How did you get into architecture?
I’ve always been interested in buildings and cities growing up but I think my big epiphany moment was in 2009 when I went to Wembley stadium for the first time for the challenge cup final. The imposing yet elegant design of the stadium, to get 90,000 people to experience sport and concerts, was impressive to me. Seeing it form a focal point and catalyst for regeneration made me want a career involved in the built environment. Architecture felt like the logical choice as it combined creativity and design with scientific, logic-based thinking. Through my time at university, my interests have shifted to appreciate older buildings, adaptive reuse and the small details.
What do you love most about your job?
I love that every day is so different. On one day I could be sketching massing designs for a residential masterplan, while the next day I could be visiting a construction site and responding to contractor queries. This difference also means there’s so much to learn and have knowledge of. You can’t be complacent in this career and must continue to learn and adapt to bring value which is why I enjoy it so much.
Is there a recent/current project you want to spotlight?
Fitzwilliam is a project I have worked on for over a year that has just recently received planning approval in Sheffield. This has been a key project for the Leeds office as it is one of our first large Yorkshire-based residential schemes. It has been an interesting scheme to be a part of, and we have developed a design which looks to respect the unique character of the Devonshire quarter while providing much needed homes in the city centre. I look forward to seeing the project progress and start on site soon.
What do you enjoy outside of work?
I am currently renovating my house, so a lot of my time (and money!) outside of work Is spent developing my DIY skills which has certainly been a learning experience. When I have free time, I enjoy spending time outside in nature going for hikes or runs or visiting national trust sites. In the evenings I like to wind down by watching sport in the form of rugby league or American football.
What’s your favourite memory of Buttress?
It’s difficult to define a favourite, but I do think seeing our completed overnight stays at The Reserve at Chester Zoo was a special moment that I won’t forget. The Reserve was one of the first projects I worked on when I joined buttress in 2023, and it was very enjoyable to design a building that was to sit within in a savannah-inspired setting. We visited the completed project on a beautiful summer's day last year and we could see the giraffes eating their lunch from the new luxury lodges. I’m looking forward to hearing how the zoo visitors are enjoying this unique experience.
What is a memorable achievement of the past year?
Last year was more of a ‘chill’ year for me after a very busy 2024. In 2024 I became a qualified architect and bought my first home. I spent much of 2025 taking more responsibility as a newly qualified architect and learning more about project delivery. A memorable achievement was producing the planning drawings and CGIs for Fitzwilliam and coordinating a full tender package for a residential scheme in Manchester.
