 21 January 2010

Planning Permission for 4 plots at Dipool Farm, by Carnwath

Block Architects are pleased to announce that we have this week achieved detailed planning consent for our Client. The approval for 4 house plots in a remote rural location just outside Carnwath has been testing for all involved.

Specialist planning advice has been sought from Mr Neil Gainford, who lead the Team with the negotiations with both Scottish Executive and SLC Planning Department.

At block architects we pride ourselves in being able to take what seems to be the impossible and being able to turn that into a realistic proposal. This often involves the engagement of other professional disciplines, however this has the undoubted benefit of being able to deliver as a team.

The Client is now able to offer the site as a whole or as individual plots for for sale. Interested parties can contact him through www.blockarchitects.co.uk or call us on 01698 422358








Monday 18 January 2010

Confidence Is Up!

It would appear that as we hit 2010 with the close prospect of the UK coming out of recession, if we have not already done so, that many potential clients are looking at pushing the button with their projects.

Since re-opening after the holiday shut down block architects has seen a flurry of enquiries most of which look extremely promising.

Here's to prosperity in 2010

Tuesday 12 January 2010

CPD - IRT Surveys

The Team have just completed another CPD today by IRT Surveys Mr Martin Fitzpatrick gave a 1 hour seminar looking at the uses of thermal surveys in order to point out building fabric defects. This covered topics including the science behind infrared light, technological advancements and typical building defects e.g. water penetration and heat loss in building envelopes.

This was a very useful seminar for the team.

Tuesday 5 January 2010

A Specialist Guide to Self Build…

A Specialist Guide to Self Build…

I am taking the initiative to do this following the advice of my new fried Lyndon Forshaw (ukpropertyexpert.com) and hope that in the next 3-6mths I can compile a downloadable Self Build Help Guide. In the meantime, as I write the basics I am happy to post the guidance hot of the press, so to speak. Therafter I will tweak and edit until I am happy to formally issue this as a Guide


So you are thinking of starting a Self Build Project and perhaps this is your first? Well let me tell you that you are about to embark on one of the most exhilarating experiences of your life! Forget bungee or diving out of an aeroplane you are about to have just as much fun with your feet firmly on the ground.

I believe that there is no better way to get what you want from life than to start with your own home, not house. If you are after a house then you are a Developer and whilst there is nothing wrong with this but for the fact that passion about money will be your driver as opposed to passion for living in an environment created by you for you and your family.

Now let me be absolutely honest; I have yet to do my Own Self Build, however I have assisted many Clients with many small projects many of which have been self build properties.

Throughout this sequential Report I will offer you my experience and insight into the various stages of the process all of which will ensure that you Obtain and Deliver Your Vision.

Step 1 – Assessing the Site.
Step 2 – Choosing of Designing the House for the Site
Step 3 – Planning & Building Warrant
Step 4 – Production Information
Step 5 – Establishing the Cost
Step 6 - Getting Started on Site
Step 7 – Managing the Construction Process
Step 8 – Moving In

Watch out for Step 1 – Assessing the Site - Coming Soon.

Here's 4 Reasons Why Our Clients Keep Coming Back.

Communication is key…
At block architects we understand that construction projects can be testing for everyone involved. Our tried and tested service recognises that good communications between the whole design team and the client ensures the realisation of the vision. We operate on a full communication policy and will call, email or write a letter in order to keep everyone informed. Contact us now if your professionals are not keeping you informed.

Complete design and delivery ...
Not only can we design your project and negotiate with Local Authorities on your behalf, we can also assist you and your Contractor in the delivery of the project. We can take control and assist in the organisation of your Contractor to ensure that your requirements on costs and programme dates are delivered. We can provide full site inspection and sign off facilities on projects over £100,000 construction cost. If you want us to assist in delivering your project call now for a no obligation chat.

Our professional networking base…

After several years of working within Scotland’s Central Belt we have established good working relationships with professionals in various disciplines who are all at the top of their game. This network is available at your fingertips.

Case Studies: Block Clients Tell All …
Please contact us and tell us a little more about your project and we will direct you to the appropriate client who will give you a positive reflection of our services and how we delivered their project taking all of their worries away..

CIPS: UK construction declines for 22nd month running | News | Construction News

CIPS: UK construction declines for 22nd month running News Construction News

As I attach this link I do so with similar prospect that surely we must see an improvement in 2010. Infact this week already (today) we have secured 3 appointments to go see homeowners with reference to the extension of their properties. Fantastic if we get them all.

Happy New Year 2010

On behalf of everyone here at block architects we would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year and Prosperity for 2010.