Atelier MB promotes two to director
Heloise Wood steps up to design director and Laura Jessup to heritage director, joining co-founder and managing director, Andrew Burns, to head the eight-strong Manchester-based architecture practice.
Burns said: “We have spent the past 12 months shaping our plans for the future of the business and both Laura and Heloise will play key roles. They are both exceptionally talented and experienced and I look forward to building Atelier MB with them.”
After completing her year out at the practice in 2003, Wood qualified as an architect and has been with the company since 2005. She leads the team on major schemes which currently include the conversion of the listed St Margaret’s Chambers on the corner of Piccadilly Gardens from former commercial space to apartments, and works to Manchester’s Science & Industry Museum and the London Transport Museum.
Wood said: “I can’t believe it’s been over 20 years since I first started at Atelier MB. We have a fantastic team and client base which we hope to grow over the coming years.”
Jessup joined the company in 1995 on a work experience placement. After gaining qualifications in history of architecture and conservation, she worked in development including five years at Urban Splash, before joining Atelier MB as a heritage consultant in 2014.
She works with the architectural team on listed buildings and those in conservation areas. Recent projects include the refurbishment of 8-12 Newton Street in Manchester’s Northern Quarter as new workspace, due for completion later this year and repairs to Manchester’s iconic Midland Hotel.
Jessup said: “Pairing new design and heritage is a key part of what we do at Atelier MB and it’s very rewarding to work with our team and clients to bring buildings back to life.”
Atelier MB was established in 1980 and has worked on Manchester landmarks including Afflecks Palace, Beehive Mill, Sunlight House, Dale House, the Midland Hotel and the Tootal Buildings.
Burns said: “Throughout all our work is the fundamental belief that retention and reuse of buildings is a more sustainable approach. We believe new technologies, new materials and clever architecture can create greener projects and we will always encourage our clients to reduce their environmental impact through our design work.”
