I have worked at Willmore Iles Architects since 2004, joining the practice as an Architectural Assistant. After completing my professional qualifications with the practice in 2007 I rose to the position of Associate Director, and in August 2025 will be appointed a Board Director.

Background:

I have worked on a diverse array of projects throughout my career, but for the past 15 years, I have been responsible for delivering several of our largest student accommodation schemes. I now lead the practice’s on-campus student accommodation projects, assuming a university-facing role while collaborating closely with the design team and contractor, bringing experience in a variety of construction methodologies and applying them efficiently within the sector. My methodical approach to technical design, combined with a keen attention to detail and knowledge of the ongoing operation of our projects in a higher Education setting, ensures added value at every stage of the project.

Professional Interests:

I have a strong interest in the efficient management of competitive bid work and the technical application of conceptual design to facilitate a smooth transition from planning to on-site execution. My experience in the student accommodation sector, particularly with our on-campus projects, has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of the needs of various stakeholders throughout the design and construction process. This knowledge instils confidence in handling design, economic, and statutory matters while fostering trust among all parties involved.

I am also passionate about creating accessible environments and actively advise the WIA team on accessibility considerations across sites and within buildings. Having completed Accessibility Auditing training at the Centre for Accessible Environments, I advise and train others within the practice and contribute to designs at an early stage.

My approach to technical design is focused and detail-oriented. Early in my career, I worked for a specialist cladding and glazing contractor, which deepened my enthusiasm for addressing complex details and junctions. More recently, in 2021, I became an Accredited Passivhaus Designer while leading the Exeter West Park project, poised to be one of the largest student residential Passivhaus developments in Europe upon completion. My understanding of the mechanics of the building envelope, combined with my design passion, allows me to create practical and aesthetically pleasing solutions.

And in the rest of life:

I love all sports, especially football. I am Chairman of the football club I grew up playing for. In this role, I oversee over 25 teams, from our Under 6’s through to our Vets. After successfully managing my son’s Junior team for ten years, I now coach the First Team. I even play for our Vets occasionally when my legs work. Although as the rest of the office will testify, My brain is far quicker than my feet these days and I do a lot more shouting (instructing) on the pitch than running. Most weekends you’ll either find me at the side of (occasionally on) a football pitch or hiking up a hill with my wife and two Labradors.