Whilst research by The Royal Institute of British Architects points to a general pessimism in the north surrounding the speed of recovery from the recession, three local architects remain optimistic that the situation can only improve. So much so that they have set up their own company, FPA Architects, in Alderley Edge.
FPA Architects has been founded by Geoff Pickering, James Hindley and Craig Jones. Geoff and James first met whilst working at neighbouring architectural offices in Wilmslow then teamed up with Craig at SW Foulkes in Manchester.
Geoff said “When the market is at rock bottom the only way is up. We have a very clear vision of the kind of projects and people we’d like to work with and how we’d like the business to grow. The three of us want to stay on the front line and do what we do best, which is design. We want to establish a practice built on teamwork and a shared passion for the profession, that is respected for the quality of its work and its service, and that advances the discipline.”
As well as living locally, all three have previously worked on barn conversions, residential schemes and numerous redevelopments and extensions in Alderley Edge, Wilmslow and Hale. After investigating the options on where to set up the new practice, Alderley Edge became the standout location.
James told us “We were overwhelmed by the support from friends, local acquaintances and clients when we decided to set up in Alderley Edge. As well as the location being central to the area in which we operate, the village has an excellent ambiance. There is a strong sense of community in Alderley Edge; the three of us are thoroughly enjoying working here.”
Quality of service is high on the agenda for FPA with each project nurtured from conception through to completion, as is quality of design and rather than develop an easily identifiable ‘practice style’ of architecture, FPA prefer to treat each site independently and design according to its context.
“It is important to us that we maintain our hands on involvement with both our clients and the design work. Whilst every project has set parameters, for example the brief, budget and location, the three of us always look for the opportunity to stretch the limits and incorporate elements of progressive design into our work.” said Craig.
FPA are currently working on innovative one-off new builds in Hale and Bowden; a scheme of 23 new build properties in Halifax; a select residential scheme within a conservation area in Macclesfield and they have just been awarded the contract to develop an modernist scheme in Prestbury for one of the area’s leading award-winning luxury developers.
Further information on FPA Architects is available on their website.
Photo L to R- James Hindley, Geoff Pickering and Craig Jones.
