As a young man, I enjoyed walks in the countryside and always dreamed of becoming an architect. However, my secondary school teachers advised against pursuing architecture as a career, so I followed their guidance.

I began my career in construction at Liverpool Polytechnic, studying Quantity Surveying. Staff and students alike suggested that I would be better suited to architecture than Quantity Surveying, so I took their advice.

After a year of traveling the length and breadth of New Zealand, I joined Kingston Polytechnic, where I obtained my BA, Diploma, and RIBA Part III qualifications.

Although my CV may appear lengthy, I’ve worked for a limited number of companies, including North British Housing Association developments. Many items listed on my CV are concurrent events rather than chronological. I have re-joined former employers in new roles and locations at different times.

In 2006, seeking a new challenge as I concluded a three-year QA mission at DLG Architects, I took the opportunity to set up OWLarchitecture with a former colleague.

I possess extensive experience in various types of buildings and procurement methods. My roles within architectural practice have ranged from freelance student to managing director of a 70-strong firm. I am well-equipped to handle any challenge you throw at me.

I hold an MSc in IT in Property and Construction from Salford University. Being proficient in IT and CAD, I have handled both Microstation and AutoCAD projects, and now use Revit with BIM potential.

In 2003, I worked at Watson & Batty Architects in Guiseley near Leeds on healthcare and schools projects. In 2004, I moved to DLG Architects with offices in Leeds and London. In 2007, I established OWLarchitecture, later rebranded as OWLarchitecture.com. And here we are…

My business plan is simple: to earn a living while producing “Quietly Functional and Competent Buildings” without the intention of growing the business for a future sale. Occasionally, I offer consultancy to other businesses in the industry, complementing my main focus on projects ranging from £5,000 to £5 million. These projects are usually for end-user clients such as homeowners, community groups, church schools, dentists, and GPs. Refurbishments often focus on energy efficiency, space, light, ventilation, and insulation.

My wife, Suzanne White, an architect and trained teacher, offers valuable insights into my work, especially with schools. Suzanne also provides a Garden Design service directly to homeowners through from Leeds, West Yorkshire, while I continue with Architectural Design services.

Many thanks for your interest.

 

Grahame White

Architectural Design Service from Leeds West Yorkshire.