A Season of Growth, Recognition, and Celebration
As the long days of summer begin to wind down, it’s the perfect time to reflect on an exciting season filled with fresh experiences, major milestones, and a few well-deserved celebrations. From debuting at a prestigious industry event to receiving award recognition and enjoying the sun-kissed shores of West Witterings (yes, we did actually have some perfect weather at the beach!), summer 2024 has been a vibrant period for Noviun. Here’s a look at some of the season’s highlights:
Debut at UKREiiF: Forging New Connections in Leeds
In May, Noviun marked a significant milestone by attending the UK Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds for the very first time. It was an inspiring experience, packed with valuable insights, networking opportunities, and industry-shaping discussions. Our team had the chance to meet with key players in the real estate and infrastructure sectors, gaining fresh perspectives and expanding our connections within the industry.
Key Takeaways
Attending UKREiFF for the first time was a dynamic experience that offered plenty of practical insights and opportunities for reflection. Here are some key takeaways from our time in Leeds:
- Plan Ahead: Book Early! We quickly learned that accommodation in Leeds fills up fast when UKREiFF rolls into town. The earlier you book, the better. This ensures you’re not scrambling for last-minute options or compromising on location or comfort during this important event.
- Pack for All Weathers: Sturdy Shoes and Umbrella Required Leeds in May can be unpredictable, so a strong umbrella and waterproof shoes are a must. The dockside area, though scenic, can be windswept, and we learned firsthand that being prepared for all kinds of weather will save you from an unexpected soaking.
- Venture Beyond the Waterfront: A Change of Pace While the event was buzzing around the dock area, we found it refreshing to step away from the hustle and bustle to explore other parts of Leeds. Scheduling meetings or coffee chats in quieter areas of the city allowed for more focused conversations, and a break from the full-on intensity by the waterside.
- Insightful Talks with a Political Edge The talks at UKREiFF this year were both insightful and reflective of the broader political climate. The conference was abuzz with excitement following the announcement of the upcoming general election—what a place to be during such a momentous political period! Discussions on the intersection of politics, public policy, and the future of real estate were energised by the political backdrop, adding depth to the topics covered.
- Bigger Picture Conversations: Driving Change As a medium-sized architectural practice predominantly working on public-sector projects, it was fascinating to hear thought-provoking talks that zoomed out to consider the broader picture. The range of discussions highlighted how architecture and infrastructure can be agents of change, driving forward innovation and creating more sustainable, inclusive environments. The key takeaway was clear: the work we do—no matter the scale—plays a vital role in shaping a better future.
Our debut at UKREiFF left us inspired and motivated to continue pushing boundaries. The blend of industry insights, political context, and the opportunity to meet like-minded professionals made it a milestone event for us. We’re already looking forward to next year!
Noviun Summer Roundup – UKREiiF
Award Wins for Livingstone Academy: Recognition of Excellence
The spotlight shone brightly on Livingstone Academy this summer as it garnered multiple prestigious awards, reinforcing its position as a standout educational institution. These accolades were a testament to the collaborative efforts of our design team, educators, and everyone involved in bringing the vision of this innovative school to life.
Livingstone Academy isn’t just a project; it represents our commitment to creating spaces that nurture creativity, inspire learning, and support the next generation of thinkers. Winning these awards affirms our belief in pushing the boundaries of educational design and building environments that foster both academic excellence and personal growth. We couldn’t be prouder to have our work recognised on such a scale.
Livingstone won multiple awards
Business Buy-Out: New Beginnings, Same Vision
This summer also marked a major business development for Noviun with the successful completion of a management buy-out by some of our existing directors. While this signals a new chapter for us, our core values, vision, and dedication to delivering high-quality, innovative architectural solutions remain unchanged.
With this new ownership structure, we are even more determined to continue on our path of growth, while remaining focused on what we do best: designing environments that inspire and uplift.
Inaugural Noviun Golf Day: A Swinging Success
This summer also marked the debut of our Noviun Golf Day, held at the stunning Goodwood Downs Course overlooking Chichester. The event was a resounding success, bringing together colleagues, clients, and partners for a day of friendly competition and networking in a relaxed atmosphere. With the backdrop of rolling hills and clear skies, the weather couldn’t have been more perfect, adding to the enjoyment of a truly wonderful day.
The camaraderie and great company made it all the more memorable. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with peers outside the office while taking in the scenic beauty of one of the UK’s most picturesque courses. Here’s to many more!
Noviun Golf Day at Goodwood
Annual Beach Social: Fun in the Sun at West Wittering
Summer wouldn’t be complete without some time to unwind and celebrate our successes. In July, the team took a well-deserved break for our annual beach social at West Wittering. The day was filled with laughter, games, and a chance to enjoy the stunning seaside scenery. It was the perfect opportunity for our team to recharge, reflect, and bond in a more relaxed setting.
Summer Beach Party at the Witterings
Summer Soirée and Livingstone Academy Showcase: A Night to Remember
In August, we wrapped up the summer with a spectacular evening that combined celebration and inspiration. Our annual summer soirée was the perfect backdrop for a special showcase of Livingstone Academy. Guests had the chance to get an in-depth look at the project, from its conceptual beginnings to its award-winning realisation. It was a proud moment for the entire team to see our work celebrated in such a meaningful way, alongside clients, partners, and friends who have been integral to our journey.
The evening wasn’t just about the project—it was also a time to reflect on the values we hold dear: innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence. As we raised our glasses to toast the summer, there was an overwhelming sense of pride in what we’ve achieved and excitement for the future ahead.
Noviun Summer Roundup – Livingstone Event
It’s Not All Play: Exciting Developments Behind the Scenes
While we’ve certainly enjoyed the social aspects of summer, it’s been a season of significant progress and growth for Noviun, particularly in the SEND and Building Remediation sectors. Our team has been hard at work delivering innovative projects in these essential areas, continuing to expand our expertise and make a positive impact on public services. Additionally, we’re proud to have taken on more Technical Advisor roles for feasibility schemes with the Department for Education, reinforcing our leadership in educational architecture and strategic development.
This summer also saw the exciting recruitment of Zsofia Simor, a talented Graduate Technologist from Solent University, whose fresh perspective is already contributing to our work. And in May, we successfully hosted our annual student open evening, offering aspiring architects an opportunity to learn more about the industry, connect with our team, and get a taste of what it’s like to work at Noviun. We remain committed to nurturing the next generation of talent while continuing to deliver cutting-edge solutions across all sectors. And finally in August, we celebrated the success of Nathan Mancz and Claudia Stefanoaia as newly qualified industry professionals – Architectural Technologist and ARB Architect respectively
Looking Ahead: Preparing for Education Estates 2024
As summer draws to a close, we’re already setting our sights on the next big event: Education Estates 2024 in October. This prestigious conference is a cornerstone of the education sector, bringing together architects, designers, and industry leaders to explore the future of educational spaces. With our extensive experience in this sector, our SEND Director Zane Putne will again be speaking at the SEND Stage, alongside our specialist lighting and acoustic colleagues, to discuss all things interiors and the importance of highly considered internal environments in special needs schools. We’re excited to showcase our latest projects and ideas, and to engage with thought leaders on how we can continue to innovate and shape the learning environments of tomorrow.
