The Art of Balance: Honouring Fathers in Our Creative Community

This Father’s Day, we did not just celebrate fatherhood, we measured strength in its many forms.

Together with Studio 7, The VI Therapy, we hosted ‘Who has the Strongest Hand Grip at GWS?’ event. A light-hearted but seriously fun competition that brought the community together in a burst of energy, laughter, and healthy rivalry. From artists to designers, dads to non-dads, everyone gave it a squeeze, and we discovered we have got some seriously strong hands (and spirits!) in the building.

Huge thanks to The VI Therapy for making this happen. Your energy, expertise, and creativity brought such a special vibe to the day. Everyone who took part came away smiling, a little sore, and totally uplifted.

But beyond the grip meters and the gains, this week was also about reflecting on what it means to show up at work and at home. We asked some of our studio holders who are also fathers to share their thoughts on balancing the two.

Robert (Richard F Gill & Associates, Studio 111)
It has historically been tricky to balance work life and home life, largely fed by the culture that seemed inherent in the construction industry at the time. This put a burden on my wife in dealing with bringing up the children and gave rise to other regrets regarding missing tangible bonding time with my girls. Whilst this can not be undone, my time with RF Gill has both facilitated, and coincided with, being able to dedicate more time to being at home. Covid obviously exacerbated this but even before this, my work life balance was tipping more towards life with a purchase of a home office in 2019.

Obviously as a business owner, there is a duty of care to your staff and a need to be present, particularly in a smaller company where I am looking to implement growth and change, but I am putting processes in place to empower my staff to be accountable and thus release me to focus more on my goals, business and personal.

With these goals written down, it allows me to ensure everything I am doing, whilst serving the business, ultimately looks to benefit having more time during the week with my girls – dedicated WFH days so I can be there to drop off or pick up if needed and making sure time with them is blocked out in my calendar.

I’m not saying that this solves all problems, and as I mentioned, I cannot change the past but being intentional about my time with them, putting them first in my short term planning and long term goals, ensures they are always the focus. As they always should have been.

Sharif (The VI Therapy, Studio 7)
Being my own boss has given me the freedom to prioritize my two kids in a way I couldn’t when working for someone else. I dedicate my mornings to them, free from distractions like phones, and aim to model the values I want them to learn through my own actions. I schedule clients in the afternoons and keep Wednesdays and weekends work-free to ensure quality family time. A quote from my father always stays with me: “You get 18 summers with them before they fly the nest”. That reminder keeps me focused on being present now, rather than overworking in hopes of a better future because the time we have with them is already precious and very limited.

Dan (MATA Architects, Studio 114)
How do I balance work with fatherhood? The answer to that question keeps changing! Just when I think I’ve figured it out my kids get a bit older and what worked for a while, isn’t really working that well anymore… So half the time I’m catching up. Trial and (a lot of) error…At the moment, I try to be home for dinner together at least 3 out of 5 times in the working week and to cook at least two of those. My daughter joins me for dog walks on the heath, if not every weekend, then at least every other…My son and I are playing a lot of backgammon in the evenings at the moment and, more recently as the days get longer, table tennis in Queens Park…

Thank you to all the incredible dads at GWS who remind us that strength is not just physical, it is in your consistency, your care, and your presence.

Here is to strong hands, open hearts, and showing up where it matters most.
Happy Father’s Day from all of us at GWS.

Brows by Mina: A Story of Beauty, Resilience, and Reconnection

By Argjenda Miftari

At Great Western Studios, we are proud to be home to a diverse and vibrant community of creatives, and that includes the incredibly talented Mina, founder of Brows by Mina. Specialising in brow and lash treatments, Mina combines expert artistry with a deeply personal story to help women feel beautiful, confident, and empowered in their own skin.

We sat down with Mina to hear more about her journey, the evolving beauty industry, and how she balances creativity with motherhood, all from her studio right here at GWS.

How did your journey into the beauty industry begin, and what inspired you to specialise in brow and lash treatments?

Before launching Brows by Mina, I was working as a bridal makeup artist. Over time, I became known for how I shaped and enhanced my brides’ brows, something I didn’t think much of at first, until people started booking me just for brows or asking me to teach them.

But my real journey began in 2018, during one of the most difficult times of my life. I have Alopecia Areata, and in 2018, I lost most of my hair – including my brows. It deeply affected my self-esteem. I remember barely recognising myself in the mirror. Then I discovered microblading, and that experience changed everything. It helped me feel confident again, and I knew I wanted to give that same feeling to others. That’s when Brows by Mina was born from personal experience, healing, and a desire to help others rediscover their beauty.

With over five years of experience, what changes have you noticed in brow and lash trends?

The beauty industry has definitely shifted toward more natural, timeless looks. Gone are the days of bold, blocky “Instagram brows” – now, it’s all about enhancing what you already have. It’s a softer, more effortless approach, which fits perfectly into busy lives. My clients want to wake up, feel confident, and head out the door in minutes – still looking like themselves, just enhanced.

What’s been the most memorable feedback you’ve received from a client?

It’s hard to choose just one. Every client I’ve worked with has shaped my journey in some way. They’re not just appointments – they’ve helped me grow, both professionally and personally. I’m always grateful for the kind words, but more than that, it’s the trust and the shared experiences that stick with me.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about getting their brows or lashes done for the first time?

It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous! Almost every client I meet feels the same at first. But once they see themselves in the mirror, something changes – they light up. That moment of confidence is so powerful. It’s not just about how you look; it’s about how you feel.

What does life outside the studio look like?

My world revolves around my family. I’m a proud mum to a beautiful daughter, and we’re expecting another little one soon – which I’m so excited about! Most of my time is spent making memories with my family, whether it’s cuddles, storytime, or little adventures. Life’s about to get even busier, but in the best way.

How important is your working environment to your creativity?

It’s everything. The space I work in influences how I feel, how I connect with my clients, and how creative I can be. GWS provides a functional, inspiring space that keeps me energised. It’s a place where creativity and calm coexist – and that’s exactly what I need in my line of work.

How does your journey align with the values of Great Western Studios?

My brand is built on community, creativity, and continuous growth – values that mirror the spirit of GWS. This space isn’t just where I work, it’s a place that supports me as a professional and as a person. It encourages expression, empowerment, and connection.

Quickfire Round with Mina

Thick or Sleek Brows? Sleek
Go-to Appointment Playlist? Listen on Spotify

If you’d like to discover more stories from inside Great Western Studios, stay tuned for the next ‘Meet the People’ blog series.

How Great Western Studios Supports Green Living?

By Argjenda Miftari

At Great Western Studios, we believe that creativity and sustainability go hand in hand. From our eco-conscious design to community-led green initiatives, GWS is proud to support a lifestyle that values both artistic innovation and environmental responsibility. Together, we are building more than just studios. We are building a conscious, connected, and sustainable creative ecosystem for the future.

Here is how we are building a greener, more sustainable creative hub in the heart of West London.

1. Sustainable architecture by design

Our purpose-built studios are designed to reduce environmental impact. Featuring a spacious three-storey atrium and expansive steel-framed windows, the building maximizes natural light which cuts down the need for artificial lighting and reducing overall energy consumption. The smart use of space and light promotes energy efficiency and a welcoming environment for creative collaboration.

2. Green transportation and waste solutions

We actively support sustainable commuting by providing secure, undercover bicycle parking and hosting regular bike MOT workshops in partnership with local businesses. Recycling, on another hand, is one of the objectives we aim to achieve high standards in. The intention is to promote a zero-landfill waste solution. The system used is a two-stream waste management system. This means separating the waste into two main streams namely mixed recyclables and General waste.

3. Wellness and community connection

Sustainability at Great Western Studios also means nurturing the people who work here. We offer wellness-focused activities such as yoga and pilates, along with shared communal spaces like our on-site café, atrium and courtyard garden. By encouraging connection and balance, we promote a lifestyle that is sustainable not just for the planet, but for our community’s wellbeing.

At Great Western Studios, we are proud to house a community of creatives who value sustainability as much as artistry. Many of our studio holders actively choose sustainable, local, and low impact practices in their work, ensuring that creativity and conscience go hand in hand. Here are just some of our studio holders leading the way in sustainable creativity.

4. Low-energy infrastructure

We have invested in energy saving technologies throughout the studios:

LED lighting systems installed across all shared spaces and corridors
Sun-light activated lights in outside areas to prevent unnecessary usage
Efficient HVAC systems that balance heating and cooling needs while reducing energy waste

Sans Matin

“All our outsoles are made from 60% natural rubber. Natural rubber is a very sustainable and flexible material extracted from rubber trees. Each rubber tree has a lifespan of 30+ years, in which no tree is tapped continuously over its lifespan. New rubber trees are then planted in their place creating a closed loop of sourcing the natural rubber.”

SHAG! Hair Salon

“We are an exciting new concept salon in West London offering a B corp product range married with a sustainable ethos and an up-cycling, community driven mentality.”

Dr Sam’s Skincare

“We’re working on making our products more sustainable and increasing the percentage of packaging using PCR (Post Consumer Recycled) materials where possible.”

Craster

“We are actively helping customers to reduce CO² emissions and achieve relevant accreditations through innovative designs that deliver exceptional guest experiences and offer intelligent solutions to the most wasteful elements of hospitality service. “

Tuggs

“So, our recipes pair meat, fish, and vegetables with insect protein to lower your carbon pawprint. Compared with farming animals, farming insects emits 96% less carbon, uses 95% less land and 94% less water but creates 100% of the protein.”

What3Words

“Following COP26, we are developing a set of bold commitments together with our partners, in an effort to reach net zero by 2030.”

Our commitment to a greener future

Great Western Studios is more than just a workspace. We are a community that cares about our environment, our neighborhood, and each other. By integrating sustainable practices into every aspect of our operation, we aim to inspire others in the creative and business worlds to do the same.

Join us in making a positive impact.

Inside The VI Therapy: Healing, Strength and Human Connection

By Argjenda Miftari

Founded in 2018, VI Therapy has built its reputation as a holistic therapy clinic focused on sporting performance recovery and general wellbeing. With qualified physiotherapists, massage therapists, and cupping specialists, the clinic blends science with empathy to create deeply personalised care.

We sat down with Sharif, founder of VI Therapy, and Gulnaz, a key member of the leadership team, to learn more about the inspiration behind the clinic, their approach to healing, and what’s coming next.

“VI” Means Movement – And So Much More

What inspired VI Therapy, and what does the name mean?
Sharif: VI Therapy was founded in 2018 with the goal of providing high-quality, tailored care – from sports injuries and postural issues to long-term pain management.
The name “VI” refers to the six major synovial joints in the body – a symbol of functional movement, mobility, and total body integration, which sits at the heart of our approach.

The Art of Personalised Therapy

How do you ensure every treatment plan is personalised?
Sharif: Every client is different – their history, lifestyle, and goals all matter. We use a combination of clinical expertise, ongoing research, and client communication to shape each treatment plan. Some clients want to be guided entirely, others need support building on existing rehab. Either way, we meet them where they are.

A Moment That Changed Everything

Is there a moment that affirmed the impact of your work?
Sharif: Yes, one that stays with me is a client with fibromyalgia – a complex condition with chronic pain and fatigue. After one cupping therapy session, he experienced a month of relief, something he hadn’t felt in years. Now, with regular treatments, he’s managing his symptoms and living a fuller life. It reminded me how deeply therapy can affect not just the body, but daily life.

From Solo Clinician to Growing Team

What’s been the biggest challenge in growing VI Therapy?
Sharif: Scaling the business, especially recruiting and leading a team. I’ve had to grow from being just a clinician to also becoming a business owner. Learning from others and staying open to mentorship has helped. We’ve moved from Shadwell to Wembley and now have a strong presence in Notting Hill – with more to come…

What’s Next: Innovation and Expansion

What’s next for VI Therapy?
Gulnaz: We’re launching a Hand Grip Strength Challenge for Father’s Day at GWS – with complimentary treatments for top participants. We’re also opening a second clinic in Park Royal, with a focus on women’s wellness treatments and broader accessibility.

Philosophy at the Core

What philosophy guides your approach to health and healing?
Sharif: I believe in strength – physically, mentally, and spiritually. A strong foundation makes everything else possible.

Shared Values with GWS: Wellbeing & Community

How do VI Therapy and GWS reflect shared values of wellbeing and community?
Gulnaz: We’re focused on access and inclusion. Whether it’s discounts for tenants, in-house massage days, or creating welcoming environments – we aim to make care both effective and approachable..

What role does GWS play in the experience you provide?
Gulnaz: The architecture and openness of GWS naturally support relaxation and healing. Clients often comment on the space – it feels professional, calming, and a bit like a sanctuary in the city.

A Few Final Touches…

If relaxation were a scent, what would yours be?
Sharif: Eucalyptus and Oud
Gulnaz: Lavender

Favourite form of self-care that costs nothing?
Sharif: Cycling
Gulnaz: Walking

During a massage – silence or conversation?
Sharif: Depends on the client — they lead.
Gulnaz: Quiet reflection tends to offer the best results.

VI Therapy continues to grow not just as a clinic, but as a community. Their mission is simple yet powerful: make people feel stronger, move better, and live more fully with one treatment at a time.

WFH? At Great Western Studios, it means ‘Working from Here’

By Argjenda Miftari

When most people hear ‘WFH’, they think of home offices, Zoom calls, and the occasional battle with the Wi-Fi. But at Great Western Studios, we have redefined what it means to work remotely. For us, ‘WFH’ stands for ‘Working from Here’, and once you experience it, you won’t want to go back.

Here is why working from an office, especially one like GWS, can transform the way you and your business thrive.

– Studio spaces that inspire

At Great Western Studios, we believe your environment shapes your creativity. That’s why we offer flexible studio spaces ranging from 150 sqft to over 2000 sqft – perfect for teams of all sizes. But it does not stop there.

Our studios open up to a range of collaborative and relaxed working zones:

Front Atrium Area
Comfy sofas and tables ideal for switching up your scenery.
Back Atrium Area
Spacious tables and chairs perfect for team catch-ups or informal meetings.
Phone Pods and Meeting Rooms
For when privacy matters.
On-site Café & Courtyard Garden
Work in comfort or unwind with a coffee in hand.

Your workspace should work for you, and here, it truly does.

– Built-in collaboration

GWS is home to over 75 creative businesses, from architects to fashion designers, photographers to beauty brands. With so many creative minds under one roof, opportunities for cross-industry collaboration happen naturally.

Whether it is spontaneous idea-sharing in the atrium or joint projects between studio holders, GWS cultivates a culture where creativity and teamwork thrive. It is not just about having an office – it is about being part of something bigger.

– Sense of community

GWS is not just a collection of studios – it is a vibrant community. Here, you will find a support system of fellow creatives, founders, and entrepreneurs who understand your journey.

To help foster this community, we host monthly events that go beyond networking:

Creative workshops
Wellness sessions
Business meetups
Pop-up markets and more

These gatherings and events are designed to spark connection, collaboration, and inspiration.

– Marketing that moves the needle

When you join GWS, you do not just get a space, you get a platform. Our dedicated marketing and studios coordinator is here to help you shine.

We support our studio holders with:

Social media promotion (Instagram shoutouts, newsletter features)
Personalised blogs
Onboarding highlights on our website
The famous A40 Billboard space (your business in lights!)

It is all about helping your work get the attention it deserves.

– Dedicated team

From the moment you step in, you will feel the support of a team that genuinely cares. With 24/7 access via fob system, you will always be greeted by our amazing front of house team, and our security team keeps things running smoothly after hours. Behind the scenes, our studio manager, marketing coordinator, and on-site maintenance team are always available to support your studio needs.

We take pride in knowing our studio holders personally because your success is our success.

At Great Western Studios, we are not just offering office space. We are offering a creative ecosystem where businesses grow, ideas come to life, and people connect.

Get in touch today and come see what it is like to ‘Work from Here’.

Unleashing strength and confidence through movement – A conversation with the founder of Savage Pole Studio

By Argjenda Miftari

From corporate life to climbing poles, Ayuna has built more than just a studio. Savage Pole Studio and Fitness is a community, a creative outlet, and a celebration of body confidence. We sat down with her to talk about inspiration, challenges, and what makes Savage truly savage.

“I don’t consider myself a professional pole dancer, I wish I was!”

She laughs when I ask how she developed her personal style.
“I just genuinely enjoy it. I get so much inspiration from the incredible dancers I’ve met, either in person or through social media. And honestly, my own team is full of talented people. I’m learning from them all the time.”

Her journey didn’t start in a studio, but in the corporate world, a world that eventually felt too tight for the creativity she wanted to express.

When I ask about Savage’s deeper mission, her eyes light up.

“Pole dancing made me feel completely different about myself.”

“There’s something so powerful about realizing what your body can do. I was doing tricks I thought only gymnasts could pull off. After long, draining days in the office, it became a kind of therapy for me. And when you’re hanging upside down on a pole, trust me, your brain doesn’t have space to think about stress or emails!”

She explains how that feeling, the mind-body disconnect from the chaos of everyday life, became the heart of Savage’s philosophy.
“It’s more than fitness. It’s confidence. It’s a support system. When someone nails a trick for the first time and the whole class claps, it’s priceless. You feel seen. You feel strong.”

“The name Savage is intentional. We want people to unleash their strength.”

Branding Savage wasn’t just about a look or logo. It was about a message.

“We’re still shaping our identity, but what’s always been clear is that we want people to feel empowered. You don’t need to be a pro or have a dancer’s body to start. Anyone can learn. Anyone can feel powerful.”

It’s this inclusive message that resonates with her community and keeps the energy in the studio buzzing.

“I genuinely listen to my team. I learn a lot from them.”

When I ask her how she keeps morale high among instructors and staff, her answer is refreshingly honest.
“Open communication. I take their feedback seriously, and we try new things together. It’s collaborative. It’s a team.”

For anyone hesitant to give pole a try, her advice is simple:

“Don’t be intimidated. We all start somewhere.”

“Everyone feels shy at first. But pole classes are full of supportive, kind people who just want you to have fun. You’ll surprise yourself with how quickly you build strength – and how much you’ll love it.”

Looking ahead, Savage has ambitious plans.

“We want to grow. I want to bring pole to as many people as possible.”

Whether that means expanding class types, launching new programs, or even opening another location, the studio’s mission remains the same: making pole fitness accessible, fun, and empowering.

Being based in Great Western Studios has played a big part in shaping that experience.

“People walk in and say, ‘Wow, this place is amazing.’ And they’re right!”

“Being here gives us a creative edge. The vibe of the building, the community – it’s such a cool environment. Plus, being close to Portobello, Little Venice, and Bayswater makes it special.”

The studio’s creative location allows students to linger after class – grab a coffee, co-work, or just soak in the atmosphere.

Before we wrap up, I throw her a few fun questions. She grins, ready for the quick-fire round.

Describe Savage Studio in 3 words.
“Fun, cozy, supportive.”

First thought when you think of pole dancing?
“It’s so cool. Even now, when I see someone do a new trick or choreography, I’m like, ‘Whoa.’ It pushes me to keep practicing.”

If you had a pole dancing superpower, what would it be?
“Spider-Man hands! Webs to stop me from falling!”

Dream celebrity student?
“Madonna. And it could still happen.”

Post-class go-to snack?
“Water, and a big hearty meal.”

Want to unleash your inner savage?
Visit savagepolestudio.com or drop by Great Western Studios to try a class, meet the team, and see what the hype is all about.

As part of our Meet the People series, we sat down with MATA Architects, a dynamic architectural practice based at Great Western Studios, to learn more about their vision, current projects, and what lies ahead.

Known for their thoughtful, design-led approach, MATA Architects work across a wide range of residential projects.

With a growing portfolio and a passion for crafting spaces that truly enhance the lives of those who use them, we’re excited to see what’s next for this talented team.

What drew you to Great Western Studios, and how does this space influence your work or creative process?

Location, location, location! It’s close to home which is in Queens Park, which is nice and simplifies at least one part of life… Our projects tend to be mostly central and North London based, bar the occasional outlier. So, this is a convenient place in the middle. As a small practice it’s nice to have our own studio space (overlooking the canal, which we love) but also to be part of something bigger, a community. There’s a creative energy in the building that’s a really positive thing to be immersed in. It’s also great to have
other architects in the building that we can relate to professionally and share lunchtime CPD’s with. And I can bring my dog to work with me, regularly walking him along the canal to little Venice, Paddington, Golborne Road etc for lunches…

How would you describe your architectural style or design philosophy?

I’m not sure I can talk about a style per se, or even a philosophy. There are areas of interest that we try to explore, as a practice, through our work. There are some common themes and threads that run through the work, though they may find very different expressions from one project to the next.

At the core of what we do is an interest in building, making and craft… in how things are put together. We particularly enjoy working with natural materials in their many forms, such as stone, timber, rammed earth: timeless and fundamental building blocks that have been used since time immemorial to create shelter. Elemental building ingredients that have been used over centuries in many forms as modes of production and construction technologies evolve. It’s this re-imagining of how to work with age old materials, combined with modern technology, that we enjoy. Simple materials put together in new ways.

Every project is an opportunity to refine an idea or a detail that came before – either by us, or others before us. It’s about craft and an ambition to refine that craft with every project. This overlaps with an interest in sustainable construction and a striving to minimise our impact on the environment. Natural materials tend to have smaller carbon footprints. Stone extraction, for example has become more efficient (cheaper) and with much reduced environmental impact (a lot less use of water as in the past).

The development of CAD CAM technology enables designers to harness the powers of digital fabrication techniques to create forms that once required master craftsmen (see, for example, the completion of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, almost a century after it’s architect, Gaudi’s death, made possible by modern CNC technology).

What project are you most proud of and why?

The last project we completed in December last year, which we called ‘Vaulting Loft’ and the next one to complete (June/ July this year) that we call ‘Panoramic House’. Both of these projects are expressions of the best kind of collaboration with private residential clients who have simultaneously placed a very high degree of trust in us to imagine and deliver ambitious transformations and extensions of their homes, whilst challenging us, pushing us at every turn to take considered risks. I’d love to share completed photos of ‘Vaulting Loft’ here but it’s due to feature in Elle Decoration’s October edition and we’ve been asked to keep it under media blackout until then.

Panoramic House

Can you share a bit about your design process, from concept to completion?

It starts by listening and asking lots of questions. Ultimately the brief is born out of our clients unique personalities and the circumstances they find themselves in when they come to us (often at milestone moments in their life: just had or expecting a baby, just sold their business, downsizing etc…) and the unique characteristics of their site/ property.

Our design then begins to evolve in response to our interrogation and analysis of these two things: our clients unique needs and the unique nature of their site. We develop our ideas through sketches, 2D drawings, 3D digital and physical models. With every project, we’re on a quest for simplicity, stripping away and paring back the superfluous to reveal something essential about an idea. We try to articulate that idea around a story or narrative early on in the process: something we can always go back to and assess the evolving design against.

Like what you see? Do get in touch with Mata to discuss your next project

We’re celebrating the incredible creative and innovative talent here at GWS with an epic Spring giveaway – and you could be the lucky winner!

We’ve teamed up with FOUR of our amazing studio holders to create a prize worth over £300.

Scan the code or click here to take you to the post to enter and see what you could win!

As part of our Meet the People series, we sat down with R F Gill & Associates, a structural engineering firm at Great Western Studios, to discover more about their projects and find out what’s next for them. Specialising in Structural and Civil Engineering Design, Subsidence and Insurance Claims, Party Wall Act duties, and Temporary Works, they play a crucial role in shaping safe and sustainable buildings for their clients’ lifestyles.

Basement Pool project

Can you tell us about the history of R F Gill & Associates?

Founded in 1969 by Ian Gill’s father, the firm has a long history of delivering successful projects. Ian and his late brother, Lance, built on this legacy, particularly in structural design and subsidence cases. Rob joined in 2019, bringing extensive experience across multiple sectors. Together, Ian and Rob uphold three core principles:

Expertise: Decades of experience in structural engineering services.
Personalised Service: Tailored solutions for unique client needs.
Comprehensive Solutions: Covering everything from home alterations to insurance claims.

Why did you choose Great Western Studios as your base?

We have been at GWS for a number of years now and the light open building is always a source of compliment from all our clients and partners who visit. We wanted to be present in the communities we serve so that we can offer our clients the comfort of seeing that we have an acute knowledge of the area, know the buildings in the area and so know the appropriate solutions. With an office in Essex and now at Great Western Studios, we can better service London and the South East. GWS also provides a creative hub, fostering engagement with architects, homeowners, and developers.

What types of projects do you typically work on and are there any that stand out?

We are proud of all our projects and the value we provide all our clients hoping that they feel that focus and attention. We specialise in residential projects, from simple wall openings to full-scale house refurbishments, extensions, and new builds. We also offer building appraisals, party wall surveying, and subsidence investigations. Our expertise ensures homeowners get safe, practical, and future-proof solutions.

The new website is coming soon. Come take a look to find out more.

Basement Rebar project

We’ve all heard about subsidence, but what are the common signs we should look out for?

Understanding the early signs of subsidence can help people take action before the situation worsens. It’s a serious issue that can cause costly repairs if not addressed early. However, it is important to know that not all cracking is a sign of subsidence — and even more importantly, that cracking is not necessarily a sign of impending structural failure.

Key indicators include:

Cracks that suddenly appear, especially vertical or diagonal ones widening at the top or bottom.
Movement in doors and windows, causing them to stick or not close properly.
Nearby trees, which can contribute to subsidence, especially on clay soil. Not all cracks are serious, but if you’re concerned, we can assess and advise on the best course of action.

For more information, check out the blog section on the new website.

Party wall matters can be complex. What challenges do clients face?

Many don’t realise they need a Party Wall Award to avoid disputes. We guide clients through the process, ensuring smooth communication with neighbours and compliance with the Party Wall Act. Even if a formal award isn’t required, we always recommend a Schedule of Condition to document the building’s state before work begins.

Do you have a building project in the pipeline? Let us have a look and advise on both the structural requirements and any Party Wall implications.

How do you assist with planning applications?

There will be cases where your building project will need a structural engineer’s input in the planning application. It is important to be aware of these as you may need to factor this in in terms of cost and/or programme.

While many projects don’t require structural input during planning, some — like basements, heritage buildings, and large demolitions — demand detailed engineering reports. We help clients navigate this, ensuring compliance while supporting their vision.

Are you keen on using off-site fabrication? Or maybe you want to explore rammed earth? Get in touch and let us discuss your project and how we can help.

What trends in structural engineering are you most excited about?

Off-site fabrication: Speeds up construction and reduces waste.
Traditional techniques: Combining heritage methods with modern efficiency.
Sustainability: We prioritise timber and cement alternatives to reduce carbon impact. While trends matter, we focus on solutions that truly benefit our clients and their projects.

What’s next for R F Gill & Associates? Any upcoming projects or goals you can share?

Expanding our commitment to sustainable engineering.
Partnering with Occupational Therapy consultants to design adaptable homes.
Launching our new website – a hub for clients to learn and connect with us.
Growing our team to help more clients achieve their ideal home transformations.

Want to discuss a project? Come and visit us in Studio 111 for a chat and a coffee!

Yoga and Pilates classes with X-Club

Calling all Yoga and Pilates fans… X-Club are back at Great Western Studios from this week offering FREE pilates and yoga classes to studio holders.

Re-energise with our lunchtime Mat Pilates and Yoga classes:

**TUESDAYS: 1.30pmPM – Pilates

**THURSDAYS: 1.30pm – Yoga

*Ts & Cs apply.