Despite the challenging year, it’s been a busy 12 months for A’Bear & Ball Architects LLP. We worked on a number of exciting projects throughout 2020, including designing a new hotel, completing numerous self-build, extension and renovation projects and obtaining planning permission for a range of new contemporary dwellings.

Expanding the team

To strengthen our team and assist in the delivery of the Practice’s ever increasing residential project portfolio, we welcomed a new member of staff, Duncan Pritchard as a Part 2 qualified Architectural Assistant. He joined the team in the middle of March.

Duncan spent three days in the office before working protocols changed overnight. He wasn’t even given the chance to settle in and had to immediately start working from home due to the COVID-19 outbreak and UK lockdown. He created a makeshift office, adapted quickly and has been a great addition to our Practice.

Adapting to the new normal

During these unprecedented times, we worked more flexibly and focused on having a better work-life balance. Damon, co-founder and partner of A’Bear & Ball Architects, and his wife Felicity saw the birth of their second child in June.

Rob, co-founder and partner, spent more time on countryside walks with his dog, increased his cycling activities, all fitted around helping to ‘home school’ his children. Additionally, without having a commute, Duncan spent more time with his partner and one-year-old child and shared childcare duties.

With the quick change to working from home, the A’Bear & Ball Architects Team adapted and made use of a range of virtual communication tools. And we now have the capability to work more remotely in the future. This gives the Practice more flexibility moving forward.

Winning two awards

One of the biggest highlights of the year was the Practice winning two Build It Awards, which are the most sought-after honours within the self-build industry. We were named the Best Architect or Designer for a Renovation or Extension Project for Chapel House, and our Bolero Gardens project was named the Best Timber Frame Home.

Finishing projects and receiving positive feedback

Even through this challenging year, we saw many projects complete that we are really proud of. We were also able to get professional photographs taken on a range of finished schemes. On top of that, over the year, we were delighted with the positive client feedback we received through testimonials.

“Throughout the process, the architects have demonstrated their ability to meet the brief and produce an adventurous design while providing a thoroughly professional and effective service at every stage.” – Shrivenham Parish Council

“A’Bear & Ball Architects added a lot of value to our project both financially and aesthetically, and we couldn’t be more thrilled at the result.” – Private client, Bicester

“The design really met and exceeded our expectations for what was achievable with this building.” – Private client, Littleworth

“Wow! Initial reaction is indeed really exciting.” – Private client, Newbury

“It's been a very enjoyable experience and a fantastic outcome” – Private client, Bicester

We would like to say a BIG thank you to all of our fantastic clients and partnering consultants we’ve worked with over the last 12 months. We very much value your custom, and we’re thankful to have worked with you in 2020. We look forward to continue working with you throughout 2021.