James Mills

Background

About James Mills

An advocate of education, embracing a life of learning; Exploring new ideas researching current, past methodologies and trends. Through teamwork, listening and understanding different subjective as well objective guidance from each member new thinking emerges from a collaborative process. Supporting the perspective that design is fluid, adapting to each new scheme, listening to the end user, client, stakeholder and recognising they are pivotal throughout the process. With a background in design bids, research and development through further academic studies within both education and digital design, and meeting project targets through stages 2 to 5, has resulted in a recognised track record for providing high quality work. This has been supported through a number of accolades including nominations and publications during academic studies, followed by a professional career including successful design bids and awards for completed buildings. Working in the education sector for over 20 years working on over 30+ school projects, including completing a post graduate teaching degree, has resulted in a wealth of experience within the field. Delivering projects at every level, including Primary, Secondary, SEND & AP schools and Higher Education facilities, as well as, working alongside industry leaders on framework bids sharing knowledge and researching new ideas. Recent projects include wining bids for a number of AP and SEND schools in Essex, developing the Northstowe Learning Community 90mil Master Plan and delivering phase 1 with a 45mil Secondary and SEND school which won the best education building for 2020 timber awards. Northstowe embraced MMC, as a full CLT campus, expressing the natural finishes within the SEND building exploring biophilic design. Supporting a forward thinking approach to architecture and a sustainable future, current new school projects include NZC and passivhaus principles along side MMC timber solutions. Embracing a willingness to learn, with experience from domestic and international environments and endless enthusiasm, has developed a high technical awareness while integrating new and exciting design ideas in tight deadlines within budget constraints. A passion for architecture, hard work and dedication contributes to successfully delivering projects on time. A believer in collaboration, leading within the team and encouraging all the members to be equals within the process. It's not my design, it's ours, where colleagues / consultants / clients / stakeholders / and community form part of the wider team.