OR May 2026

With the close of another rewarding month, please see below for the most recent studio and project news from ORC.

Design for All 2026 Programme Launch

As a multi-disciplinary practice, OR are incredibly proud to be part of The Design for All support programme which has officially launched for 2026. Continuing its mission to make high-quality design expertise accessible to those who need it most.

Each year, the programme provides a small number of charities and community organisations with access to a multidisciplinary team of built environment professionals. As part of this ORC contributes it expertise in MEP, acoustic engineering, lighting design sustainability and AV integration. This early-stage support helps organisations develop their ideas, test feasibility and build a strong foundation for future delivery.

Previous recipients have included initiatives ranging from community hubs and learning spaces to accommodation for families in need, demonstrating the wide-reaching social impact that thoughtful, well-supported design can deliver.

If you know of a charity or community group who could benefit from this opportunity, encourage them to apply and take the next step in bringing their project to life.

Learn more

Supporters

OR Consulting - MEP / Acoustics / Lighting / Sustainability / AV Integration Alma_Nac - Architecture

Simple Works - Structural Engineering

Stockdale - Project Management NTA Planning LLP - Planning Consultancy

Studio News
Graduate of the year

We’re delighted to share that one of our graduates, Sam Burlinton has applied for the CIBSE ASHRAE Graduate of the Year Award.

Sam’s application reflects not only his hard work and development to date, but also his commitment to pushing forward innovative, sustainable solutions in our industry. We’re incredibly proud to support him as he takes this exciting step in his career.

Planning Approval Granted
Clwb Ifor Bach

ORC Cardiff is proud to announce that planning has finally been awarded to a scheme that is close to it heart. The refurbishment to the iconic venue Clwb Ifor Bach on Womanby Street in Cardiff.

As environmental and acoustic designers, we focused on enhancing performance while keeping the venue’s character, improving sound quality, reducing carbon, and managing impact on the surrounding area.

The design also boosts accessibility, upgrades facilities, and introduces flexible lighting and new roof spaces.

A brilliant step forward for a true cultural anchor and we can’t wait to see it come to life.

Wiener Holocaust Library

We are delighted to announce that the Wiener Holocaust Library has been granted planning approval for a major extension. ORC have been appointed as building service engineers on this significant development.

A key focus is the building’s environmental strategy with systems designed to maintain stable internal conditions essential for occupant comfort and the preservation of sensitive archive materials. Detailed analysis of the existing building informed a suite of overheating mitigation measures, including enhanced ventilation, solar control, and careful management of internal gains, all thoughtfully adapted to the constraints of the heritage fabric.

The result is a low-carbon, future-ready environment that supports the library’s operational needs while safeguarding its invaluable collections. A culturally important project that we cannot wait to come to life.

Awards
The Africa Centre Highly Commended Civic Trust Awards

The Africa Centre has been awarded Highly Commended at this year’s Civic Trust Awards.

Located in the heart of Southwark, The Africa Centre is a carefully considered retrofit that breathes new life into an existing building while celebrating its cultural significance. The scheme delivers a vibrant and flexible space designed to support community, culture, and collaboration.

Sustainability was central to the design approach. By prioritising reuse and refurbishment over demolition, the project has significantly reduced embodied carbon while enhancing the building’s environmental performance. Targeted interventions have improved energy efficiency, internal comfort, and overall usability, ensuring the building is well-equipped for the future while respecting its heritage.

This has been a hugely rewarding project to be part of, delivered through close collaboration with a team committed to achieving both environmental and social value. Recognition at the Civic Trust Awards is a testament to that shared effort.

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