A team expedition to Brighton

This year, our team embarked on an exciting journey to Brighton to explore the progress of a current project. With a decade-long presence in this vibrant city, the trip offered a unique opportunity for staff to witness the fruition of their hard work and to see some of our finished buildings in person. From insightful structural design observations and a dose of 1980s-themed fun, our Brighton expedition was a perfect blend of work and pleasure.

As we reflect on our longstanding connection with Brighton, it’s worth noting the significant projects that have shaped our presence in the city. Our initial project was a student accommodation block on Lewes Road, followed shortly by two more blocks nearby. The completion of our fourth project on Moulsecoomb Way was in 2022. Currently, our fifth project, 5-8 London Road, continues to take shape and is due for completion in time for students to move in for the September 2024 semester.

During our journey, we took the opportunity to check on the progress of a prestigious house we’re working on. Faced with planning constraints, a substantial portion of the property has been ingeniously situated below ground level, unveiling a subterranean marvel that will house an expansive indoor swimming pool with state-of-the-art gymnasium and spa facilities. These amenities, meticulously curated to cater to the client’s desire for wellness and leisure, represent just a fraction of the extraordinary features that will grace this palatial abode which has presented us with many structural challenges as the scheme has been developed.

After arriving at our hotel, it was time to get ready for our 1980s themed Christmas party, which everyone was looking forward to. Secret Santa this year took on a 1980s twist, resulting in some creative interpretations of the theme.

In spite of nursing a few sore heads and feet the following day, we took advantage of the chance to further explore Brighton. Some of the team opted for a delightful lunch at The Ivy, complemented by a wander around the renowned Lanes shopping area. Although plans for a zip wire adventure were thwarted by the weather, the daring members of our group joined forces with the rest, enjoying a seafront walk before venturing to Brighton Pier to play on the arcade games followed by lunch at a nearby Mexican restaurant.

A visit to the i360 was another memorable part of our trip, renowned for its stunning panoramic views of Brighton. Regrettably, the bad weather prevented us from enjoying the views, but we learned a lot about the tower’s structure. Standing at 162m high and 3.9m wide, it is one of the most slender towers ever built. Fortunately, the intelligent design adeptly responds to wind and weather, making the strong winds barely noticeable that day.

As the day wound down, it was back on the coach for the long journey back to Nottingham, cherishing the memories of a trip that seamlessly combined professional growth, team bonding, and a generous dose of fun.