We have extensive experience within our team of completing a wide range of successful community schemes, both renovation and new build. We have a proven track record for sustainable community projects for third sector clients, start-up enterprises and not-for-profits.

Thinking beyond the boundaries of the immediate site, both socially and physically, is an integral part of our approach. The ‘ripple effect’ of well-thought-through small interventions brings about sustainable growth and development. We think strategically about the needs of the community over all generations, the availability of grant funding and community business support, as well as appropriate responses to the site.

Spatial design changes are considered alongside infrastructure eg. heating and power, providing longer-term sustainability rather than a sticking-plaster solution. Alongside this, we consider finishes and identity, often becoming involved in branding, the new design acting as a catalyst for organisational and spatial changes. 

We are well-versed in community engagement and consultation. HSA have run design charrettes, pop-up cinemas, Forest Schools and numerous other events to discuss the aspirations of current and future users and stakeholders of a proposal.

Expertise Across Sectors

• Extensive experience in delivering vibrant cultural spaces, youth centres, therapy and wellbeing buildings, community hubs, both with listed and heritage buildings.

• Proven ability to create commercially viable environments that transform the culture of buildings, fostering lively communities and driving footfall.

• In the current funding climate, we understand the importance of finding alternative revenue streams, and of having a robust business plan. 

• We actively look for ‘meanwhile’ projects and knowledge sharing to run alongside any main proposals, which often become projects in their own right, adding depth and widening the engagement and marketability of an organisation. 

Specialist and Additional Commercial Services:

Early stage Analysis:
Assessing existing buildings or sites for renovation, expansion, or adaptive reuse.

Stakeholder engagement and public consultation:
We believe true consultation with stakeholders and communities produces better buildings, and we make events engaging, graphically accessible and energetic so we get to know who we are designing for. Co-production is embedded in our work. 

Natural materials:
This choice of material impacts on the whole life carbon as well as crafting naturally healthy environments for users, that are breathable, low in VOCs and overall less harmful for the environment.

Sustainability and Energy Assessment:
Integrating sustainable design strategies and conducting energy performance studies.

Consultant Coordination:
Managing input from engineers, planners, and other specialists involved in the project.

Our integrated and sustainably led approach to community projects ensures that we deliver high-quality, exciting environments, even when working within restrictive budgets.

If you would like to discuss how we can support your organisation, we offer consultations at our office or via video call. Let’s explore how our expertise can help bring your vision to life.