Architects drawing up their own design for life
The implosion of the housing market could perhaps have signalled a death knell for many architecture firms. But, as Paul Millar from Hamilton Architects points out, there’s life beyond the troubled market – which includes some rather exciting projects. Business is steady which is encouraging in the current climate. We are fortunate to have both public and private sector clients and are currently working on a good range of projects in the education, health, community, sports stadia, residential and hotel sectors.
The practice has been successful in winning major projects such as the Ulster Museum, the Crescent Arts Centre restoration, and design support for the Giant’s Causeway Visitor’s Centre. We also have a number of ongoing projects for the Belfast HSC Trust in the Royal Victoria Hospital.
The industry we work in, like so many others, has been affected by the economic downturn and as a result has become more competitive. When we are competing for new work we always focus on quality as well as price. This leads to much better design and construction.