BDN grows future talent with new hires

North East-based architectural, engineering, and project management firm Building Design Northern (BDN) has appointed two newly qualified architectural assistants, Megan Gray and Nirali Chavan, as it continues to invest in young talent across the North.

Megan, a Northumbria University graduate, joins as part of a degree apprenticeship to qualify as an architect. 

She is contributing to a range of live projects, including residential and commercial developments. 

Megan said: “Being offered an apprenticeship is brilliant as it allows me to learn so many new skills at the same time as gain real industry experience. 

“The team are really supportive too and explain the why’s and how’s around every project I support on. 

“This is extremely valuable as I can apply this to my studies, so I’m really enjoying being part of the team.”

Nirali, who holds a master’s in architecture from Oxford Brookes University and a bachelor’s degree from India, is working on technical design packs and planning applications for key BDN schemes.

She added: “Getting the opportunity to work side by side with the team on live projects is amazing, as I can really learn from people who have years of industry expertise at the highest level. 

“Projects are varied, creative and often bold, and can include everything from designing a completely new contemporary space or configuring an existing site to preserving historic buildings. 

“That makes it really interesting and no two days are the same, so I’m delighted to be part of the team.”

Both join BDN’s multi-disciplinary teams in the North East and North West, supporting high-profile projects across the UK. 

Their appointments reflect the firm’s commitment to developing future architectural talent through hands-on experience and professional mentorship.

Ryan Doyle, director of BDN, added: “As a company we have and will continue to purposely engage with universities and other organisations to support the next generation of architects coming through as well as promote the industry as a highly attractive career path. 

“Megan and Nirali are great examples of two young people who show huge talent and excellent career potential. 

“We’re delighted they’ve joined us.”

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