RIBA Practice Role Model

We are delighted to post that xsite has been named a Practice Role Model by the RIBA.

We are one of nine practices selected to 'illustrate the characteristics of a Role Model organisation' and are looking forward exploring collaboration and exchange of ideas with the other practices involved, over the course of the project and beyond.

PlanBEE Update

Jack was the third PlanBEE student to have joined the xsite Team. We said goodbye to him on Friday but managed to grab him for a quick chat before he left.

Jack, can you tell us a bit about your experience of PlanBEE so far?

Throughout my first year of the PlanBEE program I have undertaken 3 placements. The first of which was at 3E Consulting Engineers, learning about structural, civil and geotechnical engineering. I then moved to Ryder Architecture where, working as a design assistant, I gained experience developing projects from Concept Design to the Developed Design Stage. Following these initial 2 placements I came to xsite Architecture where I have gained further architectural experience as I have had the opportunity to work on different scale projects than those I had worked on previously.

I have found PlanBEE very successful so far. Over the last year - my first year, I have experienced different roles, with different people from various companies which has allowed me to become more knowledgeable about the construction industry as a whole.

I am looking forward to undertaking the next 3 placements over the coming year and gaining my HND level 5.  Following this time, I believe I will be in a good position to choose my favoured role and decide on the career path that I will continue onto.

What projects have you worked on at xsite?

Whilst at xsite Architecture I haev worked on: Foundry Lane Studios - Stephenson Quarter Development (UTC) - Tyneside Cinema - Rockcliffe Pleasure Gardens - West Ave, Gosforth Development.

What have you learned in your time at xsite?

Increased understanding of Photoshop and InDesign

Seen how a project is developed in Revit and AutoCAD

Gained an understanding of how to find solutions to design problems

Observed the difference in requirements and considerations when working on renovation or new construction projects

The new academic year is about to start, meaning that you are becoming a second year and that there will be a new first year cohort. Do you have any tips or advice for them?

Having completed the first year of PlanBEE the best tip I could give to the next cohort of students is regarding time management.  Achieving a balance between hobbies, college assessments and work is key.

There is a lot of information to take in and many assignments to produce over a short space of time so I’d recommend regularly dedicating time to each so that things don’t build up. If they do this then it is possible to achieve everything expected of them.

Has your understanding of Architecture or working in practice changed over the last few months?

Being at xsite has firmed up my understanding of what it is to work in an architectural practice. On completion of PlanBEE, working in a practice will definitely be an option I will be open to.

We are excited to have Emma join us on Tuesday as our next PlanBEE Student!

If you are interested in PlanBEE see the website for more details.

  http://www.joinplanbee.com/

The RIBA Architecture Ambassador Partnership

ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP

The Architecture Ambassador Partnership, part of the RIBA’s Schools Programme, offers an exciting opportunity for RIBA members to engage with pupils in an effort to inspire and encourage them to think about their built environment and the communities that occupy them.

Two members of the xsite team have been working closely with teaching staff from two local schools, developing projects which are being delivered to pupils. The project workshops, which are being run over a number of weeks, provide opportunity to celebrate the creative process and to promote understanding and awareness of the endless possibilities of architectural design and the build environment. 

 Workshop 1 at Monkseaton High School - Cardboard Model Making

CAITLIN ARCHITECTURAL ASSISTANT, XSITE ARCHITECTURE

About the school: Monkseaton High School is a mixed comprehensive school for 13-18 year olds, in Whitley Bay, North Tyneside.

About the project: The initial meeting, spent with the teacher one evening at the Baltic, was very motivating. We discussed possible topics, shared interests and considered the best possible ways to engage the children with the RIBA programme. Working with two Year 9 classes (13-14 years old), they got into groups of 2-4 and were asked to design their dream house for friends. The workshops are held over 5 weeks, culminating with an exhibition at school. An excitable introductory lesson established the key ideas of architecture, group discussions on favourite places, drawing floor plans of their own homes and familiarising them with the brief. The rest of the workshops will focus on cardboard model making, experiential drawings of the spaces, and photographing models to be printed and shown at the exhibition. I hope the project enables the students to recognise the importance of continuing their artistic education into GCSEs and beyond, broaden their understanding of the built environment and while having fun, get them interested in the world of architecture!

 Workshop 1 at Northern Saints Primary - 1:20 Scale Pupils

 ALICE ARCHITECTURAL ASSISTANT, XSITE ARCHITECTURE

About the school: Northern Saints Church of England is a mixed Primary School for 5-11 year olds, in North Hylton.

About the project: Upon hearing about the RIBA Architecture Ambassadors programme, I was excited to get involved. I met the art co-ordinator of Northern Saints Primary at a RIBA hosted training day at the Baltic. In planning the project, we wanted to capture elements of as many construction and arts disciplines to equip the children with the understanding that the possibilities of what they can do ‘when they grow up’ are infinite. In year 1, this term the topic is castles and a 15 minute walk away from the school sits Hylton Castle, which is currently undergoing a period of change and regeneration. We decided to give them a ‘real life’ design project. Our first session involved discussion on what an architect could be, thinking about the best design for Hylton Castle (pizza and marshmallows were a reoccurring theme) and designing their own 1:20 scale versions of themselves. Over the next few weeks they will visit and survey the castle where they will take photographs and measure and experience the building with all of their senses. From then, they will have the opportunity to re-imagine the castle with as much imagination as possible in 3D – the perfect design project! Similarly to Caitlin, we will host an exhibition at the end to celebrate the children and the mini town of castles they will have produced.

If you are interested in the Architecture Ambassador Partnership visit the link below for more information. 

https://www.architecture.com/RIBA/Visitus/Library/Learning/Schoolsandteachers.aspx

Plan BEE Update

Josh’s mug shot

The first rotation of PlanBEE students happened at the start of February. As we said goodbye to Maddy, following her 4 months with us, we welcomed Josh to the xsite team.

We had a quick Q&A with Josh to get to know a bit about him!

Where do you come from?

I come from a village on the outskirts of Middlesbrough.

What did you study at GCSE/A Level?

I studied Process Engineering and Maths at Middlesbrough Sixth Form.

Which other Plan BEE placements have you completed to date?

My first Plan BEE placement was at CUNDALL, which is an engineering consultancy based in Gosforth. During my four month placement I was in the structures team where I gained experience and knowledge on the engineering processes behind the structure of a building.

Did you have any prior experience of the construction industry before you enrolled onto Plan BEE?

In 2016 I completed a six week voluntary work experience at Ace Aluminium & Architectural Services LTD. Whilst there I gained insight into site feasibility, H&S and design and installation. Time was also spent designing curtain walling, bespoke glazing, structural glazing and windows and doors systems. 

Why did you choose Plan BEE over taking a more traditional route?

I chose Plan BEE as I felt that many other courses couldn't offer the opportunities that where available through the course such as; working amongst some of the leading industry companies in the North East and having the opportunity to gain from their experience.

What do you think are good skills or traits to have, in general and you specifically for you as a Plan BEE student?

From a young age I have been interested in the look and shape of buildings which has helped my decision on wanting a career in the construction industry, where I will be able to learn about architecture and design. I feel that my problem solving skills and the ability to think outside of the box will be beneficial and help me in my future career path.

What have you enjoyed/learned over your first few weeks at xsite architecture?

During my time at xsite, I have gained a better understanding of REVIT and CAD through developing 2D and 3D models based on existing projects. This opportunity has allowed me to navigate around the software’s and improve my BIM skills along with creating to scale models.

What do you hope to get out of your placement with xsite?

At CUNDALL I gained valuable experience regarding the structural aspect of construction. This included structural calculations and load points. Now at xsite I hope I will be able to further my knowledge of design principles. Also through use of REVIT and other BIM software I hope to experience how 3D software is used on current and future projects.

What are you interests outside of the course?

During my spare time I enjoy watching county cricket at local grounds such County Durham. I also enjoy getting out in the fresh air and going for a long run along with travelling and visiting new places, mainly cities.

If you are interested in PlanBEE see the website for more details.
  http://www.joinplanbee.com/

xsite Architecture and PlanBEE

Maddy’s mug shot

xsite Architecture joined up with a number of other private sector practices and Gateshead College to create an alternative route into the construction industry- PlanBEE. The course is structured so that each student has the opportunity to work in each sector on rotation, for the duration of the course. A PlanBEE student's time is predominantly spent in the workplace, with 1 day a week in college, meaning that much of their learning is office based.

As a practice we strongly believe that PlanBEE offers a great alternative route into the construction industry. It provides a very unique opportunity for students to experience the different sectors within the industry ensuring that, upon completion of the course, they are able to make an informed decision as to which sector they wish to work in. We also believe that it offers a viable and practical solution for those who wish to earn whilst they study.

Our first PlanBEE student- Madeleine, joined us back in October. She has fitted straight into practice life and we are very much enjoying having her as a member of the team.

Below is a short Q&A we did with Maddy over a cuppa....

Where do you come from?
I come from a small village called Elwick, not far from Durham.

What did you study at A Level?
For my A levels I studied Maths, Business Studies along with Product Design (D&T) at Yarm School Sixth Form.

Had you had any prior experience within the construction industry before you enrolled onto PlanBEE?
During the summer holidays last year I took the opportunity to do 3 weeks work experience at a civil engineering firm where I got the chance to see a residential project being built on site. I have always had a passion for design and architecture and I based my A level Product Design projects on architecture.

Why did you choose PlanBEE over a more traditional course?
I chose PlanBEE because I think it is a unique and very beneficial opportunity to begin my career in the construction industry. I was attracted to PlanBEE because of the opportunities to experience lots of different aspects of the construction industry as well as being able to gain valuable skills along the way.

What do you think are good skills or traits to have as a PlanBEE student?
From subjects I studied at A level, I have developed the creative, analytical and logical aspects of my skill set. During that time I volunteered as a helper at a local prep school as well as competing in the Yarm School Apprentice Competition. Both the volunteer work and the competition helped me develop my problem solving, negotiating and team work skills- skills that have helped me in the PlanBEE programme so far.

When you enrolled on the PlanBEE course was there a sector that you were most excited to gain experience in?
Before I joined PlanBEE I had received university offers to study Architecture. However coming on to this course I am looking forward to gaining exposure in more areas than just architecture. I think it will be beneficial for me to keep an open mind and explore and experience each of the sectors.

What have you enjoyed/learned from your time at xsite Architecture?
Currently at xsite I am working on a residential project- Stephenson House, building a 3D model in Revit. This has involved importing a 2D model in from AutoCAD. I am really enjoying learning the different skills and tools used in Revit to produce 3D models and I am looking forward to improving my BIM skills. In addition I have learnt a lot about the different stages a project goes through as well as what the role of the architect is.

What are you interests outside of the course?
Outside of the course I enjoy playing sports such as Tennis and Hockey. I also enjoy walking my dogs in the country side, visiting new places, spending time with friends and family and I am also passionate about photography.

If you are interested in PlanBEE see the website for more details.
  http://www.joinplanbee.com/

The Dengineers

CBBC's Dengineers is back on this weekend with a Children in Need special. Maral from our office has been involved as one of the designers for this great programme and has worked on dens for two episodes in the series. Maral's first episode is coming up in a few weeks time, but in the meantime check out the first episode of this fun show, produced by a great team, on CBBC this Saturday 19th November at 8:30am or on BBC iPlayer.

Happy Birthday to Us!!

Today at xsite architecture we are celebrating our 16th Birthday!

Here's a look back at some images from our projects over the years.

Goodbye, Hello...

This month at xsite architecture we have said goodbye to our wonderful 2015-16 Part I Architecture year out students- Justina and Rob. Both are set to undertake Part II Architecture courses at the Mackintosh School of Architecture, Glasgow and Newcastle University respectively.

Their leaving did however create two Part I spaces within the xsite team which have been filled by two enthusiastic, fresh faced 2016 graduates- Alice, a former Mac, Glasgow student and Caitlin, who studied at Newcastle University.

For the first time in xsite architecture’s history we have taken on a year out architectural technologist student. Emily, who has completed 2 years at Northumbria University, joins the team for a year-long placement before returning to university where she will complete the final year of her degree.

Take a look at the People section on our website for a brief bio of our new members.

Newbiggin - Windsor View Show Home VIP Launch

Last night saw the launch of The Matfen Show Home for Arch Developments Ascent Homes at Newbiggin by the Sea, Northumberland.

The development consists of 24 homes with a mix of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom properties.  Spacious, high ceiling living spaces planned to take advantage of the exceptional coastal views make this a unique offer at Newbiggin.

The show home opens to the public this Saturday, 11th July at 10am but below are some sneak preview shots from the VIP launch.

Ascent Homes - Newbiggin

Late Shows 2016

Last weekend we were at the Late Shows again, down the road at the Toffee Factory...

‘TF Ear Piece’ was commissioned as an installation to compliment the DJ soundscape beneath Glasshouse Bridge over the two evenings. Experimenting was the word, as we threw ourselves, pencils and toolboxes at the challenge. Built on the lawn outside the office, we gave a new lease of life to the frame which had its last outing as part of the Tyne Salmon Trail in 2007. Being outside in the valley to build it was a treat in the week running up to the event - especially talking to the Ouseburn passers-by who had some interesting interpretations of what it might be.

Nine sound-catchers were aimed towards the DJ speakers and joined by a ‘periscope listener’ for catching sounds around the valley. We also put our own take on the ‘tin can telephone’, which seemed to be a winner with the kids.

Thanks to everyone who came down for a listen!