Flatted Development in Motherwell

Block Architects lodge planning permission for 22 flats within the Mothwell Area.

The Client has asked that each of the 1 and 2 bedroom flats have access provided via a lift hence allowing the elderly market to tap into this resource.

The site benefits from being in an area where many local small shopping facilities have been created which are in short walking distance.

Here's one I did earlier! - Respite Care Home

I was passing Motherwell Town Centre with the girls and Sandra(wife) and I took this quick snap of a building I designed and delivered almost 10 years ago.

We won the commission (GCA Architects, Coatbridge) when I was a Trainee Architect. It was a local competition of about 6 firms and I prepare the competition entry which of course we won.

Therafter, PHEW (Parental Help Evening's and Weekends) was to become my baby for the next 3 years.

David McKendrick (PHEW Secretary) was the Client Representative having been involved with the charity for quite some time. Effectively the brief was to deliver a 14 bed respite care Hotel for both adults and kids with learning difficulties. The Project comprised bedrooms (all ensuite), gym, sensory room, swimming pool, games room, hairdressing area, bar, reception an admin, carers drop in centre and day accommodation including lounge and dining spaces.

The Plan was centred around a sensory garden which was truly sensory ie not a few herbs stuck in the corner. We had a very large water feature which made loads of noise including a glass fronted fish tank, stainless steel water channels and a small external pool which was ramped so that wheelchair users could dip their feet in the water! We also had a mirrored wall with a swing cantilevered off it and the kids loves watching their reflection in the mirror!

The building is still looking good and I believe working well for its users.

Update on Strathaven Self Build

Following my recent visit to the site in Strathaven South Lanarkshire we have posted today some pictures of the foundations and underbuild. Great progress made by the contractor in only a week.

As Part of our service we are certifying the build which means that we will visit the site on say 9 -10 occasions to inspect the built at the key stages of construction.

Particulalry where self build is concerned this is necessary for funding purposes. As most people borrow money from the bank or building society these organisations will look for an Architects to inspect the build and provide certifcations. Architect's carry Professional Indemnity Insurance which can be called on should the Client require to challenge the policy.

However at block architects we are very knowledgable in self build and consider that you will receive a fantastic service. Click here for our self build video tips.

Self Building

Kenneth Martin, owner of Block Architects, shares his top 5 tips on business self build projects.

If you would like to see more videos of Kenneth, please click here

Architects on Site with Another Self Build

I have just returned today from a site in Strathaven, South Lanarkshire where we are assisting a Client with the site inspection of a Self Build Property.

The Client is a farming family and we have recently negotiated the project through planning, building control and SEPA. Frought with difficulties from the start it was with pleasure that we visited site today with Ian Lindsey Builder to inspect the trench dig.

Some of the issues associated with the build were:-

• Green Belt Land requiring a lengthy planning process and Section 75 agreement


• SAC Report required assessing the justification of an additional dwelling with the farm


• SEPA approval requires for Bio Disc discharge


• Upgrade of thermal insulation of the house to comply with PAN guidelines.

If you are currently considering a self build in a rural environment please contact us early to receive professional information. You can find more on the self build process at our web page.