When our Associate, Gareth Williams was approached for his favourite project from the last 15 years at Thinking Buildings he replied with “can I have two?” There’s always one isn’t there, and it’s usually Gareth 😉 , but then on reflection, perhaps one standout project in all that time is a big ask when you’ve been a part of so many great projects. So this week we bring you Gareth’s journey and thoughts about two of his favourite projects, Marlbrook Primary School and Kingham Hill Sports Centre.

He says ‘perhaps tellingly, both projects began as design competitions. Darren and I entered the two bids within a few weeks of each other and, if I’m honest, we probably went into both as the underdogs. It felt as though we might be there to make up the numbers and get Thinking Buildings in front of the clients and contractors involved, rather than with a realistic expectation of winning the work. To make an impression and demonstrate what we could offer. Winning would be a bonus.’

However, both projects and the complex needs that needed to be addressed, gave Gareth lasting lessons and valuable insights into why he does what he does and why he loves it so much.

‘The work is not ultimately about the building itself, but what that building allows people to do and how it makes them feel.’