Onsite Stories.
We sit down to speak with Max Bontoft, our Project Architect and recent New York City marathon finisher, about his journey to Vabel and how his love affair with running may have something to do with his commitment to quality and reputation amongst colleagues, for going above and beyond.
Tell us a little about yourself and your journey to Vabel?
I’ve been working at Vabel for the last five years, having completed my MA at the Royal College of Art, London, I joined Vabel as an architectural assistant working on Vabel Portland and Vabel Lawrence, since progressing to Project Lead on Vabel Haverstock.
I started my career working in smaller offices which meant I was quickly afforded greater responsibilities on key projects than I otherwise would have, working as part of a larger team. It allowed me to develop a more rounded and methodical approach to my work, standing me in good stead when it came to driving the progression of design packages, assisting with the chairing of meetings, and liaising with consultants and subcontractors.
Tell us something about your life away from work, we won’t find on your CV.
I’m something of a runner, making the most of my free time to clock up the miles. I’ve raced everything from the mile to 10,000m on the track, travelled across the UK for road relays and cross-countries. I’ve twice qualified for the British Marathon Championships and recently finished the New York Marathon.
For me, when the deadlines pile up or I’ve got a tough problem to work through, I find clarity and inspiration in going for a run. It helps to break up the day, refocus the mind and help me think through solutions.
How does a typical day at a Vabel project unfold for you? Who takes charge of the playlist? Are there any must-do rituals for you to kick off your working day?
I’m more of an early bird. You’ll either find me in the studio trying to make the most of the peace and quiet before the morning queries start rolling in, or on site, assisting with the coordination of trades and reviewing the previous day’s work. If I haven’t already picked up a coffee on my way in from any one of our local Kentish Town artisans, getting the kettle on and the cafetière filled is a must first thing. And with an empty office, there’s no one to fight over the Sonos playlist!
What led you to Vabel?
I was initially intrigued by the multi-disciplinary nature of Vabel. The idea of developers, contractors and designers all working together under one roof was an alluring one. Traditionally these disciplines are quite disparate, which had always felt counter-intuitive to me, considering we’re all working towards the same goal – the realization of a building.
At Vabel, the architect is given a much more central role and seat at the table. As a result, we gain exposure to all aspects of the construction process typically lost when working in a more traditional practice. Here our skills are better valued and implemented more effectively, with the age-old title of ‘Master Builder’ feeling apt once more.
Who and what inspires you?
Living and working in and around London throughout my career has surrounded me with inspiration. I’ll often take the time to walk around new developments, visit exhibitions and simply look up! With such a wide array of construction work going on in recent years, there’s always plenty to see.
Homes with Character is cornerstone to our philosophy. Tell us a little about Vabel Haverstock and the most distinguishing features of this project?
The simplicity of the façade and its sweeping statement curves has got to be the most striking feature. The white brickwork running from base to peak lends itself towards the Bauhaus aesthetic and treats the building as more of a sculptural object.
Carrying this theme through to the interiors allowed us to have fun with the material palettes and colour schemes, achieving what has become an equally striking series of spaces to live and wake-up in.
What’s been most challenging about bringing Vabel Haverstock to life? What impact has this on you as an architect?
Working within the constrained nature of the site presented several challenges, both in-terms of design and build. With a school hugging the North and West boundaries, the Salvation Army to the East and a Northern Line Tube tunnel running below ground, it presented a number of limitations. It forced us to plan well and think creatively, ensuring works progressed efficiently and neighbours were happy. It taught me that with constraints, come opportunities!
What gets you through those challenges?
When it came to Vabel Haverstock, asides from having such passionate colleagues to problem solve with, lunchtimes were always sacred to the team. Being on Camden Market’s doorstep we were spoiled for choice with an array of tasty food stalls, and Morrison’s Hot Food Counter does in-fact serve an irresistible green curry every Wednesday.
What’s your dream project as an Architect?
I’m always inspired by the challenge of balancing beautiful high-quality design, against the limitations of budgets and space. Although this applies at all levels of the market, there’s no denying as you rise to the higher end, the prospect of exploring new ways to elevate the living experience is exciting.
Max is a talented member of the Vabel team who embraced every element of bringing the Vabel Haverstock to life. To learn more about our team, our projects or best food stalls in Camden Market please get in touch here.
