“Never Do Anything You Know is Going to Work”

Alistair has decided to lay down his Rock Townsend red pen and trusty scale rule to retire to Cornwall and this week the office held a soiree to mark the occasion.  Joining the RT team were early Rock Townsend pioneers David Rock, Charles Thomson and Dan O’Neill and the Hay family. In amongst the formalities, some of Al’s unique interview techniques were re-lived alongside the stories, images, bon mots and ‘alistair-isms’ that have made him such a unique character with whom to work.

Good Luck with Plan B Alistair!

(With extra thanks to all those past colleagues, clients and collaborators who contributed to his book)

Richard III

A big welcome to our latest addition to the team, Richard Watson. Being the third Richard in the office he has a lot to live up to, but so far he has made a great impression with the housing team. He has recently been working on schemes for several sites in Hertfordshire, as well as being the newest member of lunch club.

An RT Christmas...

While the rest of the RT team were enjoying a delicious lunch at Gordon Ramsay's Union Street Cafe, 'The Richards' decided to treat themselves to a chicken shop Christmas. I hope you had a great time guys ...

Martini drinking Martina ...

A big welcome to Martina who is RT's new Part 2 and has been doing a great job working on both a masterplan and the HLR schools.

Rock Townsend appointed to Network's Architects Framework

Congratulations to Network Housing Group on the finalisation of their new Architects Framework. Rock Townsend are among 17 practices who have been appointed to the four year framework for the London Housing Association.  Network Housing Group is one of the largest housing associations in London and the South East, managing 19,300 homes across 36 local authorities. The group has plans to build 3,500 new homes over the next 5 years.  Vicky Savage, Group Development Director, said:

“I am delighted with the high calibre of firms who have successfully made our framework. I am confident the firms will work closely with us to produce outstanding award winning designs which our customers will feel proud to live in."

Rock Townsend are delighted with the appointment and look forward to working with Network to support them in their aim to deliver great places to live.

For further info, please see Building Design & Network's website.

Fab Phoebe ...

Phoebe has been with the RT team for a few months now and is currently doing a great job on the Leeds Special Schools which are currently under construction.

Brynn Mill receives Planning Approval

Rock Townsend's scheme for the restoration of a Grade II listed Mill and modern pavilion house near Rock in Cornwall has been approved by the Parish Council. Brynn Mill and Cottage was once a corn mill and dates from approximately 1810. Forming part of the wider restoration of the farmland and a new house, the two storey mill and cottage are to be restored using the traditional building methodology found on site.

Rock Townsend wins place on Circle Housing's £25m Architects Framework Agreement

Rock Townsend has been selected for a major new framework for one of the country’s largest affordable housing providers.

Philip Browne, Group Development Director said: “At Circle Housing, we are stepping up our development programme over the next few years and the winning firms will play a key role in helping us to deliver our plans. We are open for business and currently have a £40million revolving land fund that we are looking to invest across the full range of tenures to build our future programme.

“We are pleased with the mix of expertise and calibre of the panel and the major benefit of this new updated framework for us is that homes can be built more quickly.”

Rock Townsend is appointed to the South East and East of England Lots.

Triumphant Trio!

A huge congratulations to Charlotte Tamplin, James Ford and Tim Robinson who completed their RIBA Part III studies and are now fully qualified architects! Watch out world...