Designing Success: 2026 So Far
It's hard to believe we're already halfway through 2026.
The first six months have certainly kept us busy. Looking back, one thing stands out above everything else: we've continued to do what we said we were going to do. It might not be the most glamorous headline, but delivering on our promises is something we're incredibly proud of. Whether that's helping long-term projects finally come to life, supporting new clients, or investing in our team, it's what defines us.
One of the biggest moments this year has been reaching practical completion of the sports expansion at Christ's Hospital School. It's a project that's been almost ten years in the making, so seeing it become a reality has been hugely rewarding. We've also celebrated breaking ground on a new Energy Centre, started work on a number of refurbishment projects, and secured an Open Space Notice for an exciting sports development.
Alongside these milestones, we've welcomed a host of new opportunities, from projects with Miller Knight to a mixed-use development at Clipstone, a new lakeside leisure opportunity and further work on the Energy Centre. While sport and leisure remains at the heart of what we do, it's been great to continue growing into new sectors while building on the experience we've spent decades developing.
This year has also been about investing in people. We've been delighted to welcome Kawther to the team as an Architectural Assistant, while continuing to support future talent through T Level placements and work experience opportunities for local students. Helping the next generation discover the profession is something we genuinely enjoy, and it's always refreshing to see architecture through new eyes.
We've continued to develop our own skills too, with members of the team achieving Principal Designer Building Regulations (PDBR) accreditation, ensuring we're constantly improving the service we provide our clients.
Of course, it's not all drawings, meetings and site visits. We've made time to get out of the office too, whether that's a spring walk in the Peak District or an evening of padel. Those moments are just as important in building the relationships that make our team what it is.
We're also incredibly grateful that some of our work has been recognised this year. Winning Development Project of the Year (Up to £5m) for our work at 302B High Street, Waterside Centre, and seeing Christ's Hospital School receive the SAPCA 2026 Large Project Award (submitted and officially won by Smith Construction) has been a fantastic way to celebrate the hard work of everyone involved.
As we look towards the rest of the year, there's plenty to be excited about. Seeing the new sports facilities at Christ's Hospital School officially open later this year will be a real highlight, particularly as it's the first facility of its kind in the UK.
To everyone we've worked with over the past six months – thank you. We appreciate the trust you've placed in us and we're looking forward to seeing what the second half of 2026 brings.