Construction industry comes out of recession

Interesting Article confirming that the Construction Industry is now out of recession however the sectors which have taken it out of recession are of no use to us Architects. Maintenance Contracts for Council Housing Stocks are unlikley to generate fees for privately owned Architectural Practices.

We need the private residential and commercial markets to increase.

But hey I am not complaining. This is all definitely good news...


Construction industry comes out of recession News Construction News

Block Architects in the News..

The BBC have decided to report on our joing project between JHAG Ltd and Dobbies Garden Centre in East Kilbride. For more information follow the existing link.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/glasgow_and_west/8405567.stm

Kenneth's Reading List

At block architects I always advise the Team that it is important to grow personally and professionally. I am a great one for continued learning not only about Architecture but also about Business and Entrepreneurship. I've started reading 'The One Minute Entrepreneur' by Ken Blanchard, Don Hutson and Ethan Willis.

I wanted to share some of the 'One Minute Insights' from the first Chapter. They are very interesting:-

• Associate with people you admire and can learn from.
• keep a notebook of the wisdom you read, hear, and learn, and distill that learning into One Minute Insights.
• A good life is built on strong, solid values such as integrity, love, honesty, and purposeful work.
• You never nead to cheat to win.
• What is right is more important than who is right.

This is a good book!

Pushing our Business Forward with ActionCOACH

Just thought I would write a quick blog regarding our ongoing business coaching with ActionCOACH.

On Friday 4th Dec I spend a fantastic day at Celtic FC where myself and other business owners enjoyed the hospitality of ActionCOACH at our MAD 90 Day Coaching Seminar.

For those of you who don't know what this is MAD (Massive Action Day) is a full day workshop where we work through the various areas of business development in order to set our Goals for the Next 90 Days.

Block Architects – 90 Day Plan
Dec 2009 – March 2010

These are the Key Goals for the next 90 days:-

Financial Goal – Hit targets and achieve growth in Turnover.

People Goal – Find 30 minutes every Friday to round of the week and have some wiffle time.

Personal Goal – Work hard on ‘myself’

These are the General Goals for the next 90 days:-

Re-examine Licensed Model Business
Review existing and new Strategic Alliances
Track sources of Lead Generation
Monitor and Improve Lead Conversion rate
Review the Company Procedures Manual
Review long term Goals both Personal and Business
Write and Publish ‘How to Guides’
Prepare ‘How to Podcast Guides’
Implement off site back up

Self Build Scotland - Here's our new business!

Between now and Christmas I will be spending a bit of time working on the new webpage www.selfbuilderpro.com

This is our new venture which we will officially launch in January. The new business aims to provide a one stop shop for the self build novice or enthusiast who is looking for as little or as much assistance with the process as necessary.

I will be loading 10 of so house plans onto the site to get us started and that will hopefully get the web page almost complete.

Any feedback good or not so good is appreciated.

The RIBA/RIAS Must Take Building Control To Task

Are we the only Architects who feel that the Scottish Building Control Regulations are just too onerous? We have just been asked to provide a 1:5 detail of an intumescent collar in a garage roof!

We are constantly finding that the Building Control Regulations are more and more demanding with reference to the information that they can ask for. We have no issue whatsoever with issuing a full set of Construction Drawings to Building Control but this is outwith the 'Plan of Work'. Surely the RIBA and RIAS should remind the SBSA that Architects have a Stages of Work Plan (RIAS/RIBA Stages A-K). Our whole industry apparently conforms to this but not Planning & Building Control.

We think it is about high time that the RIBA/RIAS get more involved when the SBSA is writing policy or frankly the RIBA/RIAS may soon realise that it is Planning and Building Control who are calling the shots. It certainly seems close to this right now!

Christmas Is Coming and Fast But What About Your Drawings?

Just another quick and polite reminder to let you all know that if you want to get started a small house extension or attic conversion build in the Spring then time is running out BUT if you get your drawings lodged with the Council before Christmas then this is your best chance. For more information and help Telephone 01698 422 358 or email kmartin@blockarchitects.co.uk

Managing Your Client's Expectations.

You know I am a great believer in Client Service and Customer Satisfaction. Infact satisfaction is a poor word. I believe that Clients when they have received our service should be Delighted with the service that they have received from us. Now delivering any project is a complex process and quite often the 'stages' get out of sync from the normal procedural process and on this basis it's up to us to try and keep all the balls juggling in the air and then landing in the correct order. It's quite a skill which often goes unnoticed by the Client however at the end of the day that's why the Client approaches us in the first instance.

In order to achieve clarity it is important to manage the Client's expectations from the start and that often means 'positioning them'. This basically means that after you have had an initial meeting with block architects and we have listened to your requirements, that we then have to explain any challenges that we foresee with the project whether that be a planning issue, building warrant issue or even cost issue. This is positioning. Putting you the Client in a place where you hopefully understand the delivery process, timescales and likely costs. However you need to remember that a project can involve many people and organisations some of which don't always meet in the middle and on this basis it can quite often be the case that projects suffer at some level, hopefully minor.

Now what happens when it goes wrong? I believe that we are great communicators and mostly we do get the necessary information to the Clients that they require but sometimes the Client doesn't listen/understand properly what is being suggested to them or sometimes they don't quite understand the jargon associated with our industry. It's important that on these occasions that You the Client ask the 'silly' question. It benefits everyone if this is the case.

You will see from our web page a selection of the many Testimonials that we receive from our Clients, but occasionally we do get the odd gripe. I personally deal with all dissatisfied Clients and take their complaints personally to the extent that I will resolve them if an issue can be resolved. This said we occasionally get absolutely silly complaints and whilst we try to deal with them in a professional and curteous manner I would suggest that Client's beware. We are professionals who have much experience in the indusrty and we do not suffer fools gladly.

Now that we have set out the Rules of the Game, lets Build...

How to Succeed in Your Home-Based Business - For Dummies

Please I want anyone, Architect or Not to Offer some comments on this Concept...

Initially Block Architects was established with a view to establishing a Home Office Model. The Concept of the business was to maximise on profitability by cutting overheads and allowing Experienced Architects with say 5 years post Part III qualifications to effectively work under the same branding and deliver consistent services with projects up to £2m construction cost.

I envisaged that a team of 20 Architects working throughout Scotland would be able to deliver a Service to any Client in Scotland including the Highlands & Islands and outer Coastal Extremities.

This Concept would be backed up by a Head Office Support Team who would carefully manage the brand however Individual Architect's would be responsible for their own businesses within the brand.

So what then are the advantages to the Architects for this type of model:-

1. Part of a bigger brand therefore not as isolated...
2. Opportunity to cross sell projects and cross generate business leads with Partnering Architects...
3. Tap into a Network of Specialist Advice from your Partnering Architects...
4. Receive regular CPD training...
5. Larger brand would make it easier to tap into Local Authority Contracts...
6. A Head Office who can offer general business support ie holiday cover and answering phones...
7. An opportunity to generate more wealth whilst being market competitive...
8. A FAR GREATER QUALITY OF LIFESTYLE...

Since conceptualising the business I moved the business out of the house and grew a small Local Office and whilst this brings its advantages it also has its disadvantages.

Will the changing market place make Architect's more interested in this Business Model?

How to Succeed in Your Home-Based Business - For Dummies

Architects Inspection Certificate

I have literally just received another call from a person who is looking to purchase a self build which does not have NHBC or an Architect's Inspection Certficate. Simply the Bank Lender will not consider lending on a property which cannot be proven to be build to an acceptable standard.

This seems to be a recurring subject over the last 2-3 months. I have never seen it on this scale before! Perhaps its simply that the Banks are tightening up on their systems and procedures?

Has anyone had any similar experiences? I would love to know.

CPD Training - Fakro Roof Windows

Today the Team at block architects received their CPD Certificates from Fakro. block architects attended a CPD which covered Roof Windows, Emergency Escape Windows and Loft Ladders.

We would highly recommend to anyone that you Consider and Investigate Fakro for your Roof lights. They have what would appear on the face of it to be a fantastic product.

Completion Certificate Reinvestigated

Every week we are now asked by prospective clients to assist them with the sale of their properties by preparing drawings in retrospect.

On this basis I would like to bring to your attention the following scenarios and highlight the simple mistakes made by the prospects.

Attic Conversion to Storage Room - This particular enquiry came when a Prospect advised that they did some time ago convert their attic into a Storage Room. Our understanding is that they contacted the local Planning Department who told them that they did not require planning permission for an attic conversion. This of course is absolutley correct and the Client proceeded as informed by the local Planning Department, however when it came to selling the property they were then advised that a Building Warrant Application was required. PLEASE remember everyone that the Planning Department and Building Control Departments are both different in their role, performance and function and that it is not the Planning Department's responsibility to advise on whether or not a Building Warrant is required. Also, it is not appropriate to take your builder's advise on these matters. You should seek professional advice from a professional Architect who can inform you of the steps that you are require to take to ensure that the works you are undertaken are done legally with the proper consents in place.

Attic Conversion to Useable Bedroom in retrospect - At block architects we try as much as possible to avoid thse projects. Quite simply we find that many Clients embark on this process but do not take professional advise regarding the strengthening of roof timbers or proper specification of wall and roof insulations. On the few occasions that we have agreed to take on these projects it's with the Prospect's express understanding that they may have to and are willing to strip out all of the works completed and to start from scratch. Again Seek professional advice! In the end up you could spend DOUBLE your budget just to correct or undo works that have not been done to the Council's satisfaction. We are finding more an more that Certficates of Comfort are not being issued. It is the Council's view that you need to get your projects up to scratch!

Garage Conversion to Useable Room - This is a favourite one of mine because its the easiest to get right which means that its the easiest to get wrong also. We recently had a Client's builder call to suggest that he was going to send us a drawing and tell us how to do a drawing based on a garage conversion that he did in the past which of course was of little likeness to the Garage we were now trying to convert. On this basis we need to remind the Builder that it is our responsibility to provide a set of drawing which comply with the current building Standards. Its the Builder's responsibility to follow this and not make it up as he goes along.

Block Architects Deliver Before Christmas

Many People do not understand the process of commencing a project on site. Its not as simple as phoning your Architect now and thinking that you can get started on site as soon as Christmas is over.

If you are in a position where you would like to start your Project in The Spring then you really do need to get the Architectural Process Started NOW ie in November. To find out more about the Architectural Process Click Here..

FACEBOOK

We have just created a Fan Page on Facebook where you can link in with business contacts who are right into social media and are interested in keeping up with minute by minute updates re block architects. Become a Facebook Fan of Block Architects.

Scottish Building Federation calls for VAT cut to boost building | News | Construction News

Scottish Building Federation calls for VAT cut to boost building News Construction News

I thing that VAT should be reduced and cash in hand 'cowboy' builders need to be reigned in. This might be a first step...

CIPS: Construction contracts for 20th month running | News | Construction News

CIPS: Construction contracts for 20th month running News Construction News

What Does The Future Hold For The Profession?

On my daily travels I am often asked ‘What Does The Future Hold For The Architectural Profession? This is a multi-faceted question and not particularly straight forward to answer but it’s certainly worth exploring some of the aspects in a bit more detail. So here goes at 1 or 2 of the aspects.

The Profession, for at least 10 years has undoubtedly enjoyed a huge growth period with many small Practices becoming absolute giants, seemingly overnight. Yes, it was fantastic to be part of that boom but Architects in Scotland are now faced with the challenge of developing and reacting to new pressures the likes of which many have not seen before. Sure some Practice’s may have seen recession before but not at the pace and scale witnessed over the last year.

In today’s market place Architect’s in Scotland need to be evermore proactive in hunting down work. There is work out there but it’s a fight to secure it and yes there are many shifts in many if not all of the market places with many of the larger consultancies downscaling at rapid pace.

At Block Architects we believe that sticking rigidly to our market sector, despite it’s shrinking size, will in the long run pay dividends when the market grows strong. Our focus to maintain high customer standards for projects up to £2m will I am sure allow our Client Base to stay true. Many of the larger Practices have moved into our market place and they are securing some commissions however we believe that their systems, procedures, skills and people will be severely tested. I afterall came from this side of the Profession and it took us 3 years of hard graft to perfect our systems and we are still learning more every day.

These smaller projects are often very demanding, often much more so that the large projects on a large clean site. If you are considering a small project and require an Architect then you do need to think carefully about matching the right Practice with the Right Project. It’s a bit like trying to get a fighter pilot to fly a commercial jet. Yes he could do it but he would probably throw the commercial jet around a bit and make a few errors before getting a handle on the thing!

So, don’t delay and think carefully when you are choosing an Architect. If you need any more advice on Choosing An Architect, and hopefully a Block Architect, please feel free to telephone me on 01698 422358

Interior Design Partnership - Smith And Brown Glasgow

We are delighted to announce that Block Architects, Glasgow have newly joined forces with Interior Design Practice Smith and Brown, Glasgow. Kenneth was aware that during the last few years of trading that some of his Clients were seeking a one stop shop in offering architectural and interior design services. With this in mind Kenneth has been working hard to find an Interior Design Consultancy who could meet his high expectations.

Kenneth would like to welcome Smith and Brown to his Team of Professional Consultants and is sure that this is the start of positive things to come.

Director of Smith and Brown, Donna McBeath Smith stated: "Its great to collaborate with an Architectural Consultancy who has the same Design ethics as ourselves. We are sure that this will be a fruitful Partnership and look forward to completing many projects with Block Architects."

What I Did Before Block Architects - Livingston FC

This is the second article ‘What Did I do Before Block Architects’ which features 2 buildings at Livingston Football Club completed when I was an Associate Director at GCA, Coatbridge. I spent 5 years at this Practice and made a few friends some of whom I keep in contact with today.

It was an interesting time working at Coatbridge. There was a smallish team of approximately 10 technical staff and 3 admin staff working on various small to medium sized projects. Many of the Projects were football based as the then Owner of the Practice, Mr Gerry Connolly was involved with a Development company which specialised in the redevelopment of Football Stadia.

I’ve attached a photograph which I took personally on Saturday whilst driving past the stadium. This is a 5 storey Office Development which was one of two proposed identical buildings were to flank opposite corners of the Main Stand. In the end we only ever built one of the office blocks.

At the time I was also responsible for delivering a detailed planning approval for a 60 bed hotel and leisure development which was to be located in front of the main stand. This development unfortunately was never realised by the Club but certainly it reflected the Strong Vision by then Chairman, Mr Dominic Keane.

As part of the Masterplan exercise we also considered some housing located on the site and also a 3 storey NightClub and Hospitality Wing which was to be set behind the West Stand, In the end up we built only the ground floor of the Night Club, known as (from memory) the NightSpot (quite original).

Unfortunately, there has been much negative press associated with Club in recent months but nonetheless I am proud to have been part of a Team who shared and attempted to deliver a Super Stadium for a well supported local Team.

House Projects by Block Architects, Scotland

I thought that I would add a couple of images by block architects, scotland. I want to show you some of the house designs that we have completed over the last year or so. These houses were designed by us specifically to meet the Client's brief.

They are relatively standard family homes situated within everyday streetscapes and reflect a standard of work which we are happy to deliver.

For these Clients we provided a design services, planning & building warrant, tender process and architectureal sign off all for bank monitoring etc. We have a few houses going through similar processes right now and we think it would be great for you to see them so here goes.

Kidney Transplant Update

I thought I would drop a quick update blog re the Kidney Transplant. Dad was back in hospital earlier this week getting a wee operation on his heart. All is well and nothing to worry about with this but because of this unforseen operation the Transplant Team have decided to put the operation back until early next year. Nonetheless we are keeping our spirits high knowing that Christmas will be a good one!

Appointing an Architect - Tip #5

Your Architect should have Case Studies... Get references and testimonials from your Architect. This will ensure that your Architect has the right experience to meet your requirements and that he can deliver your project...

Business Is Booming

If you have been reading this blog you will be aware that Block Architects, Hamilton continue to work alongside actionCOACH. Last night I was at the 'Business is Booming' Seminar at Glasgow. Approximately 300 guests turned up to the FREE event where Brad disclosed 28 Ways to Boost your business. I find the teaching of actionCOACH to be fascinating.

Some of the topics that Brad covered included The Business Chassis, Customer Retention, Buy Build Sell, Gratitude and Celebration.

I have now worked with my Coach Mr Iain McKillop for over 4 years and as much as we have progress I need once more to get my head down and get back into growing a business. The economic cycle is changing. We all enjoyed the summer months ie economic boom and most of us suffered during the autumn and winter months. Well guess what! Spring is coming and yes the economic cycle is coming full circle. It's going to be summer time again and I am getting my head down and getting on with growing my business so that I can enjoy the good times. Why will I be able to enjoy the good times? Simply because I have planned for them! Get yourself a coach.

Appointing an Architect - Tip#4

Your Architect should have Contacts... Many Architects work in isolation especially those who are one man practices. This is not necessarily a bad thing but an Architect must have contacts to resolve any upcoming matters. Make sure your Architect has several years experience within your geographical area and has established good working relationships with professionals in various disciplines who are all at the top of their game. This network is then available at your fingertips. Block Architects, Hamilton have many local contacts whom we can refer any building related questions.

Block Architects deliver new restaurant in East Kilbride

Block Architects would like to congratulate Client Mr Amiy Singh on the opening of his new Restaurant and TakeAway at Glebe Street in The Old Village at East Kilbride. We were involved in the preparation of the Planning and Building Warrant Approvals and would commend Mr Singh with his interior fit out. Its a truly pleasant environment to eat and we are sure will be a fantastic new restaurant in the Village. Here's to the success of Asha's!

Appointing an Architect - Tip #3

You need to choose the right Architect for your project...

Believe me it’s not a matter of asking your Architect for a set of simple drawings. The Construction and Delivery Process is complex and the beurocracy involved is more complex than ever. A Professional Architect can smooth the Delivery Process and bring Added Value to your project. Not only can an Architect design your project and negotiate with Local Authorities on your behalf, they can also assist you and your Contractor in the delivery of the project. An Architect will take control and assist in the organisation of your Contractor to ensure that your requirements on costs and programme dates are delivered. Full site inspection and sign off facilities are also available from your Architect but make sure that they carry an appropriate level if Professional Indemnity Insurance.

Appointing an Architect - Tip #2

Choose an Architect with a Customer Service record... Your Architect should know, understand and most importantly inform you that construction projects can be testing for everyone involved. A truly Professional Service which is tried and tested will recognise that good communications between the whole design team and the client ensures the realisation of your vision. Choose an Architect who operates on a full communication policy who will call, email or write a letter in order to keep you and the project team informed.

Kenneth's on the new Social Media Podcast

We have just uploaded the latest episode of the Social Media Podcast to iTunes and it features an interview with Kenneth Martin.
Kenneth is in good company, the podcast also features an interview with the man who masterminded the Labour Party's 1997 General Election win and worked with them through till 2007. Alastair Campbell talks about the role of social media in polotics, especially in the run up to next year's election.

You can listen to the podcast here

"I'll Never Do Another Opera"

Podcastmatters caught up with "The King Of Architecture" Kenneth Martin at an Entrepreneurial Exchange event. In the video above Kenneth reflects on what he did before Block Architects.

Building Warrant or Not?

I have returned last night from another client who was directed by a solicitor in the purchase of the flat. As it turns out the flat does not appear to have a building warrant and as such I have been asked to anticipate what is involved to get a Certificate of Comfort.

A Certificate of Comfort would allow the sale of the property but does not strictly mean that the works are in full accordance with the building control regulations.

The moral of the story here is that any development or property alterations should have the appropriate paperwork in place. This client bought the property 11 years so you can tell how time catches up with you.

Please make sure that all of your paperwork is in place.

Appointing an Architect - Tip #1

Taking the Decision to approach an Architect... Stop and imagine that by the time you have paid off your 25 year mortgage that you will have given the bank more than double what you have borrowed. Your property is your most valued Asset. You must protect this Asset by ensuring that you Invest in the right Architect for your Project. Divide your Architects fee by 25 years and you will understand that it is excellent value for money and an important Investment which protects your prized Asset.

Get an ActionCOACH

I have just completed another 90 Day planning seminar thanks to my Business Coach, Iain McKillop. An actionCOACH is a simply a Coach who assists me in running the business ie he assists me in reaching targets and makes me accountable and responsible for achieving the goals that I set for the business.

I will be working on the 90 day goals over the coming week and will happily post these on the blog. If anyone is interested in Business Coaching please feel free to contact me.

I was asked the question 'When can I stop Coaching?' The honest answer is never! I stoppped coaching about a year ago and that was after a 3.5 year coaching period. I stopped because I had reached my goals but I soon found that my business was going backwards or atleast I wasn't setting new goals.

I am now back on track.

I've Got Two, I Only Need One

As we have seen in the last post , "The King Of Architecture" Kenneth Martin talking about the launch of his new blog. In this video Kenneth talks more on how he is also using his blog as a diary for his forthcoming kidney transplant. More videos with Kenneth to follow soon.

The King Of Architecture

Podcastmatters caught up with "The King Of Architecture" Kenneth Martin at an Entrepreneurial Exchange event, to talk about the launch of his new blog. In the video above Kenneth talks about the new blog as well as Block Architects online social media presence. More videos with Kenneth to follow soon.

The Teachings of Sir Jackie Stewart OBE

I have just returned last night from an Entrepreneurial Exchange event with Sir Jackie Stewart OBE. It was held last night at the Norton House Hotel in Edinburgh.

Here are some of the key points made by Jackie (as scripted by me):

• Vision is more important than the Dream. Dreamers do not know how to get to the end result and complete the loop!
• When starting a new professional or business relationship always think of the longterm relationship. These always return the best results. Shorterm relationships are not beneficial to anyone.
• If you get out stay out! Don't drop your toe back in the water.
• Always surround yourself with TOP people and specialists who know more than you OR if you fly with the crows you will get shot with the crows.
• Attention to Detail is important - Always Deliver
• Find your Councel. If you don't have a good Councel then seek one out. The most successful in life in business have good Councel.
• Ask yourself 'How good am I and What are my failings.'
• If you need something done go to today's men who are doiong a good job and forget about those who have a good reputation as this is of the past.

I am sure that there was many many more key points but these were the points that stood out to me.

http://www.entrepreneurial-exchange.co.uk/

www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/hotels/Norton-House

http://www.sirjackiestewart.com/

Is the client always right?

A light hearted video for this sunny morning! View...

What did I do before block architects?

Some people have been asking me what did I do before block architects? Over the next few weeks I will provide you with some images of some of the projects that I worked on. I didnt design them all but took an integral part.

The images above are of The Lowry designed by MWP Ltd, London. I worked there when I was doing my Part II training. It was a fantastic environment to train. MWP office was 5 storeys at 8 Fitzroy Square, London and it was also the office of Sir James Stirling, Michael Wilfords previous business partner. I remember fondly the year or so that I spent at the office working and learning from some great Architects including Sutherland & Hussey who now have their own highly acclaimed practice in Edinburgh.

Here's more about the Lowry:

Set in a magnificent waterside location at the heart of the redeveloped Salford Quays in Greater Manchester, The Lowry is an architectural flagship with a unique and dynamic identity. Rising from the regenerated docklands, it is a welcoming building, designed to reflect the surrounding landscapes and flourishing waterways, in its glass and metallic surfaces.
The Lowry opened on 28th April 2000, bringing together a wide variety of performing and visual arts under one roof. Opening its door to the best in entertainment and education in the arts, The Lowry aims to give everyone access to new areas of creativity and to embrace its broad community.

The Lowry houses two main theatres and studio space for performing arts (1,730, 466 and 180 seats respectively) presenting a full range of drama, opera, ballet, dance, musicals, children's shows, popular music, jazz, folk and comedy and gallery spaces (1,610 metres of floor space); showing the works of LS Lowry alongside contemporary exhibitions.
Movement into and through the building generates an air of theatricality, festivity and anticipation. The layout of The Lowry encourages visitors to explore and enjoy the variety of facilities housed within it, throughout the day and evening. An open ramped route with dramatic views connects the theatre foyers and gallery spaces, forming a public promenade around the building, linking all activities.

A restaurant, cafes & bars are situated along the southern side of the building, with spectacular waterside views and in fine weather can extend out to quayside terraces overlooking the expansive Manchester Ship Canal.

A breathtaking new international landmark, The Lowry is a "must see" tourist attraction - not just a venue, but a destination. The Lowry increases opportunities for social interaction within the community and generate a spirit of participation. Above all, it is an exciting and stimulating venue for education, recreation and creativity.

http://www.thelowry.com/

http://www.michaelwilford.com/

IMAGES: Barcelona FC 'stadium at sea' plans | News | Construction News

IMAGES: Barcelona FC 'stadium at sea' plans | News | Construction News

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Croy Development

Here is the image of the development in Croy that we have recently received planning permission.

We are members of Constructionline

block architects are delighted to announce that we are now accredited members of constructionline. To find out more please visit http://www.constructionline.co.uk/

CIPS: Construction declines at slowest rate since April 2008 | News | Construction News

CIPS: Construction declines at slowest rate since April 2008 | News | Construction News

Shared via AddThis

Recovering Economy

The Global economy is finally recovering from the deepest recession since the war, the International Monetary Fund declared yesterday. IMF chief economist Oliver Blanchard said world leaders must now focus on ways of sustaining the tentative rebound that is underway. 'The recovery had started. Sustaining it will require rebalancing acts, both within and across countries, but there are still deep scars' he wrote.

The assessment comes after official figures showed Germany, France and Japan emerged from recession in the second quarter of the year.

Yesterday Chancellor Alistair Darling insisted Britain would not be far behind the growth resuming later this year.

The IMF's most recent forecast suggest that global gross domestic product will fall 1.4% this year before rising 2.5% in 2010. Its outlook for Britain is far less optimistic, however. Output here could drop 4.2% this year and rebound just 0.2% next year, according to July estimates.

The fund is due to update those figures in the coming weeks.

Source. www.dailymail.co.uk

Kidney Update

Returned today from a hospital visit at Stobhill where the surgeon's explained to my Dad and I and of course our good ladies (mum and Sandra) exactly what the next stages of the transplant process are.

In simple terms both Dad and I need to speak to an independent assesor to ensure that we are fully aware of what we are undertaking and thereafter we can firm up on a date. It would appear thereafter that the Surgeons have 6 months to carry out the transplant however, it looks like things may be set for November.

Architect’s Certification or Not?

Many Client’s don’t understand that when undertaking a self build that the Certification of the build by the Architect is an important and often mandatory Funding Requirement, but what are the implications of not obtaining an Architect’s Certificate when the Client is self funding?

The Certification process involves Architect’s site inspection at key stages of the build thus ensuring for the Funder (typically the Bank) that the build is true to the Planning and Warrant Approvals and in keeping with good building practice. Obviously the Architect’s Professional Indemnity Insurance would be called in should a problem occur with the house but the insurance would only pay out when it is proven that the Architect acted out with his means in signing off the stage.

When the Client is self funding the build then it’s quite common that they will avoid Architectural Certification and this may be ok in the short term until such times as the house is offered up to the market for sale. The purchaser’s solicitor would typically ask for the Architect’s Certificate on a self build and if the Vendor cannot provide this then it is extremely unlikely that the Purchaser’s Solicitor and Funder would accept the house.

In my opinion the Certification of the house is a small price to pay for piece of mind especially after such a huge investment.

Certification of the house can vary between £1500 - £2500 depending on the size of the house.

Lance Armstrong meets Frank Gerhy

Here is the tweet post sent by Lance Armstrong from the U2 Concert at Hampden Park, Glasow when he met the legendary Frank Gerhy. Kyle from Podcastmatters also managed to capture some video footage of Lance's trip to Paisley earlier in the day.

New Scottish Planning Regime

I have been asked on several occasions to write some script on the New Scottish Planning Regime. Instead I came across this interesting article by Biggart Baillie and hope that it fulfills all of your queries. Please click here.

Regards

Kenneth

I will only need one Kidney!

Yes that’s right I like most people only need one kidney so that’s why I have decided to give the other one to my dad. That’s him (Hugh) in the picture. The picture was taken on my wedding day at Auchen Castle, Moffat.

Dad has been ill for almost 10 years and despite the fact that he is extremely well and has a long life expectancy his quality of life is not what it should be. He is a youthful man all things considered. Dad now has 3 grand daughters all under the age of 2 and has a lot to look forward to.

After careful discussion with my wife, Sandra we agreed just over a year ago that I would put my name forward for a transplant. On the day that I called Dad’s nurse to enquire how to go about it, I got a tearful call from Mum. Dad was in hospital with a suspected heart attack! Granted he drove himself to the hospital! Make your own mind up about what scenario is most worrying. As it turned out Dad actually had an Angina attack but as such he was removed from the Transplant List.

I continued with the initial testing and this has been going on for just over a year. The testing included blood screening and matching and general health and well being discussions and thereafter we needed to wait for Doctors to confirm that Dad’s health was ok to go forward with the Transplant ie put him back on the list. Even although I am a live donor he still needs to be on the list. Dad and I met the Surgeon about 2 months ago and he agreed that Dad was ok to go back on the list, although associated risks would be higher.

Over the last month I have undergone a Kidney function test, assessing the efficiency of both of my kidneys and I did last week undergo an MRI scan to assess the entry and exit of the main blood vessels in and out of the Kidney. The function test went well but we still await the results of the MRI scan.

Everything going well we hope to be under the knife before Christmas.

I have decided to blog about our journey through this period because I think it may help other people in a similar situation. Likewise, I would be happy to hear from anyone who has been in a similar situation and have them add their particular experience or, comment on my own story.

Keep checking for further updates.

Kenneth

Mixed use development

Hey All. I've just received planning permission for a mixed use development in Croy, Cumbernauld.

It would help me greatly if I could help the developer to fill the units. The units include dentist, retail (hopefully pharmacy) and a children's nursery.

If any of you know any operators it would be great if you could ask them to get in touch with me.

My contact number is 01698 422358/07795833675

Regards

Kenneth Martin

The back door is open at Building Control!

I have just completed a building warrant application for a lovely family for a simple extension on the side of their house. I wasn’t their first ‘Architect’ to receive a commission but I certainly got to the task at hand and rectified the initial ‘Architect’s glaring mistakes.

You see there are many ‘designers’ out there who are not qualified architects or qualified technicians and as such they do not have to register to a professional body. These ‘designers’ often have limited skill and knowledge but profess the world to their unsuspecting clients. Here’s the story.

The Client accepts a fee proposal for £1600+VAT for the ‘designer’ to prepare planning and building warrant drawings and then pays upfront including all planning and building warrant fees. After several months the client receives a set of drawings from the designer, which of course are not to their requirements and then begin the tortuous journey of trying to get the drawings changed whilst the designer ignores the Clients calls, emails and letters. Eventually the Client receives a set of drawings which are to their satisfaction and they instruct the designer to lodge the planning application. When the designer lodges the planning application the cheque bounces, much to the frustration of the Client who has paid the planning fee upfront. The Client, out of sheer frustration, directly pays another planning fee to the Council knowing fine well that the initial fee paid to the designer is lost. The designer then lodges a building warrant application using the planning drawings i.e. there is little technical information on the drawings and thereafter building control write to the Client with over 30 comments and observations on the drawings! What a pig’s ear!!! That’s where I stepped in.

The moral of the story or the important issue for discussion is simply that building control will happily request proof of competency from a structural engineer, gas engineer or an electrician but they do not expect the designer to have any professional qualifications.

I consider that the Scottish Planning & Building Control System should be changed such that only registered Architects (ARB) or registered Technologists (CIAT) be allowed to prepare application drawings and packages. As such all application will then be produced by professionals who belong to professional bodies.

It is not acceptable that the Planning & Building Control System will accept sub standard applications from designers, draughtsmen, ex building control officers, surveyors all of whom have a little knowhow of considering the complexities of design, construction, and delivery as a homogenous whole. I do believe that there are some out there who are good and committed to service but to date the most that we have found are only interested in taking the money and running.

Will the Scottish System be reviewed to insist on qualifications for those acting as the lead designer? I think that it should.

Kenneth Martin
Block Architects

Does social media work?

You may wonder about the value of Block Architects having a blog or, the value of social media in general. Social media is comparatively new so it's natural that there may be some scepticism out there however, I just came across a story that clearly demonstrates how social media is changing the way we communicate and, how everyone now has the power of communication at there fingertips. In fact, in one week this video has been viewed over 2,500,000 on YouTube, that's impressive and should make United Airlines Customer Relations department take some notice.

A band called Sons of Maxwell have produced the first of three songs about the fact that American Airlines broke his guitar whilst he travelled with them on a tour. The band witnessed baggage handlers throwing their guitars about while they were sitting on the plane and when they retrieved the baggage a $3500 Taylor guitar was badly damaged. American Airlines didn't deny it happened but they appeared not to care about it and the Band were getting nowhere with their complaint.

Here is the post on band member Dave Carroll's blog:

"In the spring of 2008, Sons of Maxwell were traveling to Nebraska for a one-week tour and my Taylor guitar was witnessed being thrown by United Airlines baggage handlers in Chicago. I discovered later that the $3500 guitar was severely damaged. They didn’t deny the experience occurred but for nine months the various people I communicated with put the responsibility for dealing with the damage on everyone other than themselves and finally said they would do nothing to compensate me for my loss. So I promised the last person to finally say “no” to compensation (Ms. Irlweg) that I would write and produce three songs about my experience with United Airlines and make videos for each to be viewed online by anyone in the world. United: Song 1 is the first of those songs. United: Song 2 has been written and video production is underway. United: Song 3 is coming. I promise."

You can watch the video here.

Not too long ago this would not have been possible, people simply didn't have this type of voice. Yes, I think social media works very well and I imagine United Airlines have similar views.

Why don’t all Planning Departments work to the same Planning Guidelines?

I love it when a project starts on site. It’s always refreshing to see the ground breaking with the first cut. Let’s face it the drawings and planning permissions and building warrants etc are all just a formality to get us to the stage that we all want to get to and that’s the start of the build. This is what the Client really wants to see. It’s like Christmas morning for the Client. The arrival of the JCB marks the first tear of wrapping paper.

I’ve attached a few images of a new bungalow build for a farmer in Strathaven, South Lanarkshire. Block Architects didn’t design the house we simply negotiated a design through the Planning and Building Warrant Process. The house was supplied by a local timber kit designer/manufacturer and we were happy to assist.

The Planning Process on this house was interesting in that National Planning Policy required the Council to condition us to improve the Carbon Footprint by an increase of 10% over and above the requirements of the current building control regulations. I have been involved recently with other similar builds in other local authority areas and yet we haven’t been asked to meet the same regulations. This is no slight on South Lanarkshire Council. At the end of the day this has the overall benefit to the environment and as Architects I am wholly in support of getting Client’s to think positively of these extra ‘burdens’.

I suppose the question of reaching congruency between and within local authorities departments is difficult to answer but surely if this edict comes from high it is a no brainer that all authorities should adopt it?

Update

Hi there

Just to say, lots of posts coming soon, people coming back from holidays now so much to talk about at tomorrow's new media meeting.

Clare

Hello from Clare

Hi, I'm Clare Malcolm, part of the new media team at Block Architects. I just wanted to say a quick hello, I will be submitting posts to the blog on a whole range of subjects, these might be related to Block Architects, architecture in general or, just things I think may be of interest to the readers.

A good blog depends on engagement with the readers so we will value your feedback and comments on anything you post in the future so, please feel free to take part in the blog whenever you feel like it.

I'll be back posting soon,

Clare.

Welcome to the Block Blog!

Hello, I'm Kenneth Martin, owner of Block Architects and one of the contributors to this blog.

Social media is very much part of our day-to-day life and, as a progressive architectural practice, we want to keep you informed using the best means possible. We already have a Twitter feed where you can get short update messages but the blog will have more detailed information about the practice, the clients, industry news, our staff and other relevant and interesting stories.

We are also keen to let you know about more about the personalities at Block Architects; you know what they say about all work and no play! So, we will be including some posts about what we get up to on a personal front and, we would love to hear back from some of the people who read the blog.

Please subscribe to the blog and ask your friends and colleagues to do the same, we want to build a useful resource that encourages people to engage with us on a full range of topical issues.

Thank you for your time so far, I hope you enjoy the blog in the future.

Regards

Kenneth