Leading construction, refurbishment and fit-out contractor, Gilbert-Ash, today celebrated the completion of their new £5million headquarters in Boucher Place, Belfast.
The investment in the new state of the art building marks a significant milestone for the multi award-winning company.
To mark the occasion initially, the entire Gilbert-Ash team across the UK and Europe was part of a unique virtual celebration this morning which saw Managing Director Ray Hutchinson thank staff for hard work and resilience so far this year, he commented:
“Over the past few months, everyone who works for Gilbert-Ash has been genuinely amazing. Although it hasn’t been business as usual, it has been business as one and distance, it turns out, doesn’t distance us as a team. And for those returning to our sites across the UK and Europe this last number of weeks, we’re already working as one – collaborating with clients, partners and each other to help our clients on projects many of which are fundamental to our nation’s recovery and future prosperity.”
He added: “I am incredibly proud of the Gilbert-Ash team – this worst of times has brought out the best in us and we have lots to look forward to – not least moving into our brand new offices when it is safe to do so.”
Gilbert-Ash’s new headquarters on Boucher Place, can accommodate up to 100 staff. A magnificent main atrium has a full height exposed concrete wall that serves as a striking backdrop to a modern cantilevering staircase. The project was led from the outset by Gilbert-Ash Technical Director, Finbarr McMeel and was designed to be open and light, providing a welcoming and impressive first impression for visitors. The exterior of the building, constructed by a wide range of members from the Gilbert-Ash team, uses coloured glass and modern fibre cement boards to create a modern outline.
Staff health and well-being has been to the fore of Gilbert-Ash’s thoughts in developing the new headquarters, with a focus on promoting an active environment. This includes both fixed and standing workstations, break out glazed ‘pods’ and access to a fully equipped gym area.
Gilbert-Ash attributes its continued success on its ‘As One’ approach and its unique working culture and family environment as an employee-owned company. It continues to complete a broad portfolio of successful construction projects across sectors including arts and culture, workplace, hotels and leisure, science and technology, retail and residential.
Gilbert-Ash projects have been shortlisted for the Royal Institute of British Architects’ Stirling Prize with its work on the Everyman Theatre recognised in the winning of the coveted award in 2014.
Ray Hutchinson concluded: “It has undoubtedly been an incredibly challenging period for us all and it is very positive that the world is now emerging from the devastating effects of the Covid-19 pandemic. Our team have demonstrated remarkable resilience and dedication during this time, those working remotely and those on our client sites. In particular, we have been deeply encouraged by the feedback from clients commending our sites as an example of industry best practice with regards to health and safety.”
“While is remains a very challenging time for our industry, we wanted to use today’s occasion to reflect on the year to date, to thank everyone and to reiterate our commitment to continued success in the future for our team, our clients and our wider supplier network as well as their families.”
To learn more about Gilbert-Ash, visit www.gilbert-ash.com/
