news...
QUALITY CONTINUES TO BE A PRIORITY FOR THE PRACTICE
We are pleased to announce the successful reassessment of our ISO 9001 accredited Quality Management System.
ISO 9001 was first attained in 2010 and has been annually reassessed to ensure continued compliance with the standard.
The most recent audit, which was carried out by the British Standards Institute, was the second successful reassessment of the Quality Management system since the Practice attained ISO 9001 accreditation.
Stephen McGhee, Partner, stated “We are delighted that our Quality Management System continues to meet the standards set out in ISO 9001 and we are delighted that our continued commitment to provide a quality service to our clients is recognised."
Published: 17/02/2012
LMA ARCHITECTS : ARCHITECTURAL BLOG
Published: 14/02/2012
PREMIER INN OPENS AT NEWTON MEARNS
Works have now been completed and the new Premier Inn and Beefeater at Newton Mearns is due to open to the public on the 13th of February.
The 60 bed development with an on-site Beefeater Restaurant is located in Greenlaw Village off of the M77, South side of Glasgow.
This hotel is one of a number of projects in Scotland for Premier Inn, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates - currently on site or at the design stages.
Published: 03/02/2012
PREMIER INN OPENS AT EDINBURGH PARK
Works have now been completed and the new Premier Inn at Edinburgh Park is due to open to the public on the sixth of February.
The Solus Premier Inn - with 120 bedrooms, 5 meeting-rooms, Costa Coffee and Thyme Restaurant - is located in South Gyle, positioned next to Edinburgh Park Train Station. A tram line is also being built next to the building - a ten minute journey to the airport and a twenty minute journey to reach the town centre.
This development is one of a number of projects in Scotland for Premier Inn, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates - currently on site or at the design stages.
Published: 01/02/2012
PREMIER INN OPENS AT INVERNESS
Works have now been completed and the new Premier Inn and Beefeater at Inverness is due to open to the public on the 30th of January.
The 76 bed development is the one of a number of projects in Scotland for Premier Inn, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates - currently on site or at the design stages.
Loch Ness House Hotel, as the Inverness development will be known, replaces the former hotel of the same name, but only the front façade of the original building was retained to form the entrance elevation to the Beefeater restaurant.
The Premier Inn is a separate 4-storey contemporary building with a copper clad link to the restaurant.
Published: 20/01/2012
LMA ARCHITECTS : ARCHITECTURAL BLOG
Published: 20/01/2012
MERRY CHRISTMAS 2011
Published: 21/12/2011
WORKS START ON FORT WILLIAM PREMIER INN EXTENSION
Works have started on an extension to the Premier Inn at Loch Iall An Aird, Fort William.
The 42 bed extension, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, will bring the total number of bedrooms to 102. In addition to the extension to the Premier Inn, the Brewers Fayre restaurant will also be extended to increased to accomodate and additional 60 diners.
The works are being carried out by Ogilvie Construction and are expected to complete by May 2012.
This project is one of a number of projects in Scotland, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates for Premier Inn, currently on site or in the design stages.
Published: 02/12/2011
THOUGHTS OF AN ARCHITECTURE STUDENT
Published: 02/12/2011
MEET OUR STAFF : CAITLIN MACLEOD
Continuing our series of interviews, giving you an insight into the staff of Lawrence McPherson Associates, the third candidate into the interview chair is our newest member of staff, Caitlin Macleod.
What do you do in your current job role?
"I am the first point of contact within Lawrence McPherson Associates, answering calls and greeting clients as they come into our office. I also deal with the administration side of the company, as well as making sure everything is running smoothly within the office."
What do you like about your current job?
"I love everything about my job here. I started a mere month or so ago and already feel as though I am part of the team - all of the staff are so kind! I enjoy discovering about the previous and current jobs that the Practice has taken on and I find it amazing what they do."
What did you do before you joined Lawrence McPherson Associates?
"I had just recently left school after deciding I would rather go into work. It was the best decision I have ever made."
What do you do in your free time?
"When I'm not writing or spending time with my friends, I regularly volunteer for Marie Curie. I am currently saving up in the hopes of travelling to Ghana to volunteer, where I will teach English to young children."
What type of music do you currently listen to and what's your favourite album of all time?
"I like a whole range of music. My all time favourites would have to be Angus and Julia Stone, Frank Sinatra and The Smiths - each brilliant in their own way. 'Down the Way' from Angus and Julia Stone is possibly the most beautiful album ever written - I would recommend it to anyone."
Tell us something about yourself you that we don't already know?
"I can play 'My Heart Will Go On' by Celine Dion with my jaw, after dislocating it a while back. Totally unnecessary and slightly painful, but downright hilarious!"
Published: 04/11/2011
GOOD NEWS ON THE HOUSING FRONT
Lawrence McPherson Associates has obtained Planning Permission in Principle from South Ayrshire Council for a development of 680 houses at Barassie, North East Troon. The successful applicants are Stewart Milne Homes (in partnership with Lynch Homes) who have been promoting the site for over 16 years, initially through the Local Plan process and latterly through the repercussions of the recession. 100 of the units will be Affordable Houses.
Originally approved by the Council in December 2007 as a 600 house development including 150 Affordable units, the amended development is a reflection of the changed circumstances facing the house building industry as a result of the recession and the ongoing difficulties in the financial markets. Heavy emphasis is also placed on Designing Streets in the overall Masterplan for the site.
Euan Lawrence, the planning Partner within Lawrence McPherson Associates who has worked with the applicant throughout the duration of the project complimented the company on pressing forward with the project : "a huge investment of time and effort has been made by the company in producing an amended scheme which is not only financially viable in the current financial climate but which will provide a high quality and attractive addition to the urban fabric of Troon. The development will represent the first major housing development in the Troon area for many years and will also help boost the local economy."
Subject to the necessary legal agreements being concluded and all additional consents being obtained, Stewart Milne Homes and their development partner Lynch Homes hope to commence works on site next summer.
Published: 04/11/2011
ARCHITECTS RAISE 120K FOR SHELTER
Lawrence McPherson Associates are proud to have taken part in The Royal Institute of British Architects Architect in the House scheme which raised over £120,000 for Shelter, the housing and homelessness charity.
Architect in the House gave homeowners a one hour free consultation with a local RIBA or RIAS chartered architect in exchange for a suggested donation to Shelter.
The money raised goes towards Shelter's work with families in housing need. One in seven children in Britain lives in housing that's run-down, overcrowded, or temporary. Shelter provides services to support them, and fights to defend their education, health and wellbeing. A donation of £40 could pay for a helpline adviser to give emergency housing advice to a family fleeing domestic violence.
For more information on Shelter and their work go to www.shelter.org.uk
Published: 29/09/2011
PREMIER INN CONSTRUCTION WORKS COMPETE AT PORTLETHAN
Works have completed on an annex to the Premier Inn at Portlethan, Aberdeenshire; on time and budget.
The 30 bed extension, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, is the second extension by the )ractice to the Premier Inn since the original hotel was built. The 2 storey stand alone block, built by Ogilvie Construction, brings the total number of bedrooms to 92.
This project is the one of a number of projects in Scotland for Premier Inn, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates and currently on site or at the design stages.
Published: 23/09/2011
MEET OUR STAFF : BARRY KERR
Following our new series, giving you an insight into the staff of Lawrence McPherson Associates, second into the interview chair this week is Barr Kerr.
What do you do in your current job role?
"I currently deal with the day-to-day requests from site and aim to resolve problems and queries as quickly as possible. I also provide any additional information where it is required."
What do you like about your current job?
"I like watching the building works progress, for example, on a new build project after the site works start and the foundations and ground floor build up are started the building still looks small. However once the walls and roof progress it's hard to imagine the site as it previously was."
What did you do before you joined Lawrence McPherson Associates?
"I started my career working for a smaller Architect's office in Ayr before leaving to study towards a BSc in Architectural Technology at Napier University in Edinburgh. I joined Lawrence McPherson Associates after graduation."
What's the best project you have ever worked on?
"120 Bedroom Premier Inn and Beefeater Restaurant at Newbridge, Edinburgh."
What do you do in your free time?
"I enjoy playing football for a local amateur team, as well as following Ayr United and Scotland football teams. I also enjoy running around after my 11 month old daughter, Abbey."
What type of music do you currently listen to and what's your favourite album of all time?
"I'm currently into LMFAO, however I have a varied taste and my favourite album is Oasis - (What's the Story) Morning glory?"
Tell us something about yourself you that we don't already know?
"I can play the drums.
Published: 19/09/2011
LAWRENCE MCPHERSON ASSOCIATES : GLOWING AND BRONZED
Lawrence McPherson Associates, Chartered Architects and Town Planning Consultants, are celebrating after achieving the Investors in People Bronze Standard.
Having initially obtained the Investors in People Standard in 2002, the Practice was successfully reassessed in 2005 and 2008 when the Practice continued to meet the minimum 39 evidence based requirements for recognition as an Investor In People.
The revised 2011 Investors in People framework provides a wider choice-based approach which allows companies to go beyond The Standard, working towards further evidence requirements that are part of the extended framework and are relevant to a company’s priorities and goals. This extended and more rigorous framework is designed to offer continuous development and challenge a company's requirements.
The Practice decided to go beyond the basic Standard and an additional 18 evidence based requirements were successfully demonstrated in achieving the Bronze Standard.
Euan Lawrence, the Partner within Lawrence McPherson Associates responsible for coordinating the accreditation on behalf of the Practice, commented :
"Achieving the Investors In People Bronze Standard is a great achievement for everyone at Lawrence McPherson Associates and confirms the emphasis placed on developing the personal skills and abilities of all members of the Practice."
"The IIP Assessor praised the positive and constructive attitude demonstrated by all members of the Practice and identified numerous areas of good practice in the operation of the business. She considered that both of these factors were helping the Practice weather the recession and the downturn in the development industry. She also recognised the priority given to delivering a high quality service to clients."
The Practice will be reassessed again in three years' time
Published: 01/09/2011
LMA ARCHITECTS : ARCHITECTURAL BLOG
Published: 30/08/2011
NORTH AYRSHIRE COUNCIL FRAMEWORK WIN FOR PRACTICE
Lawrence McPherson Associates are celebrating after being selected by North Ayrshire Council to provide architectural services on a framework agreement for the next 2 years with an option for a 2 year extension.
Stephen McGhee, Partner with Lawrence McPherson Associates said "e are delighted to have been selected by North Ayrshire Council and look forward to working with them over the next few years."
"This contract win strengthens our client base in the local authority sector and is a testament to our experience and the service we are currently providing to our local authority clients."
He added "The Practice has an ethos of continual improvement and over the past 2 years the Practice has attained several accreditations to ensure that the service we provide is of the highest quality."
"The Practice has recently attained ISO 14001 (environmental) accreditation to add to it's ISO 9001 (quality assurance) accreditation and this win is as a result of the hard work and effort put in by everyone in the Practice to provide our clients with a high quality of service."
Published: 26/08/2011
CARE HOME RECEIVES PLANNING CONSENT
East Ayrshire Council have granted planning permission for the extension and refurbishment of Deanhouse Care Home, Kilmarnock designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates. The expansion constitutes a £1m investment and increases the capacity to more than double the number of bedrooms together with improved day facilities.
Jim McGinlay, Associate with Lawrence McPherson Associates said, `We are delighted by this decision and would like to thank everyone who gave their support for this project. This is great news for Deanhouse, their residents and local economy. It enables the Home to attain full Nursing Home status, enabling residents to receive continuing care without the need to relocate. It will create employment and training opportunities for registered nurses and those aspiring to a career in healthcare.'
Construction is programmed to commence in early January 2012, with completion anticipated in the Autumn 2012.
Published: 19/08/2011
PRACTICE CELEBRATES DOUBLE ACCREDITATION
Lawrence McPherson Associates are celebrating a double accreditation this week from the British Standards Institute having achieved ISO 9001 quality assurance and ISO 14001 environmental management accreditation for its Integrated Management System.
Susan Wilson, Architect responsible for the Practice's Integrated Management System, said "we are delighted that the BSI has accredited our integrated, quality and environmental, management system."
She added "This is a culmination of 2 years hard work and provides an excellent base for the Practice moving forward not only in the service we provide but in reducing the environmental impact of our business."
Stephen McGhee, Partner at Lawrence McPherson Associates said "Everyone at Lawrence McPherson Associates is committed to enhancing the service we provide to our clients and this accreditation of our service gives our clients further piece of mind that we not only conduct our business professionally but that our service meets the recognised British standards and International Standards."
Published: 10/08/2011
LMA ARCHITECTS : ARCHITECTURAL BLOG
Published: 09/08/2011
JOIN THE LMA FANTASY FOOTBALL LEAGUE
Every year since its inception in 2007, the LMA fantasy football league trophy has been fiercely contested within LMA.
This year we have decided to open the competition up and invite all comers to join in.
The coveted LMA Fantasy Football League trophy and mystery prize is awaiting the winner.
Taking part in the league is free!!!
Just follow these 3 simple steps :
1. Click on http://fantasy.premierleague.com/ and create an account.
2. Pick your team, remembering that you only have £100million to spend. If you don’t want to select a team there is a option to allow the computer to select a team for you.
3. Once you have selected your team, next step is to join our league, LMA Fantasy League 2011/12, using this code : 643216-292516.
Alan Law is going for his 4th title and we don’t want that to happen.
DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO COMPETE AND LIFT THE COVETED TROPHY?
Published: 08/08/2011
GLENROTHES PREMIER INN EXTENSION COMPLETED
Works have completed on an extension to the Premier Inn at Glenrothes, Fife; ahead of time and under budget.
The 26 bedroom extension, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, is the first extension to the Premier Inn since the original hotel was built.
The 2 storey extension was built by Ogilvie Construction and brings the total number of bedrooms to 64.
This project is one of a number of projects in Scotland for Whitbread, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, currently on site or in the design stages.
Click here for further information on our other hotel projects.
Published: 05/08/2011
MEET OUR STAFF : ALAN LAW
In a new series we will be giving you an insight into the staff of Lawrence McPherson Associates. First into the interview chair this week is Alan Law.
What do you do in your current job role?
"I'm a Senior Architectural Technician and Project Manager responsible for all matters relating to Building Control and the Technical Standards within the Practice.
As part of our ISO 9001 quality management system, I vet all Building Warrants prior to submission to ensure that they all comply with the Technical Standards. This approach ensures that our warrants are delivered more quickly, saving time and cost for our clients."
What do you like about your current job?
"Independence to project manage my own contracts and the proactive way we deal with Building Control and our Building Warrant submissions; plus LMA is the best place I have ever worked."
What did you do before you joined Lawrence McPherson Associates?
"I was a Building Standards Surveyor for Renfrewshire Council and before that I was a Senior Architectural Technician for Stagecoach UK."
What's the best project you have ever worked on?
"The refurbishment of the departure and arrival hall of Prestwick International Airport"
What do you do in your free time?
"Indoor and outdoor bowling and I have a vocation to be an 'international playboy'"
What type of music do you currently listen to and what's your favourite album of all time?
"My favourite band has always been Hue & Cry although I like Deacon Blue and Rod Stewart. At the moment I am listening to a lot of Swedish House Mafia. My favourite album of all time is Simple Minds, Live in the City of Light"
Tell us something about yourself you that we don't already know?
"When I was 14, I jumped over 19 people on my BMX and it took a while to find 19 volunteers who were willing to participate." (We wonder why?)
Published: 29/07/2011
SKIRMISHES COMPETION ENTRY
Check out our skirmishes competion entry.
Click here to see a larger scale image.
Leave a comment and let us know what you think.
Published: 28/07/2011
LMA ARCHITECTS : ARCHITECTURAL BLOG
Click here to read this week's blog; a look at Trainee Architects and the pros and cons for both employer and employee entitled "TRAINEE ARCHITECTS IN PRACTICE"
Please feel free to leave your comments on the blog.
Published: 15/07/2011
PRACTICE ONE STEP CLOSER TO ISO 14001 ACCREDITATION
Lawrence McPherson Associates are delighted to announce that their ISO 14001 Stage 2 audit by the British Standards Institute this week was successful.
Partner Stephen McGhee stated "We are extremely pleased to have our Environmental Management System recommended for accreditation by the BSI. A lot of hard work and effort went into the development of the management system and we are delighted for this to be recognised."
Stephen added that "We see this accreditation as yet another important part in our commitment to improve the service we provide to our clients and to reduce the impact that our business has on the environment.
“We have set the goal of reducing our carbon footprint every year and to promote and champion sustainable design and technologies in all of our projects.”
Published: 05/07/2011
AJ AND TCN REVEAL THE UK'S MOST INFLUENTIAL ARCHITECTS USING TWITTER
This week the AJ (Architect's Journal) magazine and new media company the Construction Network (tCn) issued its list of "the top 100 most influential architects using social media in the UK".
Stephen McGhee, a Partner with Lawrence McPherson Associates, has been placed 12th in the UK and is the highest placed Scottish architect on the list.
The top-ranked Twitter users were nominated by their peers using the social media website and scored by Peerindex on their 'authority, activity and audience' in the first ever top 100 of architects in the Twittersphere.
Stephen said "It's flattering to have been ranked so highly on the list as we have only been using twitter and facebook for a year. We have been able to reach more people than we would have utilising traditional marketing methods and it's a very good source of information if used correctly."
Stephen added "social media is only a part of our marketing strategy and we see it as a platform to increase awareness of the Practice. This goes hand in hand with our weekly enewsletter and our new architectural blog where we talk about issues relating to architecture and design".
Click here to see the whole Top 100 list as published by the architects journal.
Not to be outdone by the AJ, Building Design Magazine, another of the architectural heavy weight magazines, has themselves produced a top 10 list of the most influential architectural Practices using social media. Lawrence McPherson Associates have been ranked at 5th position.
Click here to view the Building Design list.
To find out more about our social media activity:
Click here for twitter
Click here for our facebook page
Click here to read our architectural blog.
Published: 01/07/2011
LMA ARCHITECTS : ARCHITECTURAL BLOG
Click here to read this week's blog; a look at an architect's view of customer feedback entitled "DO YOU REALLY WANT TO KNOW WHAT YOUR CLIENTS THINK OF YOU?" CAN YOU HANDLE THE TRUTH?
Please feel free to leave your comments on the blog.
Published: 30/06/2011
LMA STAFF TAKE UP ECO CHALLENGE
As part of implementation of Lawrence McPherson Associates environmental management system, the partners and staff, have taken up the challenge to reduce the carbon footprint of the business and the impact its operation has on the environment. The Practice has set itself a target of reducing its carbon footprint by 5% per annum.
The Practice currently has recycling procedures in place for its waste streams but the partners and staff are looking at alternative measures to cut CO2. These include a commitment to reduce car use by walking to work, car sharing or using public transport.
Some of the members of staff have gone even further. Our Technical Manager, John Douglas, has recently purchased a scooter. Not only is the scooter more environmentally friendly than his car but it fulfils a lifelong ambition to own a motorbike.
John utilises the scooter for his day to day activities and he even manages to use it for work; that's if he can fit work in between his fishing trips.
Published: 24/06/2011
LMA ARCHITECTS : ARCHITECTURAL BLOG
Published: 24/06/2011
NEW PREMIER INN AND TABLE TABLE RESTAURANT OPENS IN DALKEITH
The Premier Inn and Table Table Restaurant in Dalkeith, Midlothian, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, was completed this week. The 40 bed hotel, situated off Melville Dykes Road on the outskirts of the town, follows closely behind the completion of the Premier Inn and Beefeater Restaurant at Dumbarton and Premier Inn at Edinburgh Airport.
The development features one of Whitbread's newest Restaurant brands, Table Table, and opens its doors to the public this month.
The hotel and restaurant were built by Ogilvie Construction.
Completion of this development comes as works start on site of the Premier Inn and Beefeater restaurant in Newton Mearns. Click here for more information on the Newton Mearns development.
Click here for more information on some of the Practice's hotel developments.
Published: 17/06/2011
LMA ARCHITECTS : ARCHITECTURAL BLOG
Lawrence McPherson Associates have started an architectural blog, talking about current architectural issues affecting the profession and the construction industry.
Click here to read this week's piece on an architect's view of social media and the fight for twitter dominance by the UK's two largest architectural magazines.
Published: 17/06/2011
CONSTRUCTION WORK STARTS ON NEWTON MEARNS PREMIER INN
Works have started on the new Premier Inn and Brewers Fayre being built at Newton Mearns on the south side of Glasgow.
The 60 bed hotel, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, is situated off the M77 adjacent to the new retail park featuring one of the supermarket chain Waitrose's first stores in Scotland.
The 3 storey contemporary designed hotel and restaurant is being built by Ogilvie Construction and works are expected to complete by the end of the year.
This project is the one of a number of projects in Scotland for Whitbread, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, currently on site or in the design stages.
Click here for further information selected hotel projects.
Published: 13/06/2011
PLANNING SUBMITTED FOR 680 HOUSES AT NORTH EAST TROON
Lawrence McPherson Associates Planning Consultants have submitted a planning application in principle for a 680 house development at North East Troon for Stewart Milne Homes.
The application for the 43ha site was submitted following a statutory Pre Application Consultation exercise which involved a public exhibition which took place in Troon in December 2010. Comments from members of the public and interested parties were collated and considered prior to the submission of the formal planning application.
Lawrence McPherson Associates have acted as the Planning Consultants on this strategic housing development project for several years, during which the site has been allocated for development in the adopted South Ayrshire Local Plan.
Click here for more information.
Published: 03/06/2011
ARCHITECTS FLOAT MORE THAN IDEAS
The staff of Lawrence McPherson Associates took to the water last week for a kayak lesson.
Lead by Magda Swider, one of the Practice's project architects, sea kayak enthusiast and member of the Royal West of Scotland Amateur Boat Club in Greenock, the staff took to the waters of the Firth of Clyde.
The brave souls endured the cold but calm conditions at sea for their first attempt at the sport. Despite the slightly inclement conditions, everyone enjoyed the experience.
If you are interested in trying sea kayaking contact Magda on 01292 611727 for further details or visit the Royal West of Scotland Amateur Boat Club website at www.rwsabc.co.uk.
Published: 31/05/2011
AYRSHIRE HOUSING OPENS IT'S LATEST DEVELOPEMENT
Ayrshire Housing has opened a new development of affordable homes in the village of Tarbolton, Ayrshire. The development was officially opened this week by the Provost of South Ayrshire Council, councillor Winnie Sloan.
The £4m development, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, is a partnership between Ayrshire Housing and Ayrshire housebuilder, Hope Homes.
Councillor Winnie Sloan opened the new development and was delighted to welcome 18-year-old Ashleigh Ellis to her new home. Ashleigh benefits from a specially adapted house with space for her carers to assist her.
Provost Sloan said: "I'm proud have served on the board of Ayrshire Housing and indeed to help establish it. It's especially good to see locally based companies working together - something that should be encouraged wherever possible."
The development comprises eighteen four person and 12 six person houses which have been built for social rent include four which are designed for wheelchair users.
Ayrshire Housing's development was made possible by grants from the Scottish Government and South Ayrshire Council.
Click here for more information.
Published: 19/05/2011
BS EN ISO 14001
Lawrence McPherson Associates this week passed stage 1 of the external audit of its Environmental Management System for formal accreditation to BS EN 14001.
The audit, which was carried out by the BSI (British Standards Institute), is the first of two formal audits that the Practice will undergo.
ISO 14001 is an internationally accepted standard designed to address the delicate balance between maintaining profitability and reducing environmental impact.
The second audit is programmed to take place in 6 weeks time.
Published: 12/05/2011
WORKS START ON GLENROTHES PREMIER INN EXTENSION
Works have started on an extension to the Premier Inn at Glenrothes, Fife.
The 26 bedroom extension, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, is the first extension to the Premier Inn since the original hotel was built. The new bedroom wing will bring the total number of bedrooms to 64.
The 2 storey extension is being built by Ogilvie Construction and works are expected to complete in August of this year.
This project is the one of a number of projects in Scotland for Whitbread, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, currently on site or in the design stages.
Click here for further information selected hotel projects.
Published: 06/05/2011
PLANNING CONSENT GRANTED FOR NEW INTERMODAL RAILHEAD
Lawrence McPherson Associates has obtained planning consent for a new intermodal railhead at Grangestone, Girvan, South Ayrshire.
The proposed £3m development by Alisa Horizons Ltd, a community-owned social enterprise with chartiable recognition and the rural regeneration company for South Ayrshire, is located in the Grangestone Industrial Estate adjacent to the William Grant and Son distillery on the outskirts of Girvan.
The railhead will have the potential to make a significant difference in South Ayrshire, not only by reducing carbon emissions and removing thousands of lorry journeys off the roads but also in terms of helping to secure existing levels of employment at Grangestone and encouraging new businesses to locate in South Ayrshire. When complete, this would be the first ever community-owned freight facility in the UK.
Intermodal freight transport involves the transportation of freight in an intermodal container or vehicle, using multiple modes of transportation (rail, ship, and truck), without any handling of the freight itself when changing modes. The method reduces cargo handling, and so improves security, reduces damages and losses, and allows freight to be transported faster.
Published: 28/04/2011
WORKS START ON PORTLETHAN PREMIER INN EXTENSION
Works have started on the bedroom extension to the Premier Inn at Portlethan, Aberdeenshire.
The 30 bed extension, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, is the second extension by the practice to the Premier Inn since the origonal hotel was built. The new bedroom annexe will bring the total number of bedrooms to 92.
The 2 storey stand alone block is being built by Ogilvie Construction and works are expected to complete in September of this year.
This project is the one of a number of projects in Scotland for Whitbread, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, currently on site or in the design stages.
Click here for further information on our hotel projects.
Published: 22/04/2011
ARCHITECT IN THE HOUSE 2011
Lawrence McPherson Associates has signed up to support this years Architect in the House 2011 initiative to raise money for Shelter.
Architect in the House is an innovative scheme run by Shelter, the housing and homelessness charity, and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). We match homeowners with a local RIBA chartered architect who gives up an hour of their time for a design consultation. In exchange, the homeowner makes a suggested donation of £40 to Shelter. In 2011 the TV channel Home is title sponsor of the scheme, and Rockwool is associate sponsor.
Whether it's inspiration for a study, an extra bedroom, or just better living space you need, an architect can offer creativity and professional advice that will help bring your ideas to life.
Click here to sign up for a design consultation.
Published: 20/04/2011
NEW HOUSES OBTAIN CONSENT IN STEWARTON
Lawrence McPherson Associates Planning Consultants have been successful in obtaining planning permission for a 206 unit development at Dalry Road/Kilwinning Road, Stewarton for Stewart Milne Homes following the successful promotion of the 10 hectare site through the Local Plan process over a 5 year period.
Consent was granted after the submission of a detailed planning application in September 2010 following the statutory Pre Application Consultation exercise.
Lawrence McPherson Associates have been involved from the outset of this project and been a key member of the inter-disciplinary team which has brought the site to consent stage.
Stewart Milne Homes intend to commence work on site in late Spring/early Summer.
Published: 07/04/2011
WORKS START ON NEW HOTEL IN INVERNESS
Works started on site this week on another Whitbread hotel and restaurant development in Scotland. The £4m hotel and restaurant development, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, is situated on a prominent site on the A82 Inverness to Fort William road directly adjacent to the Caledonian Canal. This development is on the site of a derelict Victorian villa that had previously been in use as family run hotel.
The existing flat roofed, 2 storey, bedroom extension to rear of existing hotel will be demolished to allow a new single storey extension be developed as Beefeater restaurant; one of Whitbread's more well known restaurant brands. The façade of the existing building will be retained and the restaurant fitted out retaining the character of existing building with the existing cornices, woodwork and panelling replicated in the new construction.
In line with the aspiration of Highland Council's design guidance, to create a landmark building on the site, a contemporary design for the 4 storey, 76 bed, Premier Inn hotel was developed which is juxtaposed with the existing building. Copper cladding is used on the Premier Inn and a curved copper faced corridor links the new and old buildings, a material which is present in the existing building and acts to unify the different.
Completion of the development is programmed for February 2012.
The project is the one of a number of projects in Scotland for Whitbread, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, currently on site or in the design stages.
For more information click here.
Published: 01/04/2011
10 THINGS YOU DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT LAWRENCE MCPHERSON ASSOCIATES (OR WISHED YOU DIDN'T)
1. Our trainee architect studied forensic science at University before changing to studying architecture.
2. One of our male employees was a bra fitter in M&S.
3. The Practice has a hill walking club called the 'Happy Wanderers'.
4. Our offices are located in a former Salvation Army Church Hall commissioned and opened by William Booth, the founder of the Salvation Army.
5. Our technical manager is a TV star and has appeared in the TV programme 'Hooked on Fishing' with Paul Young not once but twice!
6. One of our senior technicians used to be a Building Control officer with a local authority.
7. We have designed over 5,500 hotel bedrooms.
8. We are a sporty bunch with the sports of golf, fishing, running, cycling, horse riding, kayaking, skiing, bowls, football, hill walking, rugby, curling, scuba diving and windsurfing enjoyed by the staff.
9. One of our female members of staff took a 3 month sabbatical last year to cycle through Tajikistan, Kurdistan and China on her own!
10. One of our Partners was a member of a team which held the Guinness World Record for the longest game of curling (33hrs!).
Published: 01/04/2011
PRACTICE HAS ANOTHER REASON TO KEEP SMILING
Sandgate Dentistry has opened its doors to its patients after a successful relocation from their former first floor premises to a prime street frontage site.
The dental Practice purchased a former bed store shop unit in Ayr's historic Sandgate and with the assistance of Lawrence McPherson Associates transformed the former shop unit into a spacious state of the art dental surgery.
The surgery provides 4 spacious new surgeries, waiting room and reception as well as providing DDA compliant access and facilities for its patients directly of the street. The surgeries are designed to treat wheelchair bound patients in each surgery directly from their wheelchairs.
The surgery is fitted with a SHPN13 compliant decontamination suite which all dental surgeries in Scotland will require to have installed by January 2012. Provision for future advances in dental treatment and its integration with IT have been made to ensure that advances in new dental technologies can be easily accommodated.
Architectural Partner, Stephen McGhee, stated "The Practice are delighted to have assisted Sandgate Dentistry with the relocation of their premises and we are delighted at the outcome. A conscious effort has been made to ensure that natural light penetrates into the building with the surgeries having internal opaque double glazed windows to allow borrowed light deep within the building plan."
"Many dentists are facing difficult decisions with regard to the provision of decontamination units by Jan 2012 with most dental practices not having sufficient space to accommodate an LDU within their existing premises."
"Dental Practices like Sandgate Dentistry have taken the opportunity to relocate to larger off street premises which can accommodate an LDU and meet their requirements under DDA legislation. Currently, many retail units are lying empty and provide a perfect fit for dental practices whilst allowing them to remain within town centres close to their existing premises."
Sandgate Dentistry is one of a number of dental surgeries designed by the Practice either under construction or in the design stages and the second surgery to be completed this year.
Lawrence McPherson Associates are a Health Facilities Scotland approved consultant to provide design and installation advice for dentists on the requirements for them to have a Local Decontamination Unit (LDU) installed and operational in their premises.
For further information contact our Stephen McGhee who heads our Healthcare Team.
Published: 10/03/2011
WORK TO EDINBURGH AIRPORT PREMIER INN COMPLETES
Edinburgh Airport Premier Inn designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates was completed this week. The 119 bed hotel situated at Newbridge near Edinburgh Airport in a prime location on the newly developed Axis Business Park directly adjacent to the A90 follows close on the heels of the completion of the Premier Inn at Dumbarton.
This Premier Inn is part of the 'solus' range of Whitbread's hotels and is a departure from the traditional aesthetic from the standard Premier Inn brand where bespoke designs are developed for each individual site in locations like city centres and those adjacent to airports.
The Premier Inn, constructed by Ogilvie Construction, features a Thyme restaurant and opens its doors to the pubic this month.
For more information click here.
Published: 04/03/2011
WORKS START ON HOTEL IN EDINBURGH
Site works started this week on Whitbread's newest hotel and restaurant development in Scotland. The development, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, comprises a 120 bed Premier Inn, 'Thyme' Restaurant and a Costa Coffee shop located in Edinburgh Park which is situated to the west of the city.
The original masterplan for the park was designed by renowned architect Richard Meier who created a grid-like system of wide tree-lined boulevards, set in landscaped surroundings.
Completion of the development is programmed for February 2012.
The project is the one of a number of projects in Scotland for Whitbread, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, currently on site or in the design stages.
For more information click here.
Published: 25/02/2011
CARE HOME SUBMITTED FOR PLANNING
Lawrence McPherson Associates have submitted a scheme for planning consent for the redevelopment of Dean House residential home in Kilmarnock, Ayrshire.
The extension doubles the size of the existing home and provides new single room accommodation with en-suite facilities as well as providing new dining and day room facilities.
The £1.5m redevelopment will provide accommodation in compliance with the standards set out by the Care Commission and provides services to allow the operator to care for residents with dementia.
Construction works are scheduled to begin in the summer of 2011.
Published: 18/02/2011
NEW DENTAL SURGERY OPENS FOR BUSINESS
The K.ayr Dental surgery, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, has opened its doors to patients. The surgery, which is located in Ayr, provides new surgeries as well as providing DDA compliant access and facilities for its patients. The surgery has also been fitted with a SHPN13 compliant decontamination suite which all dental surgeries in Scotland will require to have installed by January 2012.
K.ayr Dental is one of a number of dental surgeries designed by the Practice either under construction or in the design stages.
Lawrence McPherson Associates are a Health Facilities Scotland approved consultant to provide design and installation advice for dentists on the requirements for them to have a Local Decontamination Unit (LDU) installed and operational in thier premises.
Published: 10/02/2011
PRACTICE GETS PASS MARKS FROM THE BSI
Lawrence McPherson Associates ISO 9001 accredited Quality Management System passed its first annual reassessment this week. The audit, which was carried out by the British Standards Institute, is the first reassessment of the Quality Management system since the Practice attained ISO 9001accreditation.
Architectural partner, Stephen McGhee, said "We are delighted that the BSI has given their re-approval of our Quality Management System. Praise has to be given to the staff of Lawrence McPherson Associates who have taken up the challenge of improving the quality of service we provide to our clients and the continued approval of our QMS to the standard is testament to the hard work put in by everyone."
He further added "this approval comes at an exciting time for the Practice as we build on the success of ISO 9001 and look forward to formal assessment of the Practice's Environmental Management System against the ISO 14001 standard in May of this year".
Published: 09/02/2011
NEW HOTEL AND RESTAURANT OPENS IN DUMBARTON
Whitbread's newest hotel and restaurant development in Scotland opened its doors to the public this week. The development, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, comprises a Brewers Fayre Restaurant and 60 bed Premier Inn adjacent to the A80 in Dumbarton.
The project is the one of a number of projects in Scotland for Whitbread, designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates, currently on site or in the design stages.
Published: 28/01/2011
PLANNING APPLICATION LODGED FOR INTERMODAL RAILHEAD
Lawrence McPherson Associates has submitted a planning application for a new intermodal railhead at Grangestone, Girvan, South Ayrshire.
The proposed £8m development by Alisa Horizons Ltd, a community-owned social enterprise, is located in the Grangestone Industrial Estate adjacent to the William Grant and Son distillery on the outskirts of Girvan.
The railhead will have the potential to make a significant difference in South Ayrshire, not only by reducing carbon emissions and removing thousands of lorry journeys off the roads but also in terms of helping to secure existing levels of employment at Grangestone and encouraging new businesses to locate in South Ayrshire.
The proposal is unique in the UK since it will be the first time that a community-owned social enterprise has been involved in a rail freight business. It is anticipated that the profits will be fed back into the wider regeneration work across rural South Ayrshire.
The railhead was subject of debate last week in the Scottish Parliament when Carrick Cumnock and Doon Valley MSP, Cathy Jamieson, tabled the motion for debate where all five parties voiced their support for the proposal.
For more information on the project and Ailsa Horizon click here.
Published: 17/01/2011
SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES : ARE YOU MISSING THE POINT?
Are you someone who thinks that social networking is something that people do in their spare time and for those who are interested in small talk and what others do? Who cares what new hairdo someone has just had?
Well consider these facts. It took 38 years for radio broadcasters to reach 50 million listeners but Facebook reached 100 million in nine months. Facebook has already reached 500 million users world wide and only has been in existence for 4 years.
Facebook also knows more about its users than any other organisation in the world. It knows your sex, your age, your buying preferences, your religious beliefs and when and where you drink or eat out.
Company pages in Facebook are a great way for businesses to start conversations with existing and would be customers but more importantly Facebook advertising provides a very targeted, very measurable and very cost effective tool that can help them connect with potential customers very easily and very cheaply.
Still have the same opinion of social networking sites? Can you or your business afford to miss the social network revolution?
Visit our Facebook and Twitter pages and keep up to date with regular news about the Practice and general news items related to architecture and construction.
To follow us on facebook click here.
To follow us on twitter click here.
Published: 15/01/2011
FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER
Visit our new facebook and twitter pages and keep up to date with regular news about the Practice and general news items related to architecture and construction.
To follow us on facebook click here.
To follow us on twitter click here.
Published: 10/01/2011
PUBLIC EXHIBITION FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT AT BARASSIE
A public exhibition took place in Troon on the 8th and 9th December 2010 in connection with a proposed residential development of 680 houses at Barassie, North East Troon. The exhibition was part of the Pre Application Consultation exercise being carried out in relation to a forthcoming application for Planning Permission in Principle for the proposed development which is a joint venture involving Stewart Milne Homes and Lynch Homes.
Lawrence McPherson Associates have acted as the Planning Consultants on this strategic housing development project for several years, during which the site has been allocated for development in the adopted South Ayrshire Local Plan.
Comments from members of the public and interested parties will be collated and considered prior to the submission of the formal planning application in 2011.
Published: 16/12/2010
SMILES FOR PRACTICE AFTER DENTAL APPROVAL
Lawrence McPherson Associates have been selected for inclusion on Health Facilities Scotland (HFS) approved list of consultants to provide design and installation advice for dentists on the requirements for every dental practice in Scotland to have a Local Decontamination Unit (LDU) installed in every premises.
This approval by HFS complements the range of services the Practice provides and is a further extension of the inclusion of the Practice as an approved consultant on HFS's Frameworks Scotland Initiative to deliver Healthcare Buildings in Scotland.
The Practice has recently completed a dental facility as part of the new Patna Health Centre project for NHS Ayrshire and Arran which included a Gold Standard LDU and completed new dental surgeries as part of the refurbishment and upgrade of Ayrshire Central Hospital where a fully accessible dental surgery was provided which includes an adjustable platform to treat wheelchair bound patients directly in their chairs.
The Practice has also completed the successful relocation of several dental practices to new fully accessible state of the art dental surgeries which include fully compliance decontamination facilities.
Stephen McGhee, Architectural Partner, stated "We are delighted to have been included as an approved consultant on HFS's approved list. This allows us to expand the range and quality of services we provide to our clients".
He further added "The provision of an LDU is a massive undertaking for dentists and most premises will not allow the installation of an LDU without an extension or alteration. Quite a few dental Practices are taking advantage of the legislation and available grant aid to relocate to larger premises and providing improved facilities for their patients as well as meeting their requirements to provide decontamination facilities".
Published: 10/12/2010
MINISTER WELCOMES NEW HOUSING FOR RENT AND SALE IN AYRSHIRE VILLAGE
Alex Neil, Minister for Housing and Communities has launched a major new housing development in the Ayrshire village of Tarbolton.
The project is being taken forward by Hope Homes in partnership with Ayrshire Housing. On completion, 126 houses will have been built for sale and 30 for affordable rent.
The 30 houses for rent have been designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates to both meet Ayrshire Housing's own requirements and to be integrated with Hope Homes' planning scheme. On completion early next year, 18 four person and 12 six person houses will be available for let. 4 of the six person houses are especially suited to wheelchair users.
Mr Neil said: I'm pleased that the Government has been able to use its support for the affordable element and to provide much needed new homes to the village and with it local construction jobs."
Pearl Boyd, Ayrshire Housing's vice chair welcomed the continued support of the Council for her Board's efforts to bring much needed new housing to Ayrshire's villages.
Mr Neil has previously announced that an extra £1.5m will be released this year to Ayrshire's network of housing associations. This is on top of more support for the new Council house building.
Published: 03/12/2010
LAWRENCE MCPHERSON ASSOCIATES LAUNCH NEW WEB SITE
Lawrence McPherson are pleased to announce the launch of thier new website.
The new site show cases the Practices recently completed projects in the healthcare, social housing and hotel sectors.
Vist our new site at www.lawrencemcphersonarchitects.co.uk
Published: 17/11/2010
LAWRENCE MCPHERSON ASSOCIATES CHOSEN TO DESIGN NEW FLAGSHIP COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
Lawrence McPherson Associates has won a significant new contract to design the new £36m hospital at the Ayrshire Central Hospital site in Irvine.
The Ayr-based Architectural Practice forms part of the RD Health Consortium, which has been selected as principal supply chain partner for the flagship development for NHS Ayrshire and Arran.
Working with Dawn Construction and Robertson Construction, Lawrence McPherson Associates will develop a blueprint for the hospital which will include a new Mental Health inpatient facility and community hospital.
Construction work is expected to begin in 2013, once the final plans have been agreed by the NHS.
Stephen McGhee, Partner with Lawrence McPherson Associates said: "This is a very significant contract for the Practice and something that we have been working towards for a very long time.
"Not only will it allow us to continue to expand and grow the range of services we offer as a business at a time when many architectural firms are struggling for survival, but it will enable us to be part of a really historic, groundbreaking project which will make such a big difference to the lives of people in Ayrshire.
"Having the opportunity to work on replacing ageing buildings with a terrific, purpose-built, patient-centred facility in your own community is an incredible honour and we are very much looking forward to seeing it come out of the ground."
Facilities provided by the new hospital will offer additional community based facilities: elderly mental health services, community addiction services, child and adolescent mental health services and psychology services.
Published: 03/09/2010
PRACTICE ATTAINS ISO 9001 ACCREDITATION
Lawrence McPherson Associates are delighted to announce that during 2010 they attained ISO 9001:2008 accreditation from the British Standards Institute.
Architectural Partner, Stephen McGhee, stated "We are delighted to have our Quality Management System accredited by the BSI. A lot of hard work and effort went into the development of the Quality Management System and we are delighted for this to be recognised."
Stephen further added that "We see this accreditation as an important part of our commitment to improve the service we provide to our clients and another step in our commitment to continual improvement.
"This is the first step in the formalisation of all of our procedures with formal accreditation of our Environmental Management System to ISO 14001 in 2011 being our next target."
Published: 17/08/2010
ARCHITECTS RENEW FOOTBALL SPONSORSHIP
Prestwick Football Club Under-10's team has netted a further years sponsorship deal with local architectural Practice Lawrence McPherson Associates.
The Practice provided the team with new strips for their second season.
Stephen McGhee, Partner, said: "It was a real pleasure for us to be able to get further involved as a Practice and to provide support for Prestwick FC. Being based in Ayrshire, it gives us an opportunity to be able to give something back to the local community in which we work."
Bryan Mulgrew, team coach, said: "This is our second season and we are delighted to have Lawrence McPherson Associates renew thier sponsorship".
Published: 07/07/2010
UPGRADED SNOW SPORTS CENTRE GETS GO AHEAD
East Ayrshire Council has granted planning consent for two new dry ski slopes and a new community clubhouse designed by architects Lawrence McPherson Associates, to replace the existing 1970's complex on the slopes to the North of the town's High Street.
The original ski slope will be replaced by a 115 metre long adult ski slope and a 30 metre nursery slope. A new community clubhouse with a cafe, gym, changing rooms, conference and ski hire facilities will also be provided.
In addition to snow sports and associated activities the community clubhouse will be used to deliver a wide range of activities and services to meet the needs of the local and wider community.
Bobby Pollock, chairman of the Newmilns Snow and Sports Complex (NSASC), the charity which runs the slope, believes that the complex could be one of the best ski and activity centres in Scotland if the funding bid for the project is successful.
The Board of NSASC has put together a grant submission for the Big Lottery Fund and is talking to a number of private investors to raise the £2.9m required to build the complex. The scheme has already received £150,000 from the Big Lottery Fund to draw up the ambitious plans.
If the overall funding bid is successful, building work on the complex is likely to start next autumn.
Bobby said: "Ski-ing has been part of life in the Irvine Valley since the ski slope was built in 1975 and we feel it is vitally important that people in the South West of Scotland continue to have the opportunity to participate in snow sports.
"The new slopes have been designed to offer facilities not just for beginners but also for more advanced ski-ers. We believe that the new, improved facility will increase the number of users significantly."
Jim McGinlay, Associate with Lawrence McPherson Associates, said: "This project has been fantastic to work on partly because of the enthusiasm of Bobby Pollock and the rest of the Board who have worked tirelessly for nine years to get this important community development off the ground.
"The centre has suffered from a lack of investment for many years and it would be great for the local community to see it redeveloped to provide an important sporting facility in the area, which will attract a new generation of winter sports enthusiasts."
Founded in 1994, Lawrence McPherson Associates is celebrating its fifteenth year in business. The company has grown by significantly over the past five years thanks to major clients like Whitbread plc, NHS Ayrshire and Arran, Shire Housing Association, Ayrshire Housing and Stewart Milne Holdings.
The Practice enjoys Investors in People status and positively encourages and facilitates the attainment of additional skills and qualifications by members of staff. The Practice is also currently recruiting staff for its development programme and encourages fresh talent to join the firm during this period of expansion.
Published: 20/10/2009
PROMOTION FOR SENIOR ARCHITECT
Jim McGinlay has been promoted to Associate with architectural practice, Lawrence McPherson Associates.
Senior architect Jim (42) joined the Practice last year and has made a big impression on the management team and clients since his arrival.
Euan Lawrence, Partner with Lawrence McPherson Associates, said: "Jim is an incredibly hardworking individual and a much valued member of the team. His drive, enthusiasm and talent have played an important role in the performance of the Practice over the past 12 months.
"We have been in a fortunate position that our business has continued to expand despite the downturn in the construction industry and 2009, which is our fifteenth anniversary year, looks set to be one of our most successful yet."
Earlier in the year the Practice was selected to join the Health Facilities Scotland Framework to help build new NHS facilities throughout Scotland. The Practice, which has offices in Ayr and Musselburgh, forms part of the RD Health Consortium which has been selected as principal supply chain partner to deliver a major new community and mental health hospital in Irvine, Ayrshire.
Jim, a graduate of the Mackintosh School of Architecture in Glasgow, said: "Since joining Lawrence McPherson Associates in 2008, the workload has been intense with commissions in the health, leisure, industrial and sports sectors which is a tremendous achievement given the current economic position.
"It is a real joy to work with such a progressive, highly dedicated and friendly Practice, so when I was offered the position of Associate I was absolutely delighted to accept."
Published: 29/09/2009
HOME SWEET HOME FOR RESIDENTS AT CESSNOCK GARDENS
The £2.7m development, by Shire Housing was designed by architectural practice Lawrence McPherson Associates. It features 26 amenity houses built round an attractive secure courtyard.
This is the first major project under a framework agreement, which will see the company help roll-out Shire's new build programme in East Ayrshire over the next 3 years.
The homes are being built in partnership with East Ayrshire Council and the Housing Investment Division. The development incorporates, as a centrepiece, a sensory garden designed by pupils from Hurlford Primary School.
Stephen McGhee, Partner with Lawrence McPherson Associates, said: "It is great to see residents in their new homes and the project finished ahead of schedule. The development has been designed to provide a safe and secure environment for older people who aren't ready to go into sheltered housing but want an added comfort factor."
Christie Bain (Head of Development & Contracts) of Shire Housing Association said: "We see an ongoing need for this type of specialised accommodation. The integrational work proved to be a real pleasure.'
The single storey one and two bedroom homes, designed around a secure landscaped courtyard, are designed to be flexible to the residents current and potential future care needs. The development also includes 4 fully accessible wheelchair homes.
The opening of Cessnock Gardens comes just months after the final residents moved into another Shire development of 47 mainstream homes at Kings Way in Cumnock, also designed by Lawrence McPherson Associates.
Shire Housing Association Ltd was formed in March 1997 as a result of the transfer of some 1100 houses from Scottish Homes to the Association's ownership.
The organisation operates within East Ayrshire and provides a wide range of customers across East Ayrshire.
A not-for-profit organisation, Shire Housing Association is run by a voluntary board of up to 15 people that includes tenants, owner occupiers and a number of other interested volunteers who bring a variety of specialist experience to the board.
Published: 14/09/2009
WELCOME MAT IS LAID OUT FOR NEW RESIDENTS
The £4.5m social housing development of 47 three and four bedroom houses and two bedroom apartments will provide vital high quality affordable accommodation in the neighbourhood.
Stephen McGhee, partner of Lawrence McPherson Associates who worked closely with the local community during the project, said: "This was quite a challenging project technically as the land sloped dramatically and we had to work around existing sewers and a water main. Moreover, the new homes are built close to privately owned neighbouring properties. The residents of the neighbouring houses were actively involved in the design process and through the formation of a steering group, helped shape the final design of the development."
Kings Way is one of a number of projects Lawrence McPherson Associates has been working on for Shire Housing Association. Under a framework agreement, Lawrence McPherson Associates will help roll-out Shire's development programme in East Ayrshire over the next four years.
The company is also close to completing work at Cessnock Gardens, a new £2.7m amenity housing complex in Hurlford Ayrshire, again designed by the Practice. The development will feature 26 secure retirement homes built round an attractive courtyard garden area.
These include two bedroom single storey houses and four wheelchair standard properties. Shire Housing Association Ltd was formed in March 1997 as a result of the transfer of some 1100 houses from Scottish Homes to the Association's ownership. The organisation operates within East Ayrshire and provides a wide range of services to customers across East Ayrshire.
A not-for-profit organisation, Shire Housing Association is run by a voluntary board of up to 15 people that includes tenants, owner occupiers and a number of other interested volunteers who bring a variety of specialist experience to the board.
Published: 11/09/2009
ARCHITECTURAL FIRM HAS DESIGNS ON FURTHER GROWTH
Susan is the second new senior architect to join the company in the last two months at a time when most companies have put a freeze on recruitment or are shedding staff.
A graduate of Heriott Watt and Strathclyde Universities in Advanced Architectural Design, Susan (34) is a former Associate with RPP Partnership in Belfast and Dublin where she specialised in designing homes for social housing organisations like the award-winning Clanmil Housing Association and private house builders including Paton Homes.
Stephen McGhee, Partner with Lawrence McPherson Associates, said: "Susan is a very experienced architect and we are delighted to have her join the practice. She will make a valuable addition to our senior management team.
"Despite the current economic climate we are in the very privileged position of being able to continue to expand the business as a result of new contract wins from the healthcare and public sectors in recent months."
Susan, who is married with an 18 month old daughter, is a keen mountain biker and yoga devotee in her spare time.
Founded in 1994, Lawrence McPherson Associates has grown significantly in recent years with an existing staff of 25 people. The Practice is the biggest architectural and town planning Practice in Ayrshire. The Musselburgh office is located in a historic former mill building at Eskmills.
The company was recently selected for a framework agreement with NHS Ayrshire & Arran, which could see the company working on several multi-million pound building projects a year.
Published: 21/11/2008
FRAMEWORK WIN FOR LAWRENCE MCPHERSON ASSOCIATES
Architects Lawrence McPherson Associates have been selected for a framework agreement with NHS Ayrshire & Arran, which could see the company working on several multi-million building projects a year.
The Ayr-headquartered Practice has been selected from a shortlist of six architects as the preferred bidder for new build contracts in two categories with values up to £3m.
The company also came second in the refurbishment part of the framework agreement for projects up to £1m.
The framework agreement is initially for two years but could be extended to four years. It is part of a national shake up of the way public sector contracts are procured within the healthcare sector.
Stuart McPherson, Partner with Lawrence McPherson Associates, said: "It is great to have been selected for this framework agreement and to have an opportunity to work closely with our local health authority. In the past we have worked on major NHS projects in the North of England but ironically we have never had a chance to work in this sector in our own area.
"We have worked very hard over the past six months on putting together our proposal for the framework agreement and this win will play an important role in the continued growth of the business."
The team's first projects for NHS Ayrshire & Arran include the design of the £2m Patna Health Centre, a £2m project to build a new kitchen and dining facility at Ayrshire Central Hospital and a £2m training facility also at Ayrshire Central Hospital.
It is also working on the first phase of a £2.7m refurbishment of Ayrshire Central Hospital, replacing the roof, windows and render of an A-listed building.
Published: 02/10/2008
ARCHITECTS LAND PRESTIGIOUS SOCIAL HOUSING CONTRACT
Architectural Practice Lawrence McPherson Associates has been selected for a framework agreement with Shire Housing Association.
The Ayr-headquartered company is leading one of two design teams which will roll-out Shire's new build programme in East Ayrshire over the next four years.
The Practice submitted a joint proposal with cost consultants Neilson Binnie-McKenzie and engineering firm URS to provide design services for Shire, which could see them working on £7m worth of projects.
The team's first project for Shire is to build a new £2.5m retirement complex at Cessnock Gardens in Hurlford in Ayrshire. It has submitted plans to East Ayrshire Council for 26 secure retirement homes built round an attractive courtyard garden area.
The development will include single and two bedroom single storey houses and four wheelchair standard properties. Construction work is scheduled to start in April pending receipt of planning permission.
Stephen McGhee, Partner with Lawrence McPherson Associates, said: "It is great to have been chosen for this framework agreement with Shire Housing Association particularly when we were competing against more than 20 other design teams at the initial stages of the bid.We can now build on the relationship that we have built up over the last two years.
"The Cessnock Gardens project is a challenging way to start the development programme as retirement complex housing is a bit different from other forms of social housing as it is aimed at older people who are not ready for sheltered housing but want to feel they are living in a safe and secure environment.The development programme is extremely tight and in order to meet the timescales set, McTaggart Construction was brought into the project team from the outset to negotiate the construction works."
Lawrence McPherson Associates is looking at highly insulating the houses in an attempt to drastically reduce fuel bills for residents and is also looking at installing heating systems powered from renewable energy resources to reduce the impact on the environment and to meet Shire Housing Association's aspirations to reduce their carbon footprint.
The company has been working with Shire on a project-to-project basis for the last two years and is currently on site with a development of 47 mainstream homes at Kings Way in Cumnock.
Shire Housing Association Ltd was formed in March 1997 as a result of the transfer of some 1100 houses from Scottish Homes to the Association's ownership.
The organisation operates within East Ayrshire and provides a wide range of customers across East Ayrshire.
A not for profit organisation, Shire Housing Association is run by a voluntary board of up to 15 people that includes tenants, owner occupiers and a number of other interested volunteers who bring a variety of specialist experience to the board.
Published: 25/01/2008
