A message from our CEO

Covid-19 has shaken the economic, social, and political infrastructures across the globe, and has brought forth great challenges within the built environment. But from these challenges, there is positive change, and collectively, society has the opportunity to develop new approaches, to carve a more resilient and sustainable world, placing exemplary and flexible design at the forefront.

The challenges faced by all businesses this year have not bypassed Purcell, but in this difficult time we have been able to renew our fundamental values. One of our key values is ‘team’ and we take great pride in the kindness and willingness everyone at Purcell have shown as this year has unfolded. It is this, alongside our collective energy, creativity, diverse skill sets and knowledge, that has enabled us to thrive in our work this year and deliver successful projects.

The safety of our staff is a key priority and continues to be so throughout the winter months. Our Board members meet weekly and have shown excellent communication, ensuring our colleagues are well informed, remain engaged and kept safe during this period of uncertainty. Monthly practice webinars have also been key to ensure staff wellbeing, motivation, and project success.

Our studios continue to adapt quickly to new working methods, demonstrating immense resilience alongside practice excellence. With a diverse portfolio across many sectors, adaptation to the changing industry continues to direct our ever-expanding experience, securing new work in all sectors ranging from residential to public marketplaces. Despite the budget cuts and the challenges of 2020, we see a continued confidence from our clients to invest in projects, allowing us to continue to win and secure new work for next year and beyond.

Sharing knowledge has been key, and we have undertaken internal and external learning webinars and CPDs. Where possible, we continue to invest in our training and development programmes, and I am delighted that we have had a number of colleagues complete their studies and qualify as Architects. Next year, we’re looking to introduce a range of new initiatives and arrangements for agile and flexible working, and we’re thrilled to begin many exciting development opportunities across all our regions in the UK and Asia Pacific.

In the early part of 2021, we are looking forward to transferring to an employee-owned business. This is a major milestone for the practice, and our newly formed Trust is made up of passionate members of our team across our UK and Asia Pacific studios. This has been a 3-year journey in the making, and we’re delighted to embrace this cultural change, and start this exciting new chapter in the history of Purcell.