Edge Architects & Interior Designers MBNA Full Tender Document V3

Edge Architects & Interior Designers
MBNA– Architectural & Interior concept design proposals
9 th November 2015

Contents

Introduction
Edge Architects and Interior Designers are very pleased to have been invited to submit tender proposals for the refurbishment of MBNA’s
headquarters at Chester Business Park.
This offers a very exciting and challenging opportunity as it will require a strong and creative refresh of the brand with rolling programme
of phased work whilst maintaining continuity of business on the site. We recognise that it is important that staff buy in to the big vision and
that it will be delivered.

Our Studio
Founded 8 years ago by Gareth Abbott, Edge is a multi-disciplinary practice of architects and interior designers. Our aim has always
been as a bespoke studio to offer clients a creative and practical, yet very personal, design service. Projects are a mixture of
commercial, hospitality, government and workplace.
The majority of the team has been part of the studio for many years and the practice has undertaken sustainable and selected growth
as former colleagues joined to service the growing portfolio of work.
The brief is just the beginning and we strive to build relationships with our clients and project team to work toward imaginative solutions
handled with professionalism and a keen eye for what is appropriate, efficient and attractive.
Edge Architects & Interior Designers maintain a strong design ethos underpinned by a realistic commercial approach to projects.
Aiming to provide a high quality service encouraging an open dialogue with clients and user groups to deliver appropriate solutions
that hopefully delight.

The Site
MBNA are the owner occupier of 5 phases within Chester Business Park. The phases were designed for MBNA and are bespoke to their
particular requirements. They are sited at the south-east perimeter of the Business Park and are screened from the adjacent A55 by a
thick belt of trees. This landscape extends to the building to give a very green character to the site.
The MBNA buildings are in 2 groups. Phases 1-4 are co-joined via a long central spine corridor. Phase 5 is separate. Phases 1-4 are the
focus of this project whilst Phase 5 may offer decant opportunities to assist sequencing of the works.
Though separate, there is a clear visual connection between Phases 1-4 and 5, bound together by landscape. Whilst the perimeter tree
buffer and pathways are quite informal the landscape becomes very rigid and formal at the main approaches and entrances and
courtyard spaces. This landscape is very well maintained – some might even say ‘manicured’?
The landscape provides a perimeter separation between the necessary car parking and the buildings. The main visitor approach is
maintained as an open space with a very formal vehicle drop off. Surface car parking flanks the main longer sides of the co-joined
phases. This is screened by trees, hedges and the formal courtyards and accessed by landscaped footpaths. Multi-storey car parking
nestles within the landscape between the phasing groups and beyond Phases 1-4 [forming a barrier to the sports facilities beyond]

The Phases
Phases 1-4 were constructed as individual, sequential phases – each linked by a central corridor at Level 1. A later addition has been the
insertion of the double height Atrium space between Phases 1 and 2. Though different, all phases have the same width thus defining the
footprint [with open spaces between] of the overall phases. Therefore, when viewed from the main approach the main elevation
disguises the very long depth of the accommodation beyond.
All phases share a similar language of scale, form and materials. All have a 2 storey neo-Georgian form with perimeter mono-pitch roofs
to screen the roof level services plant.
The consistent traditional brick, window and roof finishes and consistent parapet give a very solid, secure and steady appearance. This
‘one size fits all’ approach that does not necessarily reflect the workings or the personality of the business within. The phases reinforce the
historic perception that the site is a banking institution and call centre.
The main entrance is used by visitors and some staff. The main staff entrances face each other direction via the Atrium and the far end
of the spine corridor. These face the general direction of the surrounding car parking.
Internally, the phases continue the traditional theme with joinery, plasterwork and general decoration particularly in special areas. The
central corridor link is a monotonous, arrow-straight circulation route that either overlooks the formal landscape between phases or is
constrained by flanking ancillary accommodation or secure walls as it passes through each phase. The landscape between phases is
not generally accessible.
The phases – internally and externally – are very well maintained.
Beyond the corridors the buildings are a mix if small to very large spaces to suit department requirements. The larger Phases 2, 3 and 4
are very deep plan. Horizontal travel distances to the perimeter of the larger spaces exceed current guidelines. All are mechanically
vented from the roof level plant. Cellular offices and meeting rooms often occupy the window elevations, therefore restricting views,
daylight and natural ventilation to the main open plan work areas. The open plan work areas are further hampered by the study carrel
type desks with integral high screens on 3 sides.

The Opportunity
The brief looks to modernise and overhaul the working environment across the site and rebrand to suit the new digital technology focus
of the business. It also looks to recruit and retain staff of the highest calibre. Therefore, class leading accommodation is required to move
the business forward on this site. A flagship development is required.
The current co-joined phases 1-4 provide a very consistent external and internal appearance. The regular window treatment and
horizontal roof line give a very solid perimeter. The internal circulation is very horizontal with ‘safe’ finishes and colours and offer little
visual relief. The work areas are very separate from each other.
Given the very long corridor connecting the phases we understand that staff naturally migrate to one end or the other according to the
location of their work and not necessarily visit the other end. The only real opportunity for refreshment breaks appear to be within the
current level 1 restaurant and atrium.
The brief offers the opportunity to provide better connectivity of work and social spaces, breaking down barriers and creating a more
vibrant, creative workspace. A space that is more reflective of a fresh, forward looking business.

The Proposals
The current buildings reflect a very safe and traditional design that is almost frozen in time from the early 90’s. They are of high quality.
The external and internal fabric is so well maintained that it looks almost new – except the staff – lifestyles, technology, fashions, cars, etc.
have changed.
Therefore our proposal seeks to reinforce the quality of the buildings by treating as a refreshed, neutral backdrop. This will then allow for
the provision of new and improved interventions and connections to provide more suitable, creative spaces and visual interest.
To achieve this we have considered the following proposals:
• First impressions count. The approaches and entrances for visitors and staff are to be improved to become more welcoming and
reflect the new business.
• Improved Connectivity. The link between all entrances is the spine corridor. It is proposed that the circulation route be improved by
serving both floors and link with added or improved social, meeting and restaurant facilities within the current courtyards. [The
relatively small nett loss of car parking spaces to be re-planned within the pockets of space within the perimeters of the current
landscaped car parking].
• Provide stepping stones. The current atrium and courtyard spaces to become active ‘go to’ spaces rather than ‘walk through’.
Spaces to give a linear beating heart that gives life to the business and blurs the boundaries between informal and formal work.
• Shared meeting spaces. Central informal and formal meeting areas to provide improved workspaces and offer greater connectivity
between staff. Central digital booking system for greater efficiency. This includes a relocated auditorium to allow current location
within phase 3 to provide improved office space. Opportunities for meetings in restaurant, café and atrium spaces along central spine
route.

The Proposals
• No more silo’s. Break down the internal walls and improve workspaces. Re-plan around current vertical stacks [stairs, lifts, risers, comms
rooms, toilets, etc] to locate open plan workspaces, creative work areas and breakout spaces along the window walls. The breakout
spaces can project out of the building to improve staff connection with landscape. Cellular offices, reprographics and filing to
occupy internal spaces. Provide welcome zone at entrance linked to central creative working/social spine. This could provide
information about the department and team [eg. a simple introductory display of cubes on shelves representing each member of
staff with photo, etc may help break down barriers]. Current floorplates accommodate groups of up to 600no workstations. Proposed
plans break down in to smaller groups [max 140no]. We propose to plan the new workstation spaces more equitably across the 4no
phases to create similar environments - space standards, furniture, breakout, wc provision, etc. The department structures and
locations will be reviewed to ensure individual requirements are met and locations agreed. Agile working with shared workstations
may be a consideration for these works or the future.
• Atrium link to Phases 1 and 2. Exploit current atrium and provide improved first floor connection via inhabited open breakout
space/bridge links. Remove flanking first floor walls to atrium to create ‘one space’ with improved daylight, ventilation and
connectivity for creative, open plan working. Senior management suite/offices to occupy cellular accommodation flanking main
entrance elevation.
• Links with landscape. Connections are improved by utilising the current courtyards and creating social/creative workspaces that
overlook the landscape. The improvement of the current restaurant offers the opportunity for a covered, double-height winter garden
space in the opposite courtyard. This can provide additional seating and display/presentation opportunities that can filter out in to the
landscape as required.

Existing
Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 Phase 4

Proposed
Phase 1 Phase 2 Phase 3 Phase 4

Level 1

Level 2

Reception

Reception

The existing formal reception location is to be retained. We suggest that the approach is improved by introducing contemporary external wayfinding, signage and lighting that reflects the new brand.
The palette for the lobby is Inspired by rich tones with a neutral backdrop to give a relaxed yet executive feel. With the addition of a contemporary helical stair connecting the main lobby to the senior management
suite this reduces the need to walk visitors through the main engine of the staff areas within phase 1. The reception desk has been positioned to slow the through traffic to the central corridor / spine of the buildings
creating a strong welcome point for any visitors. Consider restricting this entrance to visitors only and improve the atrium entrances for staff. A fire place has been added to provide a feature within the waiting area
and soften all the aesthetics making this a comfortable place for visitors to wait. We suggest an interactive graphics display or TV screen above the fireplace as well as hot desk docking stations and a brew hub. The
finishes and FF&E to the lobby space and reception continue through to the management suite and the executive offices giving this phase a strong identity that is somewhat different to that of the other phases

Reception sketch

Restaurant

The restaurant space is a central hub to the buildings. It is proposed to re-plan the current facility to combine the existing separate kitchen and wash-up areas and improve the connectivity with the circulation spine.
Loosen up the servery areas to create improved circulation.
We propose to remove the suspended plaster ceiling, re-plan the current underfloor duct work and have this exposed at high level. With the addition of a slattered baffle type ceiling, acoustic boards, mesh effect
metal work and joinery this will result in an exciting space to dine. The space will subdivide to create smaller, more intimate spaces that are much more versatile and therefore become an interactive communal
space for work and rest. The addition of integrated diffusers, feature lighting and a variety of seating styles for dining, informal meeting, creative work and even presentations.
The servery area has been redesigned to include a variety of eatery stations, including a dine at servery, hot and cold serveries, ‘grab and go’ and more formal dining options.
The number of covers has been reduced from approx. 500 to 350 to create a less rigid and more flexible layout for a variety of uses. There are opportunities for overspill in the adjacent Winter Garden space and
corridor. ‘Grab and Go’ food and drink to take out and meet/eat at a variety of spaces within building.

Restaurant sketch

Atrium
TEXT…….

Atrium

The atrium is the only tall space in the building and indicates the potential for other connecting spaces. These vertical spaces provide an
opportunity for bringing the landscape in to the building. Green walls are proposed. The staff entrances are to be improved with speed-gates
[therefore relieving reception entrance].
A ‘lid’ to the entrances is provided by a first floor bridge link between Phase 1 and 2. This provides improved second floor connection via
inhabited open breakout space/bridge links.
The existing second floor walls facing the atrium are to be removed to create ‘one space’ with improved daylight, ventilation and
connectivity for creative, open plan working.
Second floor informal creative work areas project into the space from both phase 1 and phase 2. We propose the work pods projecting into
the atrium from phase 1 to be clad in a timber panel and the creative work pods opposite to have a more vibrant design achieved by using
bold colours and glazing.

Atrium sketch

Open Plan Office

Open Plan Office
The existing very deep floorplates are to be re-planned to create improved formal open plan workstations in smaller clusters adjacent to the external window walls. Create central spine of informal, creative
workstations with projecting breakout space that overlooks the landscape.

Breakout

Breakout
The breakout spaces both internal and beyond the building face provide staff with improved connection to the landscape. Locate cellular offices and filing/reprographics/recycling adjacent to central
circulation route. Relocate meeting rooms to shared centrally booked facility along central corridor. Create opportunities for informal and formal meetings. Improve visual and physical connectivity between
departments and buildings. Break down barriers.

The Corridor

The Corridor
The route of the central spine route is to be maintained but improved by serving both floors to create the heartbeat of the space. A vibrant, creative, connecting space. Create ‘stepping stones’ by linking with
added or improved social, meeting and restaurant facilities within the current courtyards. Create opportunity for informal usage and creative working. Potential for added kiosks and franchises to create variety
of spaces and experiences.
The upper floor connects all phases through to the entrances of Phases 1 to 4. Added connecting stairs and lifts at floor voids. Proposed added roof terrace and conservatory meeting area to upper floor above
restaurant.

What if?
Edge Architects and Interior Designers have taken a, perhaps, more adventurous and holistic view and have extended the design to ask
‘what if?’ Therefore, we have considered a series of creative interventions within the current courtyards which may be beyond the
written brief [and budget] to explore and tease out any appetite to create more interventions to create a connected and interactive
series of spaces.
We have taken this approach as the restaurant is located to one side of the spine corridor between Phases 3 and 4. The space between
Phases 2 and 3 is very similar. And the space between Phases 1 and 2 has been infilled with the atrium. This suggests that the current
courtyard spaces between Phases 2, 3 and 4 offer the potential for added ‘plug in’ extensions to allow for the creation of social and
meeting facilities and thus liberate the main office floorplates.
Alternatively, if beyond the current brief, then the approach may be to consider them as aspirational ‘plug in’s’ for the future – maybe
short or long term.
Either way, the core principles of our proposals for the reception, open plan office/breakout space/atrium, corridors and café seating
area remain as proposed

The Methodology
Edge Architects and Interior Designers have the experience to understand what makes buildings efficient, successful and a great place
to work. We have broad experience of the needs and expectations of owners and occupiers of commercial property. Our analysis is
based on benchmark data and our experience in both new-build and refurbishment opportunities.
Our design approach is a rigorous analysis of work patterns and an understanding of the types of spaces best suited to the people at
MBNA, enabling us to establish the criteria to design a successful place to live, work, play and learn. Discovering how MBNA works will
ensure the property strategy matches your ambition and culture of your organisation.
Edge Architects and Interior Designers would provide the full Architectural and Interior Design Services outlined in the Scope of Services
Document appended to the Invitation to Tender. We could also act as the Principal Designer so the separate CDMC role should not be
required. Upon appointment we would perform the full services as set out in the RIBA Standard Form and provide consultancy services
from RIBA Stages 1-7

The Methodology
1
Our methodology will be bespoke to MBNA’s specific requirements and we would look to agree our scope at an early opportunity. As
the redevelopment will be undertaken in work phases we anticipate that there will be several stages under continuous review as follows:
• General masterplan design intent [all areas]
• Immediate design [next sequence of works]
• Future design [later sequences of work]
• Review success of any previous sequence and feed in to design process
• Ultimately this will be a rolling programme of engagement. Therefore the critical ‘front end’ consultation will ultimately be considered
alongside the later RIBA workstages as part of a continuous review
A similar process was undertaken for Cheshire Datasystems Limited for their new offices and data centre in Stockport. This bespoke
30,000sqft office for Cheshire Data Systems Ltd. is the first of four buildings planned for their new campus . Edge Architects and Interior
Designers also designed and delivered the interior fit out providing the client with a choice of flexible team based work spaces. The
project was completed in 2014 with a contract value of 4.5 million and was Highly Commended at the BCO Awards 2015 for our
engagement with the client and value, in both cost and customer satisfaction, that the project delivered. Following the success of this
project we have completed a refurbishment of their existing building on the same site. We await instructions for the next phase.

Stage 1 – Appraisal, Strategic Brief & Outline Proposal
Stage
Early engagement and understanding the brief from the outset is critical. This is important as it will inform the structured outputs.
Following appointment we would propose that we spend a period of time – we suggest 10-20 days – actually working within the building
to ‘get under MBNA’s skin’ and commence the following:
•Meet the key personnel and set up steering group meetings, user group meetings and key interviews
•Understand the department structures, functions and requirements
•Understand the MBNA dynamic and vision
•Receive and review drawings and documents relating to the building. Undertake sundry check measurements as required
•Request and coordinate any required measured survey information
•Identify any gaps and request any outstanding information
•Inspect all areas and undertake appraisal of existing premises
•Review particular requirements including security, IT, services, filing, catering, etc. with design team and specialist consultants
•Review cost plan

Stage 1 – Appraisal, Strategic Brief & Outline Proposal
Stage
These would be structured visits and we would suggest that we have suitable clearance to allow authority to hot-desk in many formal
and informal areas. Preferably full weeks to get good understanding of different working days and any non-standard working patterns
We would coordinate similar visits by other consultants and seek general and specific advice relative to brief. This would include
consideration of early sequencing options for the proposals, programme implications, cost and buildability.
Sketch illustrate proposals as they evolve to present graphic outline CAD representation of the target vision within the brief alongside
schedules of accommodation and MBNA requirements document.
We suggest that this critical stage could take longer than the programmed 20 days. We undertook a similar exercise for UKBA for the
consolidation of their offices at a new, single location at The Capital in Liverpool. It was necessary to embed ourselves in the office for 4
weeks to fully understand the client’s requirements and achieve prompt outline and full business case sign off. We worked closely with
the client through feasibility and briefing stages to develop detailed space planning for the largest office letting in Liverpool’s history. At
over 215,000sqm, The Capital accommodates 2000 office staff with a secure public counter facility, interview suite and reporting centre.
Post tender the practice was novated to the contractor’s construction team to deliver a number of the office floors and the public
counter facility. The project was completed in 2011 with a contract value of 10 million.
Agree MBNA sign off plus usual Stage 1 Outputs

Stage 2 – Scheme Design Stage/Detailed Proposals
[We would propose the following [plus usual Stage 2 outputs]
We would look to seek specific design briefs [within umbrella outline brief (Stage 1) and progress client workshops with targeted MBNA teams relative
to their ‘big vision’ and proposed sequence of works.
Upon agreement of briefs we would explore sketch development options. This will involvement of MBNA in our sketch review process which will
include likes, dislikes, post-it –notes, photographic record of whiteboards, etc.
At this time we would propose visits to suitable buildings – other MBNA facilities, buildings undertaken by CBRE and Edge Architects and Interior
Designers and others to benchmark against industry standards and new ways of working
We would also look to agree samples of furniture and proposed materials to be used – carpets, ceilings, lighting, etc for MBNA to trial
This will then commence a rolling programme of approvals as we anticipate that we would need to look at the next sequence as priority [but with an
overview of the whole project]:
General design intent [all areas]
Immediate design [next sequence of works]
Future design [later sequences of work]
Review success of any previous sequence and feed in to approval process
This approval process will include internal and external finishes and coordinate boards, mock-ups and test areas.
Planning Applications and any approvals required from Chester Business Park will be prepared in this period. We anticipate this will involve
attendance at meetings as required to assist the approval process
Upon completion we would contribute to team design report and seek sign off
We suggest that this would entail 1 day per fortnight with MBNA on site

Stage 3 – Design Development & Tender
Documentation Stage
[We would propose the following [plus usual Stage 3 outputs]
In this stage we will develop and coordinate detailed design packages. We will have regular meetings with MBNA to keep them
informed and to report progress. At this time we would promote agreement of a change control procedure.
Design Risk Assessments will also be undertaken. These will be coordinated with MBNA and the design team. This will include
consideration of the work sequence – disturbance, noise, contractor access, etc and the potential impact upon MBNA – staff safety,
business continuity, etc.
Upon completion we would contribute to team design report and seek sign off.
We suggest that this would entail 1 day per fortnight with MBNA on site.

Stage 4 – Production Information Stage
[We would propose the following [plus usual Stage 4 outputs]
During this period we will be coordinating production design information with the team
This will include coordination with any contractor design packages.
We will have regular meetings with MBNA to keep them informed and to report progress. We anticipate that these meetings will involve
overall review across the whole project as noted in previous stage.
Stage 5-7 – Construction/Handover & Closeout/In Use
[We would propose the following [plus usual Stage 5-7 outputs]
At commencement of the works we would suggest initial spaces to be fitted out to become the agreed benchmark quality for the
construction team to achieve.
During this construction works we will undertake regular reviews of the progress and quality of work relative to sample areas. Safety and
effects upon MBNA business will be included.
We will undertake regular planned visits. [Note: Edge are very ‘hands on’ and are available to undertake prompt visits and quality
checks very quickly and agree action plan – usually within the 1-2 days depending on the nature of the enquiry. If urgent, we can usually
attend within 1-2 hours].
We would feed lessons learned back in to the review/design process to provide efficient, streamlined process and successful
completion.

Appendix

Project Key Staff

Key staff
Gareth Abbott BA (Hons), BArch, RIBA
Director
Gareth studied at Liverpool and Nottingham Universities and qualified as an Architect in 1985. Having worked for a number of high profile practices in the North West and
Germany, Gareth established Edge Architects in March 2007. He has excellent experience working for Public and Private sector bodies delivering a wide range of projects for
clients including Mace, the Home Office, Ministry of Justice, Her Majesties Passport Office and Manchester College.
As a director of Edge Architects, Gareth maintains a strong design ethos underpinned by a realistic commercial approach to projects. Gareth will be part of the architectural
design team bringing a detailed knowledge of building refurbishment, interior design, space planning and flexible ways of working.
Gareth has excellent experience working for Central Government bodies and has been involved in a wide range of Projects including Vulcan House ‐ Sheffield, The Capital –
Liverpool, Lunar House – Croydon for UKBA and 101 Old Hall Street – Liverpool, Freemans Reach – Durham for HM Passport Office. He has also been a key player in assisting and
developing the outputs for the Merseyside Police Estate Rationalisation Framework.
Project Experience
Codeworks – Stockport Lead designer for new-build office to expand CDL campus in Stockport to provide open plan, flexible space for the expanding business. Included
masterplan for future growth. A particularly challenging site adjacent to the M60 motorway, the project was completed in 2014 and highly commended at the BCO Regional
Awards this year due to aircraft and motorway noise and fully glazed south facing facade. High sustainability agenda.
West Tower – Liverpool One of the most iconic towers on the Liverpool Skyline, West Tower was completed in 2007 for the Beetham Organisation. This 40 Storey residential
tower, has 135 apartments above 5 floors of offices and includes a car stacker in the basement. The tower completes the Old Hall Street mixed use development and is the
tallest building in Liverpool commanding spectacular views across the city and the River. Project Value £20 million.
Elevator Studios - Liverpool – Delivered in 3 phases, the refurbishment of 4 Grade II listed warehouses within the city centre to provide offices, cafe, rehearsal and studio space
for artists and business associated with the music industries. The works included extensive roof, brickwork and timber repairs as well as the insertion of new toilets, staircases, lifts
and internal fit outs. The practice worked closely with the client to develop their business model and deliver robust flexible space for more than 70 young businesses. The
project was completed in 2012.
Forensic Training College NPIA, Durham Following the completion of the forensic training college, the practice was asked to undertake the extensive refurbishment of the
adjacent Grade II listed building to provide 2500sqm of additional offices, conference facilities and accommodation for residential students. The project achieved an excellent
BREEAM rating and won a Co Durham Environment Award.
Liverpool Consolidation Project (UKBA) The practice worked closely with the client through feasibility and briefing stages to develop detailed space planning for the largest
office letting in Liverpool’s history. At over 220,000sqft, the project accommodates 2000 office staff with a secure public caller facility and holding cells. Post tender the practice
was novated to the contractor’s construction team to deliver a number of the office floors and the public caller facility. The project was completed in 2011.

Key staff
Trevor Conley BA (Hons), DipArch,
Project Director
Trevor studied Architecture at Liverpool John Moores University. With over 20 years post‐qualifying experience, Trevor has held senior roles including Commercial Sector Director
for high profile architectural design practices in Manchester and Liverpool. Workload has been varied and he has successfully delivering projects across both private and
public sectors. Trevor has also led on the high profile interior design fit-outs of Grade A office spaces for leading professional clients including legal HQ Buildings (Hill Dickinson
and Halliwells), telecommunications call centres (British Telecom) and banking sector (Royal Bank of Scotland and Coutts Bank). He also has experience in health care,
education and housing sectors.
Project Experience
West Tower
One of the most iconic towers on the Liverpool Skyline, West Tower was completed in 2007 for the Beetham Organisation. This 40 Storey residential tower, has 135 apartments
above 5 floors of offices and includes a car stacker in the basement. Trevor lead the architectural delivery team on site during the works. Project Value £20 million.
Research Department – Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital
Refurbishment of an existing former ‘Nightingale’ ward to provide a bespoke research department and multi-use meeting / conference room. The building was required to
help develop a world class research function and to also improve the image of the poorer building stock adjacent to the new build hospital.
Environment Agency
Edge are pleased to be on the Environment Agency Framework. This is to deliver an improved working environment and estate solutions. We are currently working on a new
build office with associated river maintenance plant storage at a sensitive rural site in East Anglia that meet their sustainability agenda.
Blue Light Emergency Services Authority
Our involvement with emergency services required input and supporting documentation at outline strategy level, co-ordinating competing requirements of the client body.
We formed a clear and cohesive strategy for the Merseyside region as a whole in collaboration with the client, over a large number of sites. Works progressed from
consolidation of assets through to refurbishment of existing stock and several new key facilities to replace outmoded accommodation. Re-orientating internal departmental
relationships were key drivers behind upgrades to the building envelope and elevation treatment. Cost effective repurposing of existing buildings were essential, given the
clients relationships built with local communities.

Key staff
Angela Rawson BA (Hons) Interior Design
Head of Interior Design
A highly experienced interior designer possessing excellent design and communication skills. Her professional practice and working skills in the industry are well established, with
a career that spans 18 years. Proficient in managing project budgets and workflow, FF&E product and material knowledge, resourcing as well as ensuring the final work meets
with the client’s expectations. Skilled knowledge of interior detailing and materials properties. Project leader and vast experience working with clients, contractors and
suppliers. Angela has worked with some of the leading Hotel brands in the UK and across commercial, education, residential and leisure sectors.
Project Experience
Hilton Hotels - Hilton Double Tree, Liverpool Lead designer on the Luxury four star hotel. The grade II listed building, which was formerly the Municipal Annexe on the corner of Sir
Thomas and Dale Street. The hotel features 87 guestrooms, Eforea Spa, swimming pool and relaxation zone, as well as a Restaurant, residents lounge and bar. Hilton submitted
the scheme to the design review committee in USA as a design excellent Double Tree Hotel example worldwide.
Simon Rimmer Bar & Brasserie – Double Tree, Liverpool The design and specification was developed working closely with Simon to interpret his visions and aspirations.
In addition; Hilton Liverpool One, Hilton Ageas Bowl, Southampton, Hampton by Hilton, Birmingham
Shropshire Hills Discovery Centre, Craven Arms Design proposals for the remodelling of the centre to incorporate Grow, Cook, Learn – a local organisation. Demonstration
kitchens and newly modelled exhibition, cafe and retail spaces.
Hotel Indigo, Liverpool (2012) 151 Keys Intercontinental Hotel Group boutique brand. Design and delivery of guestrooms, corridor and reception areas. Incorporation of the
neighbourhood intriguing story into the design, colour and finishes specification. Concept design of Indigo Newcastle also undertaken.
Accor Hotels IBIS Styles, Southwark (2015) & Liverpool (2013) Concept designer for ground floor public areas to Liverpool. The scheme was developed with the Accor design
team and incorporated the ‘subliminal Beatles’ theme selected for this hotel. We are currently working with Accor on the Southwark proposals. Refurbishment due to
commence November 2015.
NSPCC Hargreaves Centre – Liverpool New Build drop in centre with emphasis on child use. Group workshops with local children established and assisted in the design
development of the building.
Goal Soccer Centres Concept design for the re-branding and roll out refurbishment of all UK Facilities.
East Leake, Harry Carlton Secondary School Interior finishes/colours specifications. Space planning of all facilities including classrooms, dining area and gymnasium.

Key staff
Victoria Coates BA (Hons) Interior Design
Interior Designer
Victoria graduated with a 1 st Class Honours degree in Interior Design in 2012. Highly skilled technically with a strong product knowledge. Bringing a wealth of experience in
Student Accommodation, Hospitality, Commercial and Education experience to the Edge Interiors team.
Project Experience
Vita Student – UK Part of the award winning Vita Student development team representing the client whilst liaising with the project managers, architects, contractors and
suppliers. Working with a team to develop all the required FF&E elements, presenting this in-house to the board of Directors for approval and ensuring it was communicated
through to each development effectively and efficiently. Responsible for setting up Vita Brand Standards booklet.
IHG Hotels – Holiday Inn Express and Crowne Plaza Interior Designer with the Hotel management company as our client the design team worked on a number of IHG hotels
around the UK. The Crowne Plaza in Liverpool and Holiday Inn Express in Birmingham were among them.
IBIS Styles, Southwark (2015) & Liverpool (2013) Design team for the lobby scheme proposals working closely with Accor team.
Newbury Race Course – Nursery and Lodge, One of the biggest projects ever to take place at a British leisure destination. Worked alongside the project architect and
contractor the western end of the site is almost complete, with the brand new horsewalk and refurbishment of the racecourse stables finished in 2014. The new state-of-theart
Rocking Horse Nursery, Stable Staff Lodge and Owners & Trainers car park.
Downing – UK Interior Designer Downing Student have 25 years of experience in supplying students with accommodation but with the market constantly changing they
employed a design team to provide the interiors with a fresh new look. Working closely with the client every step of the way via a number of presentations and liaising with
Contractors, Architects and Project managers we developed a new scheme for both the bedrooms and communal areas.

Key support staff
Michaela Hogan – Quality Manager
Michaela is responsible for all aspects of our Quality Management programme, maintaining our ISO9001 accreditation to a very high standard. She is
also responsible for the overall management of the Practice and its team.
Fred Hobbs – Interior Technician
Fred is an extremely hard working and enthusiastic member of the Edge Team. He completed his studies in 2013 in Architectural Technology and this
has given him a strong foundation in construction and design industries. He has an excellent understanding of all stages in the design and
construction process. He has brought a great understanding of Revit to our team which compliments the practice use of Archicad.
Fred will be part of the interior design team bringing a detailed knowledge of new build, refurbishment projects and, interior design detailing and
specialist joinery. He is the practice BIM Champion.
Amy Leighton BA (Hons) Interior Design - Assistant Interior Designer
Amy is the newest member to the team. She graduated in 2014 and is currently gaining a wide experience on a variety of projects within the practice.

Interior Design Services
Edge Interior recognises that every property has its own essential character and that it is our job to bring it out. We approach each
scheme individually taking initial ideas from concept and detail design to site and completion. Good design should be relevant,
enriching and provide ‘added value’.
The team has extensive professional experience and works efficiently within specific budgets and time frames. Presentations are
produced using a combination of 3D visuals, AutoCAD drawings and presentation boards created from our in-studio reference and
sample libraries.
The most successful interiors are those which evolve from a combination of ideas from both client and designer. It is with this philosophy
that we approach every new project. We firmly believe in the importance of establishing a rapport, as well as having the flexibility and
understanding of their ideas enabling them to be transformed into reality.
Edge Interiors work under the same banner and in conjunction with Edge Architects on projects in house but the majority of our work is
commissioned independently. We are currently working in collaboration with other architectural practices on schemes.

Edge Architects & Interior Designers
9a Union Court
Liverpool
L2 4SJ
T + 44(0)151 236 8681
M 07540 136977
angela.rawson@edge-architects.co.uk
liverpool@edge-architects.co.uk
www.edge-architects.co.uk