Franklin Ellis Successfully Completes RIBA Principal Designer Training

Recently, our team completed the RIBA Principal Designer training, marking a pivotal step in our delivery of projects under the new Building Safety Act.

Why the Principal Designer training is essential for Franklin Ellis Architects

With a significant portfolio in multi-unit residential schemes, our commitment to designing for safety remains resolute. We will continue offering our design expertise for Higher Risk Buildings under the Building Safety Act, defined as residential developments of 7 or more storeys. The new role of Principal Designer for these developments is now a cornerstone of the services we extend to our valued clients.

Photo – British Waterways, Nottingham Castle Wharf – Planning Approved

Photo – Sandhills, Nottingham City Centre

Photo – The Barnum, Nottingham City Centre

Photo – The Wullcomb, Leicester City Centre

Senior members of our team recently participated in the inaugural RIBA Principal Designer course. This training covered the regulations, their context, and background. Case studies and real-world examples provided practical insights into the nuances of the role of Principal Designer and Design Risk Management.

The course has further strengthened our already robust understanding of managing safety through building design, drawing on the insights by our Internal fire working group, which has been actively contributing to our Practice’s knowledge base for a number of years.

So who are the FEA Principal Designers?

Matthew Kirk – Associate Architect

A specialism in PRS high-rise design and delivery, including The Wullcomb – Leicester, The Barnum – Nottingham, and Cathedral One – Derby, recently submitted for planning at Gateway 1.

Ben Dudley – Director

Director responsible for Health & Safety, Fire Safety, and FEA Fire Working Group.

Chris Dixon – Associate Architect

Expert in BIM and Lead of FEA Fire Working Group research. Chris has worked on several residential buildings over 18m, including the British Waterways Building conversion to apartments, and the Sandhills and York House student accommodation schemes.

In a proactive move, we’ve communicated key procedural changes to our tall-building clients. While many are familiar with the Gateway 1 requirement, we’ve highlighted the transformative nature of Gateway 2. This phase demands fundamental changes to the full technical design process before on-site work can commence. Completing Gateway 3 becomes the key to occupancy, with both Gateway 2 and 3 expected to be each determined within a 12-week period, introducing strategic pauses in the project program.

Beyond our immediate tall-building projects, we recognize the broader industry shifts initiated by the Building Safety Act. Building Regulation submissions are undergoing significant changes, placing the onus on design teams to demonstrate compliance and completion, supported by evidence of the implemented design.

If you’re intrigued by the design services we offer at Franklin Ellis Architects, especially in light of these transformative industry changes, please contact us for more information.