As a practice director I have been instrumental in the strategic direction and growth of Willmore Iles. I’m proud of my role in creating a sustainable and successful business that has become employee owned, and I enjoy developing the next generation of talent within our practice.
After qualifying and working for 10 years as an architect, it became clear that the demands of the planning system were becoming increasingly complex so that negotiating positively with local planning authorities prior to application was critical to delivering value to clients. In response, in 2006 I took a master’s degree in planning that has shaped both my approach to design and informed the practice ethos. My thesis considered approaches to university campuses. This gave me the opportunity to investigate the practical implications of structured frameworks for development in Higher Education.
My interests in architecture are not only in designing great buildings and spaces, but also to consider how design can enhance a sense of community and well-being. This is particularly critical in the student space where a new residential community is created at the start of each academic year, and the residents are at a critical transition stage in their lives.
I’m father to two teenage children. I run to keep fit and ride motorbikes (and occasionally surfboards) for fun.