Practice Profile & Project Experience [February 2012]

1. PRACTICE PROFILE &
PROJECT EXPERIENCE
FEBRUARY 2012
Michael Atkinson | BA BArch DipPPM (Newcastle) MACons (York) RIBA
47 Kitchener Terrace, North Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE30 2HH
T | 07800 593 347 E | info@atkinsonarchitecture.co.uk

2. MICHAEL ATKINSON | ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE FEBRUARY 2012
PRACTICE PROFILE & PROJECT EXPERIENCE | CONTENTS
CONTENTS 2
1.0 INTRODUCTION 3
2.0 METHOD & APPROACH 5
3.0 PROJECT EXPERIENCE 8
4.0 REFEREES 14
PRACTICE QUALITY POLICY STATEMENT 15
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3. MICHAEL ATKINSON | ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE FEBRUARY 2012
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Thank you for the opportunity to present my own particular skills and expertise
in connection with architectural design and conservation work within the
historic environment. I am pleased to submit the following practice profile
and project experience for your consideration.
Michael Atkinson | Architecture & Heritage is a fresh and recently formed
architectural practice based in the North East of England. The practice has
established a reputation for dealing with sensitive projects as part of World
Heritage Sites, Conservation Areas and groups of Listed Buildings, a
comprehensive understanding of all facets of the historic environment.
The planning, procurement and management of projects involving
conservation, restoration and refurbishment of historic buildings required
specialist knowledge and skills that complement the care required in the
design and execution of the works themselves. We take great pride in our
reputation for providing overall quality of service to clients and recognise that
this reputation owes much to our ability to be effective project team
members.
Michael Atkinson | Architecture & Heritage carries Professional Indemnity
Insurance cover and Public Liability Insurance Cover. Copies of current
notifications are available on request.
Michael Atkinson MACons (York), RIBA
Michael is a chartered conservation architect with ten years practicing
experience in the design and management of architecture. Since 2009 he
has held the position of Principal at Michael Atkinson | Architecture &
Heritage.
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4. MICHAEL ATKINSON | ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE FEBRUARY 2012
His distinct specialism lies in the heritage sector and a design philosophy that
is linked to the creative conservation of not only historic buildings and
structures but also the wider landscape context in which they exist.
New design and interventions are undertaken that explore the notion of
touching the earth lightly using materials that are wholly appropriate to their
context and landscape both in a traditional and contemporary manner.
His architecture is responsive to the ‘found’ structures and their landscape,
relating directly to the sense of place and its significance. The act of
intervening therefore is deemed a positive experience that reinvigorates the
particular character of a building or place.
Michael Atkinson is a RIBA Chartered Architect and has been awarded a
Masters in Conservation Studies (Historic Buildings) from the Centre of
Conservation Studies, The University of York, UK.
In January 2012 an application for Michael Atkinson to join the register of the
AABC (Architects Accredited in Building Conservation) was submitted for
consideration. It is expected that accreditation will be achieved by the end
of May 2012.
http://uk.linkedin.com/in/michaelatkinsonarchitect
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5. MICHAEL ATKINSON | ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE FEBRUARY 2012
2.0 METHOD & APPROACH
PROJECT METHODOLOGY
Michael Atkinson | Architecture & Heritage is delighted for the opportunity to
be involved in the creative conservation of the historic environment.
As Architect and Designer the methodology and approach to any project will
be underpinned and guided by those markers put down by the RIBA Plan of
Work and encompass every single stage from A (Appraisal) through to stage L
(Post Practical Completion). The project itself will be separated into those key
stages identified within the Architects Project Brief.
This would involve developing design proposals, applying for the relevant
Statutory Approvals, preparing construction information, obtaining tenders
from approved and competent building contractors and administering the
building contract on site through to completion.
Highlighted below are brief guidelines to the practice’s proposed ‘stepping
stone’ approach to any project.
• consulting the Client closely about the proposed work;
• informing the Client of duties under the CDM regulations;
• investigating the feasibility of the requirements and reporting;
• preparing outline proposals, a scheme design culminating in the
production of the Detailed Design Brief;
• advising on the need for statutory and other consents, and preparing
sufficient information for applications to be made;
• preparing sufficient information for consultants and specialists to
develop their proposals, co-ordinating these and integrating them into
the overall scheme;
• development of the design in collaboration with the design team and
production of, drawings and specifications of the work to a stage
necessary for the tender documentation to be prepared and tenders
obtained;
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6. MICHAEL ATKINSON | ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE FEBRUARY 2012
• advising on relevant parts of the conditions of contract, forms of tender
and invitations to tender as may be necessary to enable the works to
be tendered for;
• consultation with the Local or other Authorities in connection with the
development and the preparation and submission of drawings and
specifications as required by those bodies;
• preparation of all drawings, specifications and information for the
Contractor to enable the works to be executed;
• checking shop details for accuracy of general dimensions and
adequacy of content;
• advising the Client on tenders, tendered prices and estimates for
carrying out the works;
• performing any duties which the Architect maybe required to carry out
under any contract for the execution of the works – provided that they
shall first have approved that contract:
• issuing Architects Instructions to Contractors, making such site visits
deemed necessary and attending site meetings.
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7. MICHAEL ATKINSON | ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE FEBRUARY 2012
2.0 METHOD & APPROACH
THE HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT ‘THE PRACTICE APPROACH’
Michael Atkinson | Architecture & Heritage has positively adopted best
practice conservation values. These have been achieved through adopting
the appropriate blend of qualifications, training and experience in
understanding the conservation of the built environment.
Our values include:
• Maintaining knowledge of current government policies/legislation.
• Careful consideration to alterations, taking into account reversibility
and character of the principle building.
• Adopting proven conservation techniques of repair and philosophy
together with lateral thinking with the use of materials and design.
• Minimal intervention, wherever possible, and retention of historic fabric
through careful conservation.
We have a detailed knowledge and understanding of the conflicting
legislative requirements affecting historic buildings, together with a proven
record of accomplishment in obtaining a balance between the requirements.
We consider a key factor to the success of conserving listed buildings and
areas is having detailed knowledge of elements that are likely to affect a
building or area. These factors will include archaeological origins and
references, architectural styles, methods of repair, legal issues, the use and
understanding of materials used in repair/construction and philosophy.
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8. MICHAEL ATKINSON | ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE FEBRUARY 2012
3.0 PROJECT EXPERIENCE
St. LAURENCE’S CHURCH, PITTINGTON GI
Presently working closely with the Church PCC on several conservation, repair and
maintenance projects at this great historic Church. Re-ordering proposals for the
Vestry include the addition of an accessible WC, storage and refurbished Vestry area.
Design ethos required a sensitive approach to ensure the integrity and historic
character of a special Church interior. Construction work completed at the Church in
late Autumn 2011.
BREATHING SPACE, St. MICHAEL & ALL ANGELS, WITTON GILBERT G II
Presently working with the Church PCC on the Breathing Space Project as lead and
conservation Architect. The project centres on the reordering of the church to create
space for the act of personal emotional health, well-being and healing. This includes
integrating improved church seating, new worship, meeting and performance space,
new facilities such as an Accessible WC, Kitchen and Storage. The project also
addresses repairs to the Church fabric (predominantly the roof covering and
churchyard memorials & tombs). Design approach requires careful detailing so not to
integrate with rather than detract from existing historic character.
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9. MICHAEL ATKINSON | ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE FEBRUARY 2012
3.0 PROJECT EXPERIENCE
HOLY TRINITY WITH St. MARK, STOCKTON-ON-TEES U
Presently working with a burgeoning congregation and enthusiastic PCC on a re-
ordering project that will provide new vestry, chapel and storage space within a
contemporary interior. Design approach allows a flexible space for both church and
community while maintaining the spatial appreciation of the Church’s main worship
space. Work due on site early Spring 2012.
FORMER FRIENDS MEETING HOUSE, STOCKTON-ON-TEES G II*
Project collaboration with xsite architecture, Newcastle upon Tyne as a Conservation
Consultant. Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council wishes to conserve and refurbish the
existing historic fabric to a property at 62 Dovecot Street within the heart of the town.
The project will provide flexible working space for creative digital industries within the
region. Responsibility for all aspects relating to the original grade II* listed former
Friends Meeting House including conservation works such as slate re-roofing, brickwork
repairs & re-pointing, door and window joinery refurbishment & retention of existing
internal plaster cornice detailing and staircases.
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10. MICHAEL ATKINSON | ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE FEBRUARY 2012
3.0 PROJECT EXPERIENCE
GREAT NORTH MUSEUM, NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE G II*
Working with Sir Terry Farrell on the Great North Museum project as a Conservation
Consultant. Responsibility for all aspects relating to the original grade II* listed museum
building including conservation works such as re-roofing, stone repairs & cleaning,
internal plastering & redecoration and refurbishment of historic external lighting
fittings.
RIBA Regional Award Winner for architectural excellence 2010.
St. ANDREW’S CHURCH, NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE GI
St. Andrew’s Church is grade I listed and is the oldest surviving church within the City
of Newcastle upon Tyne. Presently working with the church on a series of repair and
maintenance projects including the conservation of the Priest’s Porch (c.1300) that
involves a series of stone conservation issues. Full understanding of the buildings
significance and historic appraisal has been required.
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11. MICHAEL ATKINSON | ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE FEBRUARY 2012
3.0 PROJECT EXPERIENCE
LANGLEY CASTLE HOTEL, NORTHUMBERLAND GI
Construction of a new bedroom block extension within the immediate context of the
grade I listed Langley Castle Hotel. Several repair and maintenance projects in
connection with the castle structure itself. The work included a full historic appraisal
of the castle and the impact any new construction would have on its significance.
LABC Regional Building Excellence Award (Best Commercial Building) 2009.
EXCHEQUER BUILDING, PALACE GREEN, CITY OF DURHAM GI
The Exchequer building and former Bishop Cosin’s Library is a Grade I listed building
situated on the Palace Green midway between the Castle and Durham Cathedral.
The re-roofing works involved the installation of a new lead roof using traditional
wood-roll jointing techniques and refurbishment of two existing rooflights.
Commendation received from City of Durham confirming standard of work fitting for
the World Heritage Site status.
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12. MICHAEL ATKINSON | ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE FEBRUARY 2012
3.0 PROJECT EXPERIENCE
CHURCH INSPECTOR APPOINTMENTS
NEWCASTLE DIOCESE
St. Peter’s Church Elmwood Road, Monkseaton U Anglican
St. Andrew’s Church Newgate Street, Newcastle upon Tyne I Anglican
St. Hilda’s Church Stanton Road, Marden Estate U Anglican
DURHAM DIOCESE
St. Peter’s Church West Hartlepool Road, Wolviston II Anglican
St. Mary Magdalene Whitehouse Road, Billingham U Anglican
St. John’s Church Darlington Road, Elton II* Anglican
St. Laurence’s Church Hallgarth, Pittington I Anglican
Holy Trinity Church Upsall Grove, Stockton U Anglican
Holy Trinity Church Woodland Road, Darlington II* Anglican
Membership of the Approved Panel of Ecclesiastical Architects & Surveyors in
the Diocese of Newcastle, Durham and Carlisle.
Membership of the Ecclesiastical Architects and Surveyors Association and
the European Forum for Historic Places of Worship.
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13. MICHAEL ATKINSON | ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE FEBRUARY 2012
3.0 PROJECT EXPERIENCE
HERITAGE & CONSERVATION SERVICES
Michael Atkinson | Architecture & Heritage has the capability to provide services in
the following disciplines:
• Reporting – production of assessments to historic buildings/structures/sites that
incorporate heritage interpretation, statements of significance and
archaeological features.
• Inspection/survey/audit – quinquennial inspections of ecclesiastical buildings,
access audits, schedules of condition, dilapidation and repair and measured
surveys.
• Investigations – to undertake site analysis and site inspections.
• Conservation and repairs – conservation advice on historic building issues,
conservation and development plans, sensitive repair and maintenance using
best practice conservation principles, statement of significance, statement of
need and feasibility studies.
• Adaptation – the creative reuse of existing buildings that require sensitive and
imaginative alteration and extension. The retention and rebuilding of historic
facades.
• Sensitive new build set in a Historic Context – Michael Atkinson | Architecture
& Heritage has experience of producing sensitive design solutions within the
historic environment.
• Knowledge of Construction Principles and Techniques – we believe that our
awareness of traditional and historic building techniques is essential to
replicate and compliment the work of the original craftsmen.
• Regulation and Consents – we are able to provide services for planning and
design guidance, Planning, conservation and Listed Building consents, design
and access statements, retrospective assistance where consents have not
been initially applied for.
• Funding/Grants/VAT – we are able to assist in procurement of grants and
other regeneration/capital project funding coupled with assistance on
negotiations to minimise VAT liability.
• Procurement – Michael Atkinson | Architecture & Heritage are equipped to
organise sourcing of suppliers and craftspeople who can provide the
traditional materials and skills to carry out appropriate works as well as
arrange tenders and administer the site works through a suitable building
contract.
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14. MICHAEL ATKINSON | ARCHITECTURE & HERITAGE FEBRUARY 2012
4.0 REFEREES
The Reverend Canon Di Johnson
former Priest in Charge
St. Laurence’s Church, Pittington
The Vicarage
Broomside Lane
Belmont
Durham
DH1 2QW
T | 07599 817 951
E | djohnson462@btinternet.com
Mr Anton Phillips
General Manager
Langley Castle Hotel
Langley-on-Tyne
Hexham
Northumberland
NE47 5LU
T | (01434) 688 888
E | manager@langleycastle.com
Mr Ray Blake
Churchwarden
St. Andrew’s Church, Newcastle upon Tyne
Newgate Street
Newcastle upon Tyne
NE1 5SS
T | 07941 750 413
E | rayatthide@virginmedia.com
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15. QUALITY POLICY STATEMENT
Michael Atkinson | Architecture & Heritage aims to provide a consistent,
competent and professional service which is focused on satisfying the
requirements and expectations of our clients and end users. The qualities
which characterise this service are also reflected in our day to day
relationships with professional colleagues and other members of the
construction team.
The service is supported by the following additional policy aims:
MANAGEMENT POLICY
To embrace the quality management principles and requirements outlined in
ISO 9001:2000 as a framework for improving performance and consistently
achieving client satisfaction.
The RIBA Project Quality Plan for Small Projects is used for each and every
project.
STAFF POLICY
To strive to create and maintain a humane work environment where staff are
encouraged and given opportunities to continuously improve their skills.
ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY
To embrace the principles of sustainable development in our designs.
HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY
To provide a safe working environment and to incorporate the best health
and safety practices in the discharge of our duties as designers.
By means of the development and implementation of the Quality
Management System Michael Atkinson | Architecture & Heritage
demonstrates clear and controlled systematic working methods. This system is
subject to regular review to ensure its continuing effectiveness and relevance
to the Practice requirements and to provide for continuing improvement.
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16. QUALITY ASSURANCE PROCESSES
Quality control is central to all Michael Atkinson | Architecture & Heritage
activities. It is the essence of realising our architecture and leaving both a
satisfied client and user.
Our work in the historic environment has demanded a rigorous detailed
approached to projects and since its inception the Practice has adopted the
RIBA Project Quality Plan for Small Projects on each and every project to
maintain this level of quality management. This QMS is endorsed by the RIBA
under its RIBA Chartered Practice scheme.
Implementation of the QMS has had a number of beneficial effects and has
contributed to a continual improvement in the service that Michael Atkinson
| Architecture & Heritage provide to its clients.
Michael Atkinson | Architecture & Heritage quality assurance processes
ensure that client, funder, stakeholder and user requirements are rigorously
developed, recorded and monitored. Formal project reviews are carried out
by a senior member of staff during key project stages to verify project
requirements and all technical and design submissions are signed off by the
Practice Principal.
The QMS also has processes which require feedback both during the project
development phases as well as post completion.
Our overall quality objective is to ensure that Michael Atkinson | Architecture
& Heritage delivers a consistently high level of service.
Signed: Date: January 2012
(Practice Principal)
Michael Atkinson | BA BArch DipPPM (Newcastle) MACons (York) RIBA
47 Kitchener Terrace, North Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE30 2HH
T | 07800 593 347 E | info@atkinsonarchitecture.co.uk
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