Dominic leads residential projects from our London office. He thrives in the design of complex, sensitive housing projects, including large mixed use apartments and smaller, more bespoke schemes.
A true architect, Dominic cherishes the art of drawing by hand and has previously had work displayed at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition and the RIBA.
Dominic, what is the role of an architect to you?
Well, the role has changed and there is even fear that it is diminishing. As architects, what we do is complicated and we’re not always appreciated for it; sometimes we have to work hard to be heard. It’s important to focus on re-establishing ourselves as vital members of the team.
And what are the key challenges affecting residential architecture?
The skills shortage. There are not enough hands to deliver the amount of housing required for the growing population. Offsite manufacturing has been procured to tackle this, but there are more changes to come. What people expect from buildings is changing rapidly, so it is our role to respond to this rate of change efficiently and effectively.
What is your favourite project you’ve worked on to date?
110 at the Quay, Portishead. It looked amazing and we got it right in terms of the design, scale and materials. As a team, we really worked to create something that fitted into the spectacular landscape, and the client was really pleased. The project won Mixed Use Residential Scheme of the Year and through that we won Architect of the Year.
If you weren’t an architect, what would you be?
I’d be a postman. It’s all about that freedom, being outside. I’m a bit of an early bird and I love the idea of having the rest of the day to yourself.
What is the best book you’ve read?
To Kill a Mocking Bird by Harper Lee. I read it in my English O level and fell in love with it. I saw the stage play and it was fantastic – it really moved me.
Industry Bodies:
- RIBA
- Theatre Royal Bath, Trustee
Awards:
- Annually shortlisted for the Housing Design Awards and the Sunday Times British Homes Awards
- Architect of the Year at the Sunday Times British Homes Awards, 2013
- Winner of the Best Mixed Use category at the Sunday Times British Awards, 2013
- Winner of the Best Standard House Type category at the Sunday Times British Homes Awards, 2014