As we look back on 2024, we reflect on a year filled with growth, achievements, and meaningful contributions to the communities we serve. It has been a dynamic period for our practice, and we are proud of the milestones reached and the opportunities to collaborate, innovate, and make a difference.
A Fresh Identity
In July, we proudly unveiled our new brand and relaunched our website, supported by the talented Fergal Hughes (FH Designs) and Fiona Coleman (DNA Creatives). Central to our refreshed identity is the arrow – representing Foundation and Future. It encapsulates our journey so far, a reminder of what we have inherited, and the vision that drives us forward: to create impactful, sustainable designs that benefit our clients, communities, and the built environment.
Delivering Impactful Projects
This year, we celebrated the successful delivery of several key projects including:
- The McDonald’s restaurant in Magherafelt, completed in record time, opened its doors in November, showcasing our commitment to efficient, high-quality construction.
- In May, the Pomeroy Forest Trail was officially opened, an occasion marked by the attendance of Northern Ireland’s First Minister and Deputy First Minister. This project has quickly become a valued community asset.
- The extension and refurbishment of Knockmore Primary School in Lisburn created a welcoming and functional new classroom and sensory room, enhancing the learning environment for its pupils.
Awards and Recognition
Our projects also earned significant recognition this year:
- The Sperrin Sculptural Trail was named a finalist for an RICS award.
- The New Gate Arts Centre received multiple accolades, including recognition as an RICS finalist, a commendation at the Belfast Telegraph Property Awards, and a shortlisting for the Brick Awards, which took us to London courtesy of Wienerberger Brick. The centre also won the CEF Social/Community Construction Project of the Year, a testament to its positive impact.
Building Community Connections
Engaging with our local communities continues to be a priority. This year, we worked with several primary schools, such as St Mary’s Primary School (Pomeroy), Queen Elizabeth II Primary School (Pomeroy), and Groggan Primary School (Portglenone). Through classroom visits and site tours, we aimed to inspire the next generation and share the creative process behind our projects.
Celebrating Team Achievements
Our team also had much to celebrate this year. In July, both Michael Hughes and Aaron Duffy tied the knot – on the same day, no less! We also extend our congratulations to Shauneen Cavanagh on achieving her Part III qualification, becoming a Chartered Architect. These personal milestones remind us of the talent and dedication that drive our practice.
Exciting Collaborations
This year, we enjoyed working with Holmes Miller Architects and McLaughlin & Harvey on an exciting project for Queen’s University Belfast. This collaboration brought back fond memories of student days and underscored the value of partnerships in creating impactful designs. Meanwhile, the Mullenan Cemetery project in Derry, a £4.9M scheme featuring a memorial building, administration facilities, and a café, progressed to the tender stage in collaboration with Design ID and Derry & Strabane District Council.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we approach 2025, we are excited to celebrate the practice’s 30th anniversary. The year promises to be significant, with several new projects set to commence. Among them is the Mid Ulster Sports Arena sports complex, beginning in January. This ambitious scheme, featuring a running track and 3G playing field, will be led by Tony Patterson Sportsgrounds and exemplifies our ongoing commitment to community-focused design. Additionally, we are preparing to commence works on new offices for the H&A Group, a prominent local firm, showcasing our dedication to creating innovative and functional workplaces that support the growth of local businesses.
Reflecting on 2024, we are proud of our accomplishments and grateful to our team, clients, and collaborators for their support and dedication. Together, we look forward to continuing to shape a sustainable and inspiring built environment in the years to come.