Project Overview
This project comprises the demolition of existing buildings, retention, alteration and refurbishment of Norham Gardens, and construction of new student accommodation buildings.
Designed by Wright and Wright Architects, the project is housed in a mixture of new buildings and a remodelled Victorian villa.
The Norham St Edmund project will create 127 ensuite bedrooms, kitchens, communal areas, and gardens at the College’s site in Oxford.
The new buildings are designed to Passivhaus standards.
Sustainably sourced materials with low levels of embodied carbon have been prioritised throughout the design development. A prefabricated cross-laminated timber frame makes up the superstructure, with the new buildings faced in a mixture of brickwork and tiles. Features including gable ends, towers, chimneys, dormer windows, and ornamental ironwork compliment the Victorian characteristics of the surroundings.
Sustainability is at the heart of the project.
Energy for the 4,600m² development will be obtained from air source heat pumps and bi-solar green roofs, reducing the college’s costs, and boosting sustainability.
Alongside this, beautifully landscaped cloister gardens, mature trees, and an ecology pond will increase the biodiversity of the site by 88% and create a biodiverse landscape around the development.
Core Team
Carl Bennett
Board Director
Carl’s career in the construction industry began in 2004 when he joined SDC. Starting in a hands-on role, which later became the blueprint for the SDC Management Trainee Scheme, Carl gained extensive experience across various sectors, including gymnasiums, swimming pools, care homes, and large-scale science buildings. His diverse project involvement included Site Management, Contract Management, and project direction, which helped him develop a comprehensive understanding of the construction process.
In the early years, Carl contributed to projects such as the Sharnbrook School science block, Cardington Court care home, and a road project in Solihull. Despite the challenges of tight margins and economic pressure during the recession, he demonstrated exceptional problem-solving skills, managing complex logistics and leading teams to deliver projects successfully.
A pivotal moment in Carl’s career came in 2012 when he was appointed Construction Manager for a £20 million project at Admiral Insurance in Newport, Wales. Leading a team to deliver three floors of office space ahead of schedule, the SDC team were recognized with the prestigious Admiral Supplier of the Year award. This success propelled him through further leadership roles, including Contracts Manager and ultimately Board Director.
As a Board Director at SDC, Carl oversees key departments such as pre-construction, sales, estimating, and IT. His strategic input has been instrumental in modernising company operations, particularly through digitising processes and improving internal systems. Known for his methodical approach to project management, Carl ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the satisfaction of clients.
Throughout his career, Carl has maintained a strong commitment to team development and mentorship, fostering an environment of collaboration and growth. His leadership and dedication to SDC’s long-term success have cemented his reputation as a key figure within the company.
Elliot Smith
Project Manager
Elliot joined SDC in 2002 and has progressed to Project Manager, where he has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and successful project delivery. Elliot is involved in projects throughout the entirety of their lifecycle and is dedicated to achieving exemplary standards. He has worked on several projects with repeat clients such as Jaguar Land Rover. His communication skills and focus on stakeholder satisfaction consistently drives positive project outcomes.
Richard Smith
Commercial Manager
Adam Cripps
Project Design Manager
Adam has been with SDC since 2017 and is a skilled Design Manager who is involved in projects from the tender stage through to completion. Throughout the construction phase, he integrates seamlessly with the project delivery team, driving design information and implementing practical solutions. His expertise has been consistently proven on numerous complex projects, where his attention to detail and ability to collaborate with clients have ensured their expectations are not only met but often surpassed.
David Heard
Second Stage Leader
Matt Wells
Planning Manager
