The merger will see the creation of a 35-strong architecture studio in Leeds with a live portfolio of projects both regionally and nationally. The studio will be led by Directors Nick Baker and Andy Brown, formerly of Architecture 519, and current Corstorphine + Wright Leeds Director, Paul Thrussell.
Established by Nick Baker and Andy Brown in 2009, Architecture 519 has built a reputation for a solutions-driven approach to design. The studio works on projects throughout the UK and is particularly known within the security, defence and nuclear sectors for which the practice meets stringent security protocols. The team is currently involved in the redevelopment of the former Royal Arsenal Carriage Factory in Woolwich, south-east London and has recently received planning consent for a housing development in Wood Green. Closer to home, the studio is responsible for the design and technical delivery of the first large motorway service area (MSA) in Leeds for client Extra MSA Group, which is currently nearing completion.
With the addition of Architecture 519, Corstorphine + Wright will now employ in excess of 190 people nationwide, currently working on over 450 live projects across a diverse range of sectors including residential, industrial, bluelight, offices, education, retail and leisure.
Nick Baker said: “Having celebrated ten successful years in business with Architecture 519 in 2019, we are thrilled to be starting the new decade with this announcement and the opportunities the merger will provide for us to deliver an enhanced service to our clients. The enlarged Leeds team now includes specialist expertise in the Healthcare, Education and Industrial sectors along with Interior Design. Corstorphine + Wright is ranked in the AJ100 top 50 UK Architecture Practices and shares many of the core values promoted by Architecture 519, making the merger a perfect fit for both businesses.”
Paul Thrussell said: “The joining of forces between Corstorphine + Wright and Architecture 519 signifies a new architectural presence for the Leeds City Region. The Corstorphine + Wright Leeds team has recently secured high-profile projects in the region and we can now further grow our presence in the City with the enlarged team. As a result of the merger, the studio in Leeds has a balanced mix of architects and technologists, ensuring that we deliver with equal expertise both the conceptual stages through to the technical design construction of each project.”
This news is the latest in a series of major developments for Corstorphine + Wright who has seen impressive growth over the last few years. In September 2019 the practice announced a funding injection from specialist investors, Beechbrook Capital, closing a stand-out year for the studio with the appointments of Finance Director Ben Round, Design Director Matt Brook and a merger with Darlington based Studio Niven Architects, delivering greater presence in the North East.
