Knowles Celebrate Heritage
Complementing Knowles’ predominantly London-based project portfolio and client teams, Knowles’ focus within this realm been in development over the past year in response to the rapid growth in the number of projects in Oxfordshire, Berkshire and the Cotswolds. Operating in the Home Counties and specialist London projects, Knowles’ Heritage capability has had heavy emphasis on significant new-build residential projects and country house restoration, as well as commercial schemes in the hospitality sector.
“In 2018 we sensed an increase in the appetite for projects in the Home Counties with clients looking for the same benefits of substructure development as they do in London. We also saw that the skills we have in delivering complex, demanding structural contracts were transferable to major building projects. As principal contractor, Knowles is on site from the outset; planning and starting the enabling works, moving to the construction phase, which often does include excavation of the substructure as well as superstructure works, and then continuing with either the shell and core works, or proceeding to full fit-out including the coordination of all the specialist and finishing trades” says Robin Knowles, Managing Director at Knowles.
In 2018 we sensed an increase in the appetite for projects in the Home Counties with clients looking for the same benefits of substructure development as they do in London.
Robin Knowles, Managing Director at Knowles.
With projects already underway in the Home Counties and with the recent demise of a number of traditional builders, Robin saw an opportunity to create a dedicated team with the skills to work on major new-build country house contracts and historic building projects, outside London. With a wealth of experience in this field, Robin recruited Hugh Bickerton as a Projects Director for Knowles.
Robin continues; “Hugh has a well-established track record in working on high-end residential projects, holds strong relationships with design professionals, owns a large network of tried and tested subcontractors and suppliers and has an in-depth knowledge of local construction conditions in the Cotswolds and Home Counties. Hugh’s knowledge and professionalism enables us to build on the highly regarded and expert work we are known for in London, and I look forward to working with him and to creating opportunities for Knowles within this market”
Hugh Bickerton BSc Hons, Projects Director at Knowles “I have always respected Knowles, having seen their well organised and completed sites over the last few years. Having witnessed first-hand Robin’s enthusiasm, determination and ambition to grow the business, particularly outside London, I am thrilled to have joined Knowles. The team is forward-thinking, dynamic, well respected and professional. The expansion for Knowles fills a huge gap in the market, I am very much looking forward to working with past colleagues, professionals and clients. I’m excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.”
Robin Knowles is delighted that Aidan Mortimer will be supporting Knowles to promote and develop the business as a Historic Building Advisor. Aidan started his career in the building industry more than four decades ago, initially setting up his own business specialising in historic building restoration, before joining a large family-owned building company, where he rose to become Chief Executive.
“Having managed a wide range of contracts including major refurbishment projects for Oxford colleges, large private residential schemes and a series of construction projects for the chef Raymond Blanc at Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons, I am very much looking forward to sharing my experience and knowledge with Robin, Hugh and the team at Knowles”