tp bennett - building sustainable communities

T P Bennett is a leading architecture, design and planning practice with five main operating divisions: tp bennett architects, bennett interior design, bennett urban planning, bennett sef health+education and bennett consulting. The practice works in both the public and private sectors across a range of building types encompassing commercial, residential, retail, hospitality, leisure, health, education, conservation, industry and transportation.

Through the strength of our specialist divisions we are able to apply our knowledge, expertise and experience to the delivery of sustainable urban renewal across all aspects of architecture, planning and interiors. Our concept-led approach to design is forward-looking, based upon an understanding of new materials and technology, knowledge of the past and respect for the environment. This is strengthened by our specialist advisory group bennett sustainable architecture who are able to assist and advise our clients and designers of the available options and best practice in sustainability. In doing so we can begin to have a positive effect on the quality of our environment.

Some important key drivers for the provision of sustainable communities include good quality environments that are aesthetic yet robust; the promotion of safety and security through design; minimising the need for ongoing maintenance; sustainability through long term flexibility and adaptability; the creation of attractive places in which to live, work and play. The practice is involved, through a range of procurement routes, in all five principal types of environments required to support a community, namely housing, education, commercial, leisure and healthcare. Our involvement in all these sectors provides us with a detailed knowledge and understanding of how best to provide new and innovative ways of integrating these environments.
In partnership with housing associations, housing operators, developers and contractors we design and help deliver social and affordable housing through a wide range of projects including "lifetime" family homes, key worker accommodation and low energy housing schemes, some of which have won competitions based on energy efficiency. Our broad range of work in this sector enables us to provide inclusive environments that promote and extend the possibilities for all.

Within the education sector, our experience covers the full range of educational requirements, including early excellence centres, schools for the future, centres for lifelong learning, student accommodation and higher education research facilities. To assist and support the teaching and learning environment our designs are innovative and stimulating, promoting new ways of delivering education whilst meeting everyday needs. Much of our recent work has revolved around the need to open up and extend community access to teaching and learning facilities.

The practice is also involved in the delivery of a diverse range of health buildings procured under many different routes ranging from traditional, PFI, LIFT, and the private medical provider. Current work includes a cutting edge ambulatory care and diagnostic centre, primary healthcare facilities, a long stay hospital for the frail and elderly, fast track diagnostic and treatment centres, specialist acute treatment centres. Through high quality innovative design and respect for wider environmental concerns we aim to provide a new, refreshing type of healthcare facility that supports effective treatment within a reassuring and safe environment.

Chris Bennie, Partner, tp bennett and Jonathan Darke, Partner, tp bennett