"PRACTISING WHAT THEY PREACH"
"Denovo Design practice what they preach about environmental concerns and they are actively adopting measures that will continue to improve their environmental performance for generations to come"!
The Green Organisation
November 2018
AWARD-WINNING REFURBISHMENT PROJECTS
"I have used Denovo Design for many years now, through several of my projects throughout Liverpool. They are a great team with really friendly staff behind them. They have worked very closely with me and my team and always provide valuable information to any project that we work on together.
Together we have won a number of great awards from previous projects. This has been achieved through the great team behind Denovo Design, in particular Lynda Smith, who does a fantastic job of writing, presenting and submitting the projects to be nominated for awards.
I am very satisfied with their work and will continue to use Denovo Design in the foreseeable future".
Private Developer
(Conservation/Student Accommodation)
August 2018
AWARD WINNING CHURCH REFURBISHMENT AND REORDERING, LIVERPOOL
"The Vision project at Mossley Hill has been exemplary in every respect and all the thought and work – and multiple iterations of design – that went into it resulted in a truly magnificent facility which will serve the community well for many years into the future.
It is actually my “go-to” project when anyone asks me for an example of a really good reordering.
My hearty congratulations to everyone involved in delivering the project on these 2 prestigious awards".
Ian Simpson MBA CBIFM
Heritage Officer
Diocese of Liverpool
July 2018
LUXURY PRIVATE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
"I would just like to say I am really impressed with the quality and style of your plans. Also I am really happy with your service, and the way you will help out with any aspect or problem".
Kevin Corish
Director
Prestige Homes
July 2018
FIRE SAFETY UPGRADES, REFURBISHMENT AND FIT OUT
"I've dealt with Denovo Design, and in particular Dave Evans, on a number of projects over several years and have always found the service they provide to be first class".
Healthcare Professional
November 2017
REFURBISHMENT PROJECT IN A CONSERVATION AREA
"Denovo Design provided a very professional and thorough service that resulted in a set of excellent final designs - schemes for our conservation area requirements. This was supported by effective instruction and liaison with a wide variety of professionals and local planning bodies".
Private Client
May 2017
REFURBISHMENT PROJECT - WINNER OF GREEN APPLE AWARD FOR BUILT ENVIRONMENT 2017
"I have used Denovo Design for 3 years now over several of my projects. They are a great team with lovely welcoming staff. They have worked very closely with me and always kept me informed. I am very satisfied with their work and will continue to use Denovo Design for future projects".
Private Client
May 2017
AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN WIDNES - WINNER OF GREEN APPLE AWARD FOR BUILT ENVIRONMENT 2017
"I am delighted that our Crossways Development has been recognised for a Green Apple Award, as the development was a new kind of venture for us here at the Trust, but one that has ultimately been a great success. We here at the Trust are committed to making affordable, best-in-practice homes for customers, and it is great to be recognised for this".
Nicky Harris
Development Manager
Halton Housing Trust
April 2017
AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN WIDNES - WINNER OF GREEN APPLE AWARD FOR BUILT ENVIRONMENT 2017
"In my opinion they are really beautiful, every aspect designed for comfort and the surroundings have been well thought out. I think and hope that other residents feel the same, and that keeping them well looked after is important to them too".
Halton Housing Trust - Resident Feedback
April 2017
CONSERVATION REFURBISHMENT PROJECT IN LIVERPOOL CITY CENTRE
"The renovation has been highly successful, subtly marrying traditional and modern in this Grade II listed building which can now blend into the surrounding architecture and start to become appreciated".
Private Client
Liverpool City Centre
April 2017
PLANNING APPROVAL ON A PROJECT IN A CONSERVATION GREEN BELT AREA
"We want to take this opportunity to say how much we appreciate the time, personal and professional effort that Frank, and Denovo Design as a team, have put towards achieving this final positive result for us".
Private Client
Rural Merseyside
October 2016
CONTRACTOR FEEDBACK
" 'Contract completed on time' – Contractors do not often get the opportunity to make this statement; but I am proud to say this is what happened on Crossway, Widnes for Halton Housing Trust!
Contracting can be difficult; but with the right team all pulling in the same direction, contracting can be made that much easier, and we at MBE are delighted to confirm that Crossway’s success was a genuine ‘Team effort’, admirably led by Denovo’s Director Frank Olchowski and Nicky Toomey, and White Young Green, supported brilliantly by Halton Housing Trust and Alan Johnson Partnership. We at MBE Construction Limited look forward to continuing this excellent working relationship to our mutual benefit for years to come".
John Morris, Chief Executive
MBE Construction Limited
RIBA STUDENT MENTORING FEEDBACK
“The RIBA Mentoring Scheme for me has been an invaluable experience. It has given me the opportunity to work alongside an award winning architectural firm, who have allowed me to take part in their site visits which include meeting clients and attending meetings.
I now feel more prepared for my year out in industry when I finish my undergraduate course, as I have gained a clear understanding of how an architectural firm functions, allowing me to experience the reality of being an architect, while putting what I’ve learnt into practice".
Adam Wadsley - 3rd Year Student - Liverpool University School of Architecture
March 2016
FROM THE LIVERPOOL ECHO 11 NOVEMBER 2015
“At the trust we aim to provide affordable homes for a wide variety of family sizes.
We have a long-standing partnership with architects Denovo Design, who constantly delight us with the quality of their designs.
Denovo really understand the types of homes that our customers need and want and we are looking forward to working with them on future projects.”
Paul Mullane, Director of Development and Investment
Halton Housing Trust
'BEST AFFORDABLE HOUSING' - YOUR MOVE MAGAZINE AWARDS WINNERS fEATURE 2015
“Impressed with clever design and money being spent where it matters”.
Your Move Magazine November 2015
Panel of Experts' Feedback
'BEST AFFORDABLE HOUSING', NORTH WEST - YOUR MOVE PROPERTY AWARDS WINNER 2015
"We were impressed ... particularly with how the buildings were arranged to create a sense of community. Landscaping and the use of living walls helped to green the streetscape, create a pleasant oasis in an otherwise fairly harsh urban environment.
Houses were well proportioned and with façade detailing that looks like it should stand the test of time".
Your Move Property Awards October 2015
Judges Feedback
MERSEYCARE, NORTH WEST
"..Denovo Design Limited have acted on behalf of Mersey Care NHS Trust for several years and across a variety of projects, providing a range of very professional services.
These services covered architectural, project management and project financial control including formulation of contract documents.
The working relationship between Mersey Care NHS Trust - Estates and Facilities Department and Denovo Design Limited is invariably positive, genuinely enjoyable,
undoubtedly beneficial to both parties and above all very professional in all aspects".
Colin Coventry
Head of Estates Capital
Mersey Care NHS
AFFORDABLE APARTMENTS,WIDNES
"The efforts by both the architects and the applicant on the Queens Court project have made this scheme very easy to process to a positive outcome from my role as a planning officer. I believe that the innovative design and attention to detail in the building pay homage to the site’s former use and that it now presents a very attractive building on a prominent site leading to the Victoria Square Conservation Area. The completion of the site has added much needed capacity to the Borough’s supply of affordable housing and I believe makes a very positive contribution to the character and quality of the area. This, together with thoughtfully implemented landscaping, have assisted in quickly integrating the building into its surroundings".
Glen Henry
Area Planning Officer, Halton (Own views expressed, and, therefore, not necessarily the views of the Council)
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
"Dealt with any queries quickly and efficiently."
Site Manager
AFFORDABLE APARTMENTS,WIDNES
“We are delighted with the new apartments at Queens Court. The innovative design has really paid off with the one and two bedroom apartments in high demand and customers enjoying their new homes. The site holds a significant musical history and we are happy we have been able to mark this within the building, with the glass mural and the ‘guitar strings'."
Noel Sharpe
Executive Director, Customer Services, Halton Housing Trust
CONSERVATION PROJECT UP TO PLANNING STAGE
"We would like to thank you again for coordinating, developing and presenting a thorough and professional package of information so far for the planning application".
Private Client
Rural Merseyside
CENTREPOINT, LONDON
"The imagery was very helpful for explaining the designs internally, the approach to communicating the design is most helpful and the visualisations are fantastic".
Tamsin Griem
Head of Property and Development
Centrepoint, (Suppoting Homeless Young People)
CONTRACTS MANAGER
"We have worked together on mainly refurbishment projects throughout the country. Each project has thrown up its own problems and demands, from conservation issues, to limitations of space and work areas in the remodelling of a city centre office block. Denovo are there to assist, not only in design, but also to offer practical advice in efforts to ensure that both safe and economic progress can be achieved".
Chris Martin
Egan Projects
PROJECT CONSULTANT
"A forward thinking and innovative architectural practice that is always a pleasure to collaborate with."
Fraser Eaton
D. Eaton & Partners
"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Denovo, and found the work at your business both challenging and interesting. I particularly enjoyed assisting you with many projects, including the Architruck Quiz, and using your design softwares".
Michelle Olchowski
Work Experience Student July 14
“This is a business that cares about the community it serves and works in. It takes its corporate social responsibility seriously. It sees considerable impact from its approach, not only through its proven strengths in its environmental work, but also in its support for charities, community groups and helping young people to learn about the world of work. There is no doubt that Denovo Design exceeds the Investors in People requirements for demonstrating positive practices and impact in Corporate Social Responsibility.“
Bill Twiss, Independent Investors in People Specialist – March 2014 assessment.
"Really good time - valuable experience into the work involved in becoming an architect - staff were helpful and welcoming"
David Thomas
Work Experience Student
LIVERPOOL - SUSTAINABLE SUPPORTED ACCOMMODATION
“ The overall scheme, (Cherry Mill), demonstrated a diverse use of renewable and recyclable materials, providing real and visible benefits of reducing the carbon footprint whilst at the same time being aware of the demands and needs of the residents. What also came over strongly was the consultation process that was undertaken with the residents, determining the design and impact of apartments, public/common areas, and external space. Each resident had clearly "put their own mark" on their living space, creating an "at home" feel the instant you walked over their threshold".
Lesley Martin Wright
Chief Executive
Knowsley Chamber of Commerce
CHERRY MILL - SUSTAINABLE SUPPORTED ACCOMMODATION
“Cherrymill has established itself as part of the local community and the tenants are actively involved in local projects which include gardening and art groups. Individually they have stated they feel safe, secure and valued, this in turn has contributed greatly to a general feeling of positive wellbeing and good mental health. For the staff team this is at the very heart of what we would strive to achieve for all the users of our services.
The house itself is now very much a home; it has softened and become a comfortable haven for those who live there. The garden is the central point and encourages conversation, laughter and quiet contemplation. We are all very proud of what has been achieved.”
Tracy Gunning
Service Manager
DENOVO DESIGN
"I have had the pleasure of working with Denovo Design on a number of Learning and Development projects. I believe that the success of the projects was due in large measure to the company’s commitment to best practise in all parts of their business. I view Denovo Design as an organisation which genuinely cares about its business, its people, the customer and the wider supply chain".
Silka Lyon-Fraser
Pulse Training and Development.
www.pulsetraininganddevelopment.co.uk
HOUGHTON STREET
“The designs at Houghton Street have been very well received by the Trust and our Customers, which indeed has set a real benchmark for the Trust to continue to aim for. Many thanks.”
Paul Mullane
Director of Regeneration and Investment, Halton Housing Trust
CHERRY MILL - SUSTAINABLE SUPPORTED ACCOMMODATION
“Excellent working relationship on this scheme. Denovo understood the end-users needs and kept them involved thoroughly throughout the process”
Anna Abbie
Plus Dane
"Working alongside staff from Denovo Design on the Cherry Mill build has been a very positive and rewarding experience.
The Consultation and involvement has been absolutely excellent, and the finished building more than meets expectations.
Books have been written about the effects of housing on social health,but this scheme is living proof".
Service Manager
Cherry Mill
TAYLORS LANE
"The Denovo Design brief was to provide a low maintenance solution which would have a major impact and lift the estate aesthetically. The quality and specification of the materials used won over the majority of customers, even customers who were adamant that the only solution would be brick walls.
Denovo Design attended customer consultations, produced and presented visuals of the scheme, addressed any concerns that customers may have had and also produced individual customer choice forms regarding the works.
Denovo Design have been professional, providing solutions to onsite problems, offering new alternative designs incorporating new materials and always available to offer assistance".
Sue Westwater
Managing Director
Liverpool Housing Trust
PINEHURST ESTATE
"I have always enjoyed working with Denovo. Their experience of sustainability and how to apply this to housing is extensive and imaginative. They put their knowledge of modern methods of construction as well as sustainability to good use well before these were established concepts and we worked together to achieve one of the very first EcoHomes accreditations of Very Good in 2002 at the Pinehurst Estate, Liverpool".
Inger Leach
Performance and Quality Manager
Plus Dane Group
COUNTESS OF CHESTER HOSPITAL
"Thank you to Aitziber and Dave following your recent completion of re furbishing our new department at Chester.
I found you very helpful and supportive and you both worked with us on all aspects, even my minor concerns.
Aitziber was right to encourage me to trust her on the colour scheme and it has gone down well with the team and visitors alike.
You were always approachable and listened with patience and understanding. The work was completed to a high standard and considering the task you had been given you produced a well lit environment, and made the most of the very little natural light we have, providing us with very pleasant working department.
Thanks Again".
Gill Bale
Specialist Practitioner Occupational Health
Clinical Manager OH - Chester and South East Cheshire
"Wirral Churches Ark Project has had a working relationship with Denovo Design for over 10 years. Our experience has been excellent, in that we have found them to be professional, realistic and helpful.
We, as a charity, offer accommodation, training and support. These need a variety of building facets built into one building, and Denovo, in designing our hostel in 1999, met that requirement fully.
Since then, in designing our extension, helping with increasing our housing stock, getting planning permission, and answering a myriad of smaller technical questions, we have found them to be our ally at all times".
Bob Jarvis
Finance and Development Manager
PARISH CHURCH OF ST JOHN THE BAPTIST
"I have enjoyed very much the cordial and friendly relationships with the firm, and at the same time have always been kept completely in the picture about progress, and developments along the way. In general I have had much of my own involvements well directed, and supported, and I have had no complaints at all about the professionalism involved and courteously offered".
Canon Paul Nener
BIS
"Your interest and support for the work this Department is doing on low carbon construction and sustainability is greatly appreciated. It is also heartening to see sustainability and innovation in construction valued so highly within your organisation".
Stephen Booth, Business Sectors Information Hub
"I would strongly recommend that anybody considering embarking upon a refurbishment project or similar considers the services of Denovo Design. Their overall management of the project from inception to completion was impressive not least of all because they were always readily available to answer queries and offer advice.
They were attentive and helpful throughout and remain on hand post-works as needed. They struck a balance between style and substance which was met nicely in an economical and timely fashion.It was a pleasure working with Frank and his professional team and I would be happy to recommend their services".
B M Ludzker, M.D, Kays Medical Ltd
THE GREEN ORGANISATION
"The Green Organisation is pleased to be associated with Denovo Design.
They have always demonstrated a high level of professionalism and reliability.
As winners of our Green Apple Environment Awards and subsequently valued members of The Green Organisation, Denovo Design have demonstrated their commitment to the environment and they set a standard for others to follow.
It is a pleasure to endorse their efforts".
Roger Wolens
SEACOMBE CHILDRENS CENTRE
"It has been a pleasure working with you and I have always found you supportive and committed to this project at Seacombe. I think we have come out of this with a great building and I would really like to thank you for your huge contribution.
The project would not have been a success without real partnership working and a commitment to creating a centre that was shaped by the views of local families and staff, which I felt you embraced and facilitated effectively.
Good luck with your future ventures.
Claire Campbell
Children's Centre Co-ordinator
WIRRAL METHODIST HOUSING ASSOCIATION
Denovo Design successfully engineered a solution to fit 4 disabled access family bungalows on an extremely difficult site.
The architecture stands out from anything in the surrounding area and makes a bold statement whilst providing much needed family accommodation to a high specification.
A number of highly regarded awards were received for the project further increasing client and end user satisfaction.
We are always delighted with the exciting solutions Denovo provide to meet ever more complicated client desires and the level of their service is second to none.
David Corran
Building Surveyor
Development Manager
LIVERPOOL CITY COUNCIL BUILDING CONTROL
Liverpool City Council Building Control and Denovo Design entered into a LABC Partnership agreement some years ago, on the back of an existing, strong and lucrative existing relationship, developed over a considerable period of time on many varied projects across the City.
The Partnership Agreement was a natural progression, and gave both parties opportunities to expand their Client Base for projects outside the Liverpool boundary. This has, subsequently, progressed to the undertaking of national schemes to cover areas such as London Camden and Holborn, Middlesbrough, and Cardiff, with the arrangement proving highly beneficial to both parties, and resulting in an enhanced service for Clients.
Denovo Design and Liverpool City Council Building Control are looking forward to continuing the relationship, and working together on projects for many years to come.
Steve White
Principal Area Surveyor Building Control
Liverpool City Council