Priestley Construction Supports Architect’s Journal RetroFirst Campaign

Here at Priestley Construction, we specialise in conversions and refurbishments alongside our strong portfolio of new build projects. We fundamentally believe that pre-existing spaces provide a wealth of opportunity for developers to create properties rich in history and character, while minimising impact on time, cost and the environment.

Architect Journal’s RetroFirst campaign champions reuse in the built environment, prioritising retrofit over demolition and rebuild.

The movement has three main goals:

• Promote the reuse of spaces, buildings and material by introducing new clauses into planning guidance and the building regs
• Cut VAT rate on refurbishment from 20% to 5%
• Insist all publicly funded projects look to retrofit solutions first

Priestley Construction has opted to support RetroFirst because of its ongoing reputation as a restoration expert across the UK.

Projects such as our Islinghaus Apartments saw the recreation of an old London pub to create high specification living spaces in the capital. This was our first project in London, and has since led to contract wins including the fit-out and renovation of a private residence in Kensington.

Similarly, our flagship scheme, Conditioning House in Bradford, involves major refurbishments work to a historical Yorkshire landmark. When finished, the Grade II-listed mill will be transformed into more than 150 apartments, as well as office space, an on-site gym and cafe. Conditioning House is a prime example of how, by investing in retrofit, developers can produce end results that benefit both clients and local communities.

For more information about how Priestley Construction can support your renovation project, visit priestleyconstruction.co.uk/construction/.

For more details on Architect’s Journal’s RetroFirst campaign, visit www.architectsjournal.co.uk/news/retrofirst.

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