Projects & Case Studies
PILBEAM CONSTRUCTION BUILDS BETTER LIVES IN RUSTINGTON RETIREMENT VILLAGE
Elderly residents at a sheltered housing complex in Rustington are getting together more frequently after a modern community hall was completed by Pilbeam Construction.
Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society said since the hall was officially opened residents have been leading busier social lives, attending quizzes, film nights and some even had their own Christmas celebrations in the space.
The original 1970s communal building had reached the end of its life and was replaced by the awardwinning Booker Hall, which features sustainable design, vaulted ceilings, large skylights, a fully equipped kitchen and ample space for events.
Sussex contractor Pilbeam delivered the scheme alongside architects Studio Scott Taylor for owner Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society, which said the new facilities are also providing an events space for local community groups.
The scheme was highly commended in the Sussex Heritage Trust Awards 2025 in the public and community category.
Alan Corbett, managing director of Pilbeam Construction, said:“ We worked closely with Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society to ensure a smooth process and a positive experience for everyone.
“ It’ s great to hear how well used the hall has been since opening and that it’ s helped to create a much stronger sense of community for residents who are enjoying socialising in a modern and bright space.”
The project included the demolition of an outdated communal hall, laundrette and office facilities and replacing them with a Cross-Laminated Timber( CLT) framed hall, a modern laundrette, offices and new flats, all with sustainable design at their core.
The new structures are energy efficient and purpose built, providing a warm, welcoming and modern design which is tailored for residents, the wider community and employees.
Next to the hall, the laundrette offers a practical yet inviting environment, complete with a courtyard that allows for natural drying in good weather and a social space for residents located at the heart of the site.
The timber frame and glue-laminated beams lean into the sustainable feel of the whole complex.
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