Architect draws up growth plans with Belfast move

An architectural practice says it has laid foundations for growth after completing an office expansion.

GT3 Architects has opened a Belfast studio.

Bosses say the move reflects the practice’s “continued growth and builds on its commitment to putting people, place and purpose at the heart of every design”.

The venture is led by senior architects Damien Graham and Darren Breslin, who say the business has brought a sport and leisure specialism to the Northern Irish architectural scene alongside workplace and interior design support.

Simon Dunstan, director at GT3, which already operates offices in Newcastle, Nottingham and London, said: “The establishment of the Belfast studio started with people.

“Darren and Damien’s architectural synchronisation and trust in each other, their individual expertise and shared vision gave us the ambition to confidently invest in a long-term future in the city.

“We’re not looking at this as your orthodox footprint expansion, rather it marks a deliberate step forward in our evolution.

“We’re seeing momentum build and are hopeful we’ll soon be able to announce a significant Belfast-based leisure project.”

Senior architect Damien said: “Sport and leisure is a sector that truly lives its purpose. 

“These buildings are designed to make people’s lives healthier; they serve in a way that no other typology truly does.

“The opportunity to help shape something different and meaningful was one I couldn’t pass up.”

Project architect Darren added: “We’re proud of the progress we’ve made.

“We’re combining national expertise with local insight, helping clients embrace new ideas – including artificial intelligence and digital tools – that unlock capacity and accelerate workflows.”

GT3’s recent projects include Eclipse Leisure Centre, in Staines-upon-Thames, which officials say will operate as the UK’s first 50/50 wet and dry leisure centre designed to Passivhaus standards.

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