Duo of key appointments at fast-growth Huddersfield architecture practice

Huddersfield-based architectural practice, France+Associates, has grown its team with a duo of key appointments as it chases ambitious growth plans.

The award-winning practice, which specialises in designing bespoke homes for individuals who have suffered catastrophic injuries, has welcomed Richard Grota as chartered architectural Technologist, and Martin Bird as business manager.

Richard joins the firm following eight years working with UK-wide law firms to help locate suitable homes for injured clients and then create home design solutions to meet their needs.

Jonathan France, managing director at France+Associates, said: “Richard is a well-known and highly regarded chartered architectural technologist, and his appointment at F+A marks a key milestone in our next phase of growth.

“Richard’s skills and extensive industry expertise gives us strength in depth as a company, bolstering our commitment to excellent design solutions and exceptional service for clients who are often dealing with very sensitive matters and personal trauma. We are excited to see where working with Richard will take us.”

Joining as business manager, Martin brings extensive experience in management and director roles covering finance, procedure, and business structure, and will support the further development of F+A’s client onboarding, account management process, and business structure as the firm grows.

Jonathan added: “Martin’s role is an important move for F+A and will streamline specific areas of the business and allow it to continue moving in the right direction. Our focus has always been on providing our clients with a high level of service, and Martin’s appointment will allow the team to focus on what we do best.”

France+Associates was founded in 2016 by Jonathan France. The company employs 25 people, including chartered architects, chartered architectural technologists, surveyors, garden designers, and legal secretaries.