Kendal-based Crosby Granger Architects has made three senior promotions in response to its ambitious growth plans and increasing demand for the firm’s heritage consultancy services.
The award-winning practice has long established expertise in projects involving the care, repair and adaptation of historic buildings, as well as new designs for sensitive sites.
From the scholarly restoration of churches and historic houses across the North of England to master planning for owners of large private estates, Cumbrian clients include the National Trust, Holker Hall, Leighton Hall, Levens Hall and Muncaster Castle. The practice also has clients, including independent schools, in County Durham, Cheshire, the Midlands and London.
Promoted to associate architect is Gordon Blunt who joined the practice in September 2020. Gordon is tasked with managing and improving the studio’s production of information, knowledge sharing and providing technical oversight on major projects.
Also promoted is Amy Redman, who has been with the firm since January 2022 after completing the SPAB Scholarship. Amy will lead on growing the office’s heritage conservation reputation while strengthening existing team members knowledge and skills in this field.
The third promotion is Andrew Bodenham who started at Crosby Granger Architects in January 2019. Andrew is leading the practice’s research and development in the use of traditional materials and highlighting its work in historic settings.
Co-founder Chris Granger said: “We have a solid foundation in the heritage sector from which to expand our work and for which we are seeing increasing demand. So we are very pleased about the three appointments.
“We also act as specialist consultants to other architects, surveyors and estate managers who need high-level building conservation advice or technical guidance. They are often wrestling alone with the same problems we are tackling with our bigger team of experts.
“We are delighted our practice includes several Scholars of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings, accredited architects and assessors in building conservation, Chartered CIAT Technologists, and industry recognised technical advisors.”
The promotions coincide with the firm being shortlisted for a wide range of projects in the North West regional round of the 2024 RICS Awards.
National recognition for Lake District property finder
Lake District property finder Gemma Dawe has gained national recognition with a prestigious listing in Spear’s, the magazine for ultra-high-net-worth people.
She is recommended in the newly released list of Spear’s best prime property buying agents for 2024.
Gemma said: “It is amazing to be recognised as one of the recommended buying agents in the UK for 2024 in Spear’s Magazine.
“As many know I have worked incredibly hard to build a brand and reputation here in the Lake District.”
The Spear’s 500 is a guide to the top experts and advisors in a range of fields including property, wealth management and luxury lifestyle. The magazine says it only recommends people and companies that exhibit excellence.
After a career in the property industry Gemma launched her business Lake District Relocation Ltd in 2020, quickly building a formidable reputation for sourcing unique, high end and luxury properties for clients in the hugely sought after Lake District and Yorkshire Dales.
She specialises in finding dream homes and works only for buyers, using her extensive network of local contacts and often sourcing properties off-market.
Much of her work focuses on luxury properties ranging from £1 million to £10 million.
The Spear’s Review says: “Gemma is a Lake District native who knows the area and local agents intimately, and puts her experience to great effect as a buying agent at her company.”
Talented newcomer promoted to key role
The potential shown by a construction industry newcomer has been rewarded with a promotion to the key role of project manager.
Josie Scrimgour has been appointed to the position at Genesis Homes after showing great promise since she joined the company less than two years ago.
The 21-year-old started as a trainee land and technical administrator in May 2022, and she has shown great aptitude and enthusiasm which has prompted Genesis’ management team to give her greater responsibility for daily operations.
As project manager, Josie will be more involved in land acquisition, progressing planning applications and managing all aspects of upcoming developments to the point of handover to construction and commercial teams.
She said: “When I joined Genesis Homes I had no background in housebuilding – in fact I was working in a pub while looking for local opportunities – so I count myself as a bit of a newcomer.
“But I have had so much support from my line manager John Blue and managing director Nicky Gordon, who have given me access to all aspects of the company which has been pivotal in helping me develop my knowledge of the wider industry.
“I’m really excited about continuing to learn new skills in the role, and I’ve already been trusted to lead on two planning applications, both of which were approved, and I am preparing five more. It’s fair to say that my workload has increased.
“Genesis Homes promotes an environment of career progression and I can’t wait to see how far I can go in the industry with the full support of Nicky, John and my colleagues.”
Genesis Homes’ land and sales director Mr Blue, said: “Since joining the company, Josie has impressed the team with her hard work and dedication to creating opportunities across the business, and she is a popular member of staff among her peers.
“She has become an important member of our team as she strives to learn new things and develop her understanding of the industry, and we are excited to see how she continues to flourish with the extra responsibilities that come with the project manager role.”
New trustees for Cumbria Community Foundation
Cumbria Community Foundation has welcomed three new members to its board of trustees.
Patrick Boggon, Georgina Smith and Rachael Stephenson were officially appointed at the foundation’s March board meeting.
Patrick is the founder and director of Tarnside Consulting. He has spent his career helping charities and not-for-profits maximise their fundraising potential.
This has included setting up a brain injury rehabilitation centre at the Calvert Trust; transforming Auckland Castle from an under-used bishop’s palace to a top visitor attraction, leading to regeneration in the area; doubling the income at Newcastle Hospitals charities; and supporting domestic abuse charities with training and coaching.
Patrick said: “It is a privilege to join the board of Cumbria Community Foundation and I look forward to contributing to its future. I believe the foundation is worth investing in because it has an insight into, and an understanding of, the county that ensures the grants it makes are truly effective.
“It therefore adds value to both the philanthropists that want to give in Cumbria and the grassroots charitable organisation making a day-to-day difference to people’s lives.”
Georgina is a senior associate solicitor at Napthens, based in the wills and estate Planning department at the Kendal office. She is a full member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners and a dementia champion. She works closely with the rural department, and has a real passion for assisting rural and farming families.
Georgina is a proud Cumbrian, attending school in Cartmel and later, Barrow Sixth Form.
Georgina said: “I have supported local charities both professionally and personally and am honoured to accept the role of trustee with the foundation so I can assist it in whatever is required, utilising my experience, knowledge and links within the local community.”
Rachael is a partner in the private client team at Cumbria-based law firm, Muckle LLP. Having practiced in Cumbria since 2007, her specialisms include dealing with the succession planning needs associated with complex family arrangements. Her particular areas of expertise include advising on charitable and private trusts and personal planning for business owners.
As a trustee of several Cumbrian charities, including Eden Valley Hospice & Jigsaw, Rachael promotes philanthropy in all its forms. She is experienced in helping people to realise their goals; giving as much as they can, in a tax-efficient way, whilst making the greatest impact to those in need.
Born and bred in the Eden Valley, Rachael was educated at Casterton School, Kirkby Lonsdale. She now lives near Carlisle with her partner and two young daughters.
Rachael said: “I’m delighted to have been chosen as a trustee for Cumbria Community Foundation. Acting as a trustee of several local charities over the years, I’ve had the privilege of seeing first-hand the outstanding impact of the work and contribution of the foundation. I look forward to working with an amazing team of people supporting charities in the county.”
Andy Beeforth, chief executive of Cumbria Community Foundation, said: “I’m so pleased to have Georgina, Rachael and Patrick joining the board. We were delighted with the range and quality of people applying to fill these volunteer roles and look forward to working with them to grow the philanthropic funds we hold on behalf of the people of Cumbria.”
The new trustees join a board of 16 current members, chaired by David Beeby, former CEO of the Innovia Group.
