New starters and promotions at Buttress

We are pleased to welcome three new architectural assistants and announce two key promotions.

Our residential team has been bolstered by the appointment of Paul Wright and Olivia Marshall.

Olivia brings with her experience of residential, commercial and historic renovation projects across the North West and is currently supporting the team on the creation of a family orientated housing development in Miles Platting.

Prior to Buttress, Paul worked on a diverse range of projects including large scale masterplans, sports and leisure facilities, and PRS schemes. He has joined the team working on a major estate renewal project in East Manchester.

Lauren Gabbitas has added to our Arts, Culture and Heritage team, working on the re-development of the Grade I listed Harris Museum, Art Gallery & Library in Preston. Her past experience includes a broad range of new build, conservation and refurbishment projects.

Senior Architect Alison Haigh has been promoted to Associate. Alison has a career spanning 20 years' experience in the residential sector, during which she has led multi-disciplinary teams on all stages in the design and development including refurbishment and new build for registered social landlords, private developers and contractor clients.

Since joining the practice at the start of last year, Alison has taken a senior role on Atelier, a major development of 167 apartments and 11 townhouses along Salford’s Chapel Street, and is also leading on two Passivhaus housing schemes in Manchester. In November, she spoke at the Tall Buildings Conference, sharing her extensive experience designing for high-rise living.

In the marketing team, Francesca Mainman has been promoted to the role of Communications Manager. In this role, she will have responsibility for setting the strategy and leading our internal and external communications, with a focus on increasing the practice’s digital presence.

Managing Director, Gavin Sorby, said: “Paul, Lauren and Olivia join us at an exciting time to work on a number of high-profile and exciting schemes across the region, and I am delighted we have been able to add their skills and experience to the team.

“The board would also like to congratulate Francesca and Alison on their promotions.

“At a time when maintaining our visibility and communicating with our stakeholders has become more important than ever, Francesca has risen to the challenge of increasing our digital presence, and her promotion is well deserved.

“In just over a year, Alison has become an instrumental part of our residential team, taking a lead role on several significant projects while winning the confidence of clients and contractors. Her promotion recognises her important contribution to the practice and we wish her all the best in her new role.”