What is outlined in Our Approach has widespread application. KILO is active in a number of different sectors, as follows.
- Churches, charities, and community: we are currently working for several churches from a number of different denominations. Sometimes that work is totally focussed on the various worship and ancillary spaces. More often than not the work has a dual-focus, either in adding wider community spaces, or in adding the housing or commercial spaces which are often required for funding.This is a vibrant sector, limited only by aspects of financial viability. Churches are increasingly ambitious on several fronts, and want the housing to produce local benefit, not just cash. Churches and charities are increasingly engaged in ‘filling the gaps’ in society where others no longer offer provision. KILO has long-term commissions with organisations who have a passion for this work, and who control multiple locations.
- Housing: the background of the directors of KILO is substantially connected to housing and urban renewal, having worked for several Registered Providers. That expertise has been crucial to current projects, where a large percentage are mixed-use with housing as the largest part of the mix.Some of that has been housing for open-market sale, some for key-workers, and others for social rent. We have also worked on specific housing ‘products’ designed to match particular needs, for example: young workers on living wage.
- Education: is a substantial element of KILO’s work. We have worked for two private schools, three academies, and two state schools. That work has generally been connected with three issues: expansion (particularly of Early Years provision), curriculum development, and new entrances.It is another area where Masterplanning is critical, because school life is so demanding that there can be real pressure on strategic thinking.
- Commercial: KILO has worked for two private owners of commercial property. The most significant project being the complete reconstruction of a 5-storey building in Tunbridge Wells. Similar principles apply to the other sectors, particularly so now that residential is increasingly included at the upper levels above shops and offices.
