I have been a qualified architect for over 20 years, and have worked in many sectors including residential, healthcare, education, conservation (including listed buildings), transport, commercial, leisure and industrial, which has given me a great depth of varying experience. I’ve project managed developments varying from small domestic projects, to huge 600-plus units and major infrastructure projects. This has enabled me to work closely with different types of clients, stakeholders, planners, consultants, manufacturers, contractors, and fellow architects.
Having built up this wealth of experience, a few years ago I decided that it was time to try something different and set up my own company in Dorset, having relocated to be near extended family. One thing I’d missed was the regular opportunity to sit down with clients and help them to realise their architectural dreams.
Really important to me is to listen carefully, to be transparent and communicate well and regularly. I don’t pretend to know all the answers immediately, but I’ve gained enough experience over the years to know where to find the answers. I also make it my primary aim to work with all parties, especially contractors to build great working relationships. Architects are often lead co-ordinators. This means that whatever the size and complexity of the development, architects should have a holistic view and be able to bring it all together to ensure the success of the project.
Architectural solutions should be driven by the brief and the physical environment, which will vary from project to project, so I will work closely with you to make sure that the design works for you, and the environment around your project and to create something we can both be proud of, and that works for you.
I can work with you on the design and planning; or from there right through onboarding your contractor, and project managing the build. Sometimes I come on board when you have an initial concept design, but you want practical solutions to get it within budget and built.
So whatever stages you want me to be involved with, you can be sure that I am fully committed to giving you a quality, thorough, honest and friendly service.
I am based and work in Dorset and surrounding counties, but as you can see from my portfolio, I have also been invited recently to work on several projects across London and the South East and am happy to consider projects further afield.
Michael Porretta Bsc BArch RIBA
Director