We celebrated a significant milestone at our prestigious Sunningdale project this week with a traditional topping out ceremony.

With some careful crane control and coordination, we lifted the final piece into the stone pediment, completing the highest point of the structure. In keeping with tradition, our Site Manager brought a Yew tree along, a British custom to signify longevity. It’s believed toward off evil spirits, protect homeowners and provide good fortune for the life of the house.And it seemed to work! bringing glorious sunshine to the event.

We shared the milestone moment with key project partners from Ascot Design, White and Lloyd, Paul Irvine Engineering and Southern Area Brickwork, who have been working tirelessly on the stonework and brick detailing. We also toasted the success of the project so far, as well as sharing cake in the sunshine.

MD Christian Hale commented ““Reaching this milestone shows the exceptional teamwork and craftsmanship that’s gone into the project so far. It’s been fantastic to bring the team together and take stock at this important moment in the programme.”

The new neo-classical home features Palladian references in Ascot Design’s signature architectural style. Decorative brickwork and intricate stonework include a portico entrance, Doric columns, pediments, ornate external cornices, friezes and quoins, which you can spot on some of the images.

Although the topping out ceremony is about celebrating the highest part of a property,there’s still some way to go in the 70-week programme. Outside, we’ve completed the bullseye section in the pediment and the leadwork across the stone detailing. The property is watertight, and we’ve installed underfloor and laid screed inside. We’re in the process of boxing out internal rooms, including bathrooms.

Looking ahead, we’ll continue finer details on the portico once we’ve taken down the scaffolding. We’ve also started production on long-lead items including the kitchen, lift and impressive 2.6m tall internal doors. We’re currently refining plans for external facilities, including a separate garage and the addition of a tennis court.

We’re on track for autumn completion of this project that showcases our expertise in delivering complex, high-end residential homes.