A Mid Wales and Shropshire architectural practice and planning consultancy has expanded its Welshpool operation on its 20th anniversary.
Hughes Architects has expanded with the relocation to larger premises in the town, and has also moved into Aberystwyth’s landmark harbourside property, Y Lanfa.
It comes on the back of increased business throughout 2020 as more people and businesses invest in their homes and commercial premises during the coronavirus pandemic throughout the region and into Shropshire and Herefordshire.
The practice, which has a portfolio from home extensions to large-scale residential developments and manufacturing facilities, is currently recruiting for architectural and engineering roles as part of the investment.
“2020 has to be one of the most challenging years for everyone, both personally and professionally. As a result, many people have had to spend more time at home and realised the importance of space. This resulted in people wanting to invest in extensions and remodelling to cater for living and working from home,” said Doug Hughes, Managing Director and Principal Architect.
“Others have taken advantage in the increase of properties coming on to the market as a result of the reduction in Stamp Duty and Land Transaction Tax. They have purchased larger homes requiring work or property ripe for conversion, such as barns or older buildings.”
Mr Hughes added that property developers, housing associations and local authorities were also investing in private and residential properties throughout Wales and the borders.
Hughes Architects has been involved in several such large housing developments in Powys over the past 12 months, including Presteigne, Builth Wells, Llanidloes and Newtown.
Businesses are also investing in commercial premises. The architectural practice has been involved designing and securing planning permission for a wide range of projects, including a distribution hub, visitor attractions, and offices.
“The majority of our team have been working from home during the pandemic, but we are investing in the future with the new offices as we see continued growth in these areas of Wales,” added Mr Hughes.
The company has existing offices at Newtown, Welshpool and Aberystwyth, and a presence in Cardiff. It has bought and refurbished a new office in Berriew Street, Welshpool, and signed a lease for office space at Y Lanfa in Aberystwyth.
It moved into its Welshpool offices at the end of 2020, while it will relocate from its town centre office in Aberystwyth to Y Lanfa later this month.