Designing architecture that’s worth Talking About.
Create It Studios – On the up
Next year will see Create It Studios celebrating ten years of operation and in this time the Manchester-based company has built a growing reputation for the quality of its work across the UK and overseas.
Why Britain must embrace new-build housing – despite its ‘rubbish’ reputation
In his recent article for The Telegraph, Saghir Hussain emphasises the need for Britain to embrace new-build housing despite its mixed reputation. He points out that while many modern estates may lack the charm of Victorian architecture, not all new developments are inferior. Saghir advocates for a balanced view that acknowledges the necessity of contemporary housing solutions to address the housing crisis while preserving our architectural heritage. His insights spark an important discussion on innovation and historical identity in urban development.
Angela Rayner's Ambitious Plans for Housebuilding
Saghir Hussain, the Director of Create It Studio Architects, shared insightful perspectives on Labour's housing plans in a recent article by The Business Desk. He emphasised the importance of reforming the planning system, increasing support for SME developers, and directing funding towards new town regeneration in regions like the North West.
How councils can utilise unused office space
Saghir Hussain, CEO of Create it Studio Architects, suggests solutions for councils facing financial strain. With a rise in remote work and vacant desks, options like moving offices or adopting a hybrid model can save costs. By redesigning office spaces with a tiered approach, open plan areas, support for small businesses, and integrating council offices, councils can cut expenses, promote collaboration, and enhance services. Insights from other countries hint at the benefits of coworking spaces for regional development.
Development - dos and don’ts
Architect Saghir Hussain shares some valuable insights into the dos and don'ts of property development. He highlights the importance of thorough preparation and seeking expert help from the beginning. It is crucial to check for any restrictions or obstacles that may affect the development, such as planning permissions, easements, or access rights. Creating a clear planning strategy and establishing a detailed budget are essential steps. Additionally, having a contingency fund to cover unexpected expenses is recommended. Overall, Saghir emphasizes the significance of understanding the level of development one is comfortable with and seeking professional guidance throughout the process.
Planning Approved for New Manchester All-Through School Building
Trafford Learning Vocational Centre has been granted approval by Manchester City Council to open a new all-through school in Openshaw. The state-of-the-art facility, designed by Create It Studios, will cater to children from nursery to sixth form. With dedicated zones for each age group, including classrooms, libraries, and laboratories, the school aims to provide a seamless educational experience
Planning fees overhaul announced in Autumn Statement
We are delighted to be mentioned in the recent article discussing the need for reform in the planning system. At Create It Studios, we have been advocating for changes in the planning system to support faster planning applications and make developments more viable for SME developers and investors. We believe that streamlining the planning process is crucial for delivering much-needed homes and boosting economic growth.
Bolton: New Youth Centre Plans Approved
The Be The Change Youth Project is delighted to announce the approval of their new centre on Back Deane Church Lane West. The project aims to provide a nurturing environment for young people aged 11 to 25. The new facilities, including disabled access, on-site parking, and new windows, are set to expand services and support more young people in the area.
Powerhouse Perspective
Discover the transformative power of architecture in the Northern Powerhouse. Our director, Saghir Hussain, shares insights on urban regeneration, sustainable development, and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. Learn how we can help shape the future of the North through innovative designs and a passion for growth. Read the full article now!
Identifying practical problems is vital in architectural design
Architects have a responsibility to prioritise commercial practicalities over design aesthetics in order to deliver financially viable projects for their clients. This includes considering project budget, market fluctuations, and potential issues such as easements, covenants, and party-wall matters. It is crucial for architects to advise clients on what is possible before any money is spent on unfeasible designs. By finding creative solutions to complex problems and considering the bigger picture, architects can ensure that their designs are both visually appealing and commercially viable.
Labour shortages and rising cost of materials mean architects must design smarter
In this opinion piece, Saghir Hussain, Director of Create It Studios, emphasises the importance of architects finding ways to cut costs in the current economic climate. He highlights the need to consider construction costs from the outset and explores methods such as using cost-effective materials and alternative construction techniques. Hussain also emphasises the significance of addressing labour shortages and the financial viability of designs.
Crown Advisory plots 80,000 sq ft Manchester self-storage facility
Plans submitted to the city council proposed the conversion of a vehicle repair site into a self-storage facility near the O2 Apollo venue. The facility would offer 80,000 sq ft of space across four floors, with parking for cars and bicycles. Self-storage is growing in popularity, with record occupancy rates of 83% in 2022.
Turkey to open Manchester consulate
The Turkish Consulate will be located at Oxford Court, Manchester, subject to planning approval for the change of use of the building.