Kingerlee: 155 Years of Excellence in Construction
Kingerlee, a distinguished name in the construction industry, has been shaping the South East of England since its establishment in 1868 by Thomas Henry Kingerlee. With a legacy spanning over 155 years, this family-owned business has continued to thrive, delivering high-quality projects across Oxford and beyond. Now in its fifth generation, the company remains committed to excellence under the leadership of Chairman David Kingerlee, the great-great-grandson of the founder.
A Look Back at 2024: Remarkable Projects
As 2025 unfolds, Kingerlee reflects on some standout projects completed last year. These projects showcase their versatility and dedication to preserving heritage while embracing modern functionality.
Hard to Find Farm, Buckinghamshire
Five Grade II listed barns were meticulously transformed into modern spaces, retaining their historic charm. The barns now serve as two residential dwellings, office spaces, and a versatile business unit, blending traditional aesthetics with contemporary needs.
The Helios Building, Harwell Campus
This ambitious 45,000-square-foot project across three floors set a benchmark for sustainable construction. Designed to BREEAM excellence standards, the Helios Building features a mix of meeting rooms, hot-desking areas, and shared social spaces, fostering collaboration and innovation.
Dragon School, Oxford
In 2024, Kingerlee completed a state-of-the-art music school at Dragon School. The facility boasts 24 practice rooms, two music classrooms, three ensemble rehearsal spaces, offices, and a music library. The external breakout space offers a tranquil environment for students and staff alike, combining functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Awards and Recognition
In 2024, Kingerlee was also named Responsible Employer of the Year at the UK Property Forum’s OxPropFest Awards. This accolade underscores their commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.
A Word from Emma Allinson
Emma Allinson, Business Development Manager and Kingerlee’s B4 Membership representative, shared her thoughts on her role within the company:
“I have worked in construction for most of my career and joined Kingerlee in 2017. I love working for a family-run company in a role that is different every day. My main job is to build relationships with our clients, consultants, and subcontractors to ensure our future pipeline is full of projects that suit our strengths. I am also heavily involved in our tender submissions, ESG plan, and marketing strategy.”
With over a century and a half of experience, Kingerlee continues to build not only structures but also lasting relationships with clients and communities.
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