Author: Marion Clapp

Cheten and Richard will be attending UK REiiF and we would love to connect with others who are going. If you’re attending, please drop us a message or come and say hello. One session we’re especially looking forward to: Cheten will be on the panel for SLR Consulting’s “Built to Forget: Where’s the Care in Retirement Living?” on Wednesday, 1:00–2:00pm. This expert panel will explore why design, policy and investment must recognise the realities of ageing and treat care as essential infrastructure. Hope to see you there. #UKREiiF #Leeds #RetirementLiving #LaterLiving #SocialInfrastructure #Care #Design #Policy #Investment #BuiltEnvironment #RealEstate

During a recent visit to our Thornley site in County Durham, Matt saw first-hand how innovation has been embedded into the delivery of this seven-home scheme. Working alongside JT Consultancy, a standout feature of the project has been the deployment of a robotic blocklaying system on a live construction site - moving beyond controlled trials and into day-to-day delivery. Using digital setting-out data and precision control, the robot places blocks accurately to line and level on long, repeatable runs of masonry. By taking on the most repetitive aspects of block placement, the technology supports skilled bricklayers on site - reducing manual handling, minimising fatigue, and helping to maintain consistent quality at pace. What makes this approach especially innovative is not only the technology itself, but how it has been integrated into a real construction programme - safely, practically, and alongside the workforce on site. The Thornley project reflects how we are pushing the boundaries of traditional construction, using automation and cross-sector learning to tackle productivity challenges, respond to skills shortages, and strengthen build quality. By combining architectural expertise with emerging construction technologies, we’re helping redefine how homes can be delivered with greater certainty, efficiency, and safety—while still valuing the human skill that underpins great workmanship. The new homes are now complete and look fantastic. The quality of workmanship and the pace of progress throughout are a real credit to everyone involved. The team’s dedication, attention to detail, and commitment to programme targets ensured the project was delivered on time. We’re proud to see these homes ready to welcome residents and support a thriving new community in Thornley. #RIBA #Architecture #Construction #ResidentialDevelopment #Housing #Innovation #Robotics #ModernMethodsOfConstruction #Architecture #BuiltEnvironment #UKConstruction

We were delighted to welcome Gabriel to Boast Architects for four days of work experience, completed over four weeks. Gabriel is a T Level student at Oaklands College, and his placement formed part of a programme organised by Norma Odain-Hines at Morgan Sindall Construction. This opportunity added real value to Gabriel’s learning journey, giving him hands-on insight into an architectural practice and helping build his confidence, professional skills, and independence. During his time with us, Gabriel took part in a small design project where he developed a brief, carried out research, and designed an outbuilding using a range of drawing and presentation methods. Gabriel was enthusiastic, polite and professional throughout. We expect he will do very well in his future career, and we’re proud to have supported him through this placement. Thank you to Oaklands College and to Morgan Sindall for making this opportunity possible and to Gabriel for bringing such a positive attitude to our design studio. #WorkExperience #TLevels #OaklandsCollege #Architecture #Architects #BoastArchitects #MorganSindall #Skills #FutureTalent #Education

We recently joined RIBA East Region, Herts Assoc of Architects, and Beds Assoc of Architects for a fantastic co‑working day at the University of Hertfordshire. It was brilliant to engage with so many local architects and reconnect across our regional network. A real highlight was the unexpected tour of the university’s artworks and sculptures — who knew there was an art gallery on campus? We also had the chance to meet students and enjoy five inspiring presentations, all showcasing impressive creativity, innovation, and fresh thinking. We were also pleased to share the news that Richard Tavener is the new Chair of the Bedfordshire Association of Architects, opening a conversation about the organisation’s direction and inviting ideas from members about what they’d like to see going forward. Events like this are a great opportunity to come together, strengthen collaboration, and celebrate the talent within our region. We’re already looking forward to the next meet‑up on 15th May — watch this space for more updates! #RIBAEast #HertsAssociationOfArchitects #BedsAssociationOfArchitects #ArchitectureCommunity #LocalArchitects #HertsUni #Networking #Collaboration #RDTArchitects #BAA #ArchitecturalPractice #DesignInnovation

We are delighted to recognise Matt Moore as this month’s star award winner! Presented by Lauren Briggs, this award highlights outstanding staff achievements across the practice. Matt received the award for his hard work and excellent management of his live projects — always maintaining a calm, professional approach even under pressure.  His dedication and consistency make a real difference to the team. Well done, Matt! 👏 #BoastArchitects #TeamRecognition #StaffAchievement #MonthlyAward #Congratulations #RDTArchitects #ProudTeam #GoingAboveAndBeyond

Last Thursday’s Herts & Beds Constructing Excellence Club event was a fantastic opportunity for us to connect, learn and be inspired. The presentations from Willmott Dixon and SCAPE were excellent - packed with insight, forward-thinking approaches and genuinely valuable takeaways for our industry. It was great to see such a strong turnout and so many familiar faces across the Herts & Beds Constructing Excellence Club community. We were especially pleased to see local students joining the event from University of Hertfordshire. Encouraging the next generation into the built environment is something we’re passionate about, and it was brilliant to witness their enthusiasm. The AGM also offered a clear view of what’s ahead for HBCEC - lots to look forward to in the coming year. A huge thank you to everyone involved for hosting such an engaging and thought‑provoking event. #RDTArchitects #BoastArchitects #HBCEC #ConstructionCommunity #WillmottDixon #Scape #BuiltEnvironment #HertsAndBeds #Collaboration

It was great to see the progress on site at the Highcroft Development when Matt recently visited for a site meeting.  Phases 1–3 are already completed, and Boast Architects have been appointed by St. Joseph Homes to progress Phase 4, supporting the next stage of this exciting scheme. The team is currently developing the detailed design for a range of house types across 107 residential dwellings on this key site in South Oxfordshire. The scheme will deliver a high‑quality, traditionally styled development, thoughtfully designed around its setting. Set alongside 2.2 acres of new sports pitches, the proposals also include a children’s play area, allotments, a new on‑site primary school, and a network of open green spaces and nature trails. Strong landscape-led design and clear, safe routes will provide accessible recreation spaces, all within walking distance of Wallingford town centre. It’s always rewarding to see projects start to take shape on site and to watch collaborative teams work together to move them forward. #Construction #Architecture #OnSite #ProjectProgress #ResidentialDevelopment #BuiltEnvironment #DesignAndDelivery #UKConstruction #BoastArchitects #Highcroft #StJosephs #Wallingford #Oxfordshire

We are delighted to share that our CEO, Richard Tavener has been appointed Chairman of the Bedfordshire Association of Architects. Richard is well known across the region for his thoughtful, community-minded approach to practice, working from his studio in Luton with local clients on residential and community projects that are making a real difference to the area. He also brings a strong track record of professional leadership, having previously served as Chair of RIBA East, and currently Chair of Herts & Beds Constructing Excellence Club. Wishing Richard every success in the role - an exciting new chapter for Bedfordshire‘s architectural community. Please reach out if you would like to get involved on the BAA Committee – email marion@rdtarchitects.co.uk. #Bedford #Architecture #BuiltEnvironment #Community #RIBA #RIBAEast #Beds #Luton #Stevenage

The challenge for contractors is to maintain programme certainty, navigate onsite realities and implement design information, which is made more difficult if the information isn’t co-ordinated or risks aren’t identified early. At Boast Architects we provide clear, co-ordinated technical design and information that considers real site conditions. Our rigorous reviews highlight risks early, and our responsive problem solving approach during construction ensures challenges are solved quickly and effectively. Whether stepping in at Stage 4 or refining an inherited design, we work collaboratively to maintain vision while enabling efficient, confident delivery on site. Our goals are simple: working in collaboration increases the opportunity for the projects to be built efficiently and safely. By problem solving complexities before they reach site, we support cost certainty, reduce disruption, and support the success of every build. Our Values in Action: 🤝 Collaboration | 🧩 Problem Solving | 🏡 Family | 💡 Innovation If you have a project that would benefit from our approach, please get in touch! #TechnicalDesign #Buildability #DesignCoordination #ResidentialConstruction #BoastArchitects #RIBAStage0-6 #BIM #MMC #DFMA #ValueEngineering #QualityOnSite #ConstructionRisk #TeamBoast #Collaboration #ProblemSolving #Family