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 award-winning 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 the 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 brighter 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The project included the demolition of an outdated communal hall, laundrette and office facilities and replacing them with a Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) framed hall, a modern laundrette, offices and new flats,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.

Locally sourced flint, an element of locally sourced bricks and a zinc roof with concealed gutters ensure the buildings are not only visually appealing, but also environmentally sound.

Emily Scott, director of Studio Scott Taylor, the project’s architectural firm, said: “From the outset we worked closely with the client team to nurture a project that incorporates their specific needs & creates welcoming spaces for staff and residents.

“This project seamlessly integrates modern and traditional construction methods, making use of locally sourced materials, resulting in a unique civic building that enriches the local community and enhances the lives of those it serves.

“The project has a strong emphasis on sustainability incorporating prefabricated timber construction methods, biodiverse planting and renewable energy sources. This includes solar panels, air source heat pumps and a natural ventilation strategy. At its heart, the project is designed to foster connections and promote the wellbeing of both residents and staff, reflecting a people-centred approach to architecture.”

The communal spaces are available for hire by the wider Rustington community, creating an additional revenue stream for the housing society and strengthening local ties.

The new office buildings provide employees with a collaborative workspace with large windows providing generous daylight and views to the surrounding planting.

Sally Shepherd CEO Littlehampton and Rustington Housing Society said: “Since the communal hall officially opened, our residents have been holding a number of events which is making them feel less isolated.

“For those residents who do not have or do not see their friends and family very much they can become lonely – the new hall is helping them integrate with others on a much more regular basis.”

Community groups and residents who want to hire the hall can find out more here: https://www.rustingtonhall.co.uk/

For further information visit: https://www.pilbeamconstruction.co.uk/