My life at Lees Associates - Kathryn Archer

Four decades of practising the finest architecture and design in London is quite the milestone. It’s a celebration that Lees Associates is rejoicing in; taking this moment to take stock of what we have achieved throughout the years. With an excellent, loyal client list and a team of professional experts too, what is the secret to our ongoing success? What are some of my fondest memories of working at one of the capital’s top boutique architecture practices? LA partner, Kathryn Archer explains.

My beginnings 

I first joined Lees Associates after my Part 1 Architecture degree as work experience. Moving to London seemed the natural thing to do, to explore the exciting opportunities in one of the most buzzing cities of the world. Within a few weeks, I was jumping into the back of a black cab from our Covent Garden office, down The Mall to Saloman Brothers famous Victoria Plaza dealing room. Let’s just say it was a real ‘pinch me’ moment.

After heading back to Newcastle for my Part 2, I soon completed my degree. I was very fortunate to get jobs with Anthony Hudson working on multi-award winning Baggy House and recording studios for Goldcrest Films. I then worked with the theatre design architect Andrzej Blojnski, great for my love of the theatre. 

I returned to Lees Associates, moving GNI Ltd to its new Cannon Street office and supporting the firm’s growth over a period of several years. Our Covent Garden office was very convenient for work with The Savoy Hotel and we supported their constant remodelling for a number of years, notably the first extension to the hotel in over one hundred years and the refurbishment of the famous reception. The opening was very prestigious – it was anointed, as it were, by Princess Margaret! 

The project was my introduction to working on a very sensitive listed building and I revelled in the importance of the history of every little detail and enjoyed the ‘behind-the-scenes’ involvement with such an important institution.

Prestigious retail clients

Since then, I have had the opportunities to work with many amazing clients and on some great iconic buildings. In Harrods we have worked alongside some great designers and also on conservation projects such as the refurbishment of the famous façade and the beautiful Georgian Restaurant Art Deco laylight.