Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas

We would like to use this opportunity to wish everyone a Merry Christmas on behalf of the entire Benchmark Architects team!

As 2024 draws to a close, we take a moment to reflect on an extraordinary year for Benchmark Architects. From groundbreaking projects and innovative concepts to industry recognition and meaningful community initiatives, our journey this year has been both meaningful and rewarding.

In 2024, we have continued to be a more environmentally friendly business. As part of our Greener Benchmark initiative, we planted 200 native shrubs at the Forest of Marston Vale. We’ve introduced an EV fleet of cars to the business to reduce our carbon emissions associated with business travel. This commitment to sustainability reflects our dedication to making a positive environmental impact with every project. We obtained a carbon-neutral certification and have continued to actively promote a greener culture through our ongoing CPD programme.

It’s been another busy year with charity work and raising money for our charity partners, Mercy Ships, CHUMS and the Be One foundation. We have participated in some amazing events this year and are excited to see what we can be involved with in 2025.
Supporting our local community remains a priority. We participated in the MK Food Bank Logo Challenge, collecting donations and crafting a logo to raise awareness for this vital cause.

We have been very lucky to have been nominated and shortlisted for several awards this year.
We’re proud that Oak Hill Lawn Crematorium received multiple accolades this year:
• Highly Commended in the LABC Awards 2024 for Best Public or Community Building.
• Highly Commended for the Brick Awards 2024 in the Public Category.
• Finalist at the AJ Architecture Awards 2024 in the Community and Faith Category.
The Waterfront, was recognised internationally, winning Best Architecture Multiple Residence Europe at the International Property Awards 2023-2024.
We were honoured to be finalists in the Built Environment category at the MKBAA 2024, celebrating our contribution to the growth of Milton Keynes.

We have submitted some great projects and have some exciting new projects in the works too.
Luton Residential Scheme
We submitted plans for a car-free residential development of 15 dwellings on Hitchin Road. With active frontages, local brick materials, and modern design detailing, this project aims to create a vibrant addition to the area, improve pedestrian connectivity, and offer much-needed housing.
Norwich City Centre Redevelopment
Our redevelopment of the former Debenhams store in Norwich City Centre combines 1,478 sqm of retail space with 405 purpose-built student accommodations. Designed to blend harmoniously with its historic surroundings, the building includes green roofs, terraces, and high-quality amenities for students, while reenergising the heart of Norwich.
Leeds Build to Rent Scheme
We began work on a 425-dwelling Build to Rent scheme in Leeds, alongside Pascoe Homes and Winvic Construction Ltd. Designed with intricate brickwork detailing, this development respects the site’s historic mill heritage and enhances connectivity to the River Aire.
Roseland Park and Crematorium
We’ve been appointed for the development of Roseland Park and Crematorium, a community-centred project with beautifully landscaped gardens, innovative wake facilities, and a commitment to environmental excellence.
East Cambridgeshire Crematorium
Progress continues on a serene crematorium between Mepal and Chatteris, as the project advances into the Stage 4 technical phase. This thoughtful development transforms a disused site into a space of reflection and tranquillity.
Building Safety HRB Developments
This year we have extended our knowledge of taller building developments through our work on more than 385 apartments across two developments in Luton. We have been preparing technical drawings and specifications for the important Building Safety Act High Risk Building gateway processes which are still relatively new to the industry. We are gathering critical experience in this space on these projects and across other cladding replacement schemes.

In addition to that, our Bespoke Homes subdivision has received many planning approvals this year including: Ampthill; full planning permission for eight one- and two-bed affordable homes >> Woodfield Lane, Renhold; planning appeal has been allowed - demolition of two existing bungalows and the construction of three stunning new dwellings >> Milton Keynes; Planning Permission and Listed Building Consent for a landmark project >> Offshore home; approval for a 2-bed annexe >> Woburn Sands; replacement dwelling and a new garage >> Ampthill; rear extension and internal alterations >> Great Brickhill; replacement dwelling >> Sandy; large single-storey rear extension >> Historic village in Bedfordshire; single-storey side extension, door and window replacements, and additional work >> Silsoe; demolish existing agricultural barns, convert the land to residential use, and construct a new self-build dwelling with an associated garage.

This year, we unveiled Rooftop:MK, a visionary concept for transforming the rooftops of Centre:MK into an elevated recreational space. Inspired by projects like New York’s High Line, this concept aims to enhance biodiversity, provide community amenities, and position Milton Keynes as a global city of innovation.

Thomas, our newest Architectural Assistant, was welcomed to the Benchmark team this year. Loving your vibes Thomas 😊
We also celebrated significant professional milestones within our team – Helaena successfully passed her RIBA Part III qualifications, Jos was promoted to Senior Architect, and John stepped into the role of Project Architect.
After seven incredible years in Ampthill, we combined both offices and moved to our larger offices in Central Milton Keynes. This brought with it a mixed bag of emotions, but ultimately symbolised our growth as a business and was strategic in readiness for anticipated future opportunities. Many of our team continue to live locally, and we remain committed to supporting Ampthill’s community activities and events.

As we wrap up this incredible year, we’re grateful for the opportunities, partnerships, and achievements that have shaped 2024. Thank you to our clients, collaborators, and community for being part of our journey. Here’s to a brighter, bolder 2025!