At SPACE, we believe that the strength of our practice lies in the people who shape it. Over the summer, we’ve celebrated five colleagues who have each advanced into new roles within the practice.

Joe Shaw and Rebecca Eltringham step into new roles as Associate Architectural Technologists, while Leah Charlton and Liam Clerkin take on positions as Senior Architects. Rob Gibson has also been promoted to Associate Architect. Each promotion honours the contribution these individuals have made to our practice and the advanced expertise they bring to projects.

Joe Shaw has been part of SPACE for nearly 11 years, once balancing full-time work with his studies at Northumbria University. In that time, he has guided projects from feasibility through to construction for a range of leading industry clients. Joe is particularly focused on making design development and workflows more efficient, always looking for ways to enhance the quality of output across the practice. As part of the Technical Group, he also plays a key role in supporting and developing the wider team.

In response to his promotion to Associate Architectural Technologist, Joe said: 

“This promotion is a proud milestone in my journey with SPACE. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to deliver projects that push me to think smarter and more creatively, supported by a team that values innovation and efficiency. I’m excited to play my part in shaping what comes next for the practice.” 

Liam Clerkin joined SPACE Architects six years ago, after completing his Part II studies at Northumbria University. Supported by the practice throughout his Part III, he qualified as an Architect in October 2022. Liam has a particular interest in the adaptive reuse of existing and historic buildings. Since joining SPACE, he has contributed to projects such as the Farrell Centre and Hull Central Fire Station, describing this type of work as “the projects I’ve always wanted to be part of.” 

On being promoted to Senior Architect, Liam stated:

“I’m really happy to be promoted to Senior Architect as it marks a new stage in my career. I would like to thank SPACE, especially Chris Holmes, for the guidance and encouragement that have helped me reach this point. I’m looking forward to taking on greater responsibility and to the opportunities this next stage will bring.”

Leah Charlton joined SPACE Architects just over a year ago and has already contributed to a series of ambitious and rewarding projects. She has taken on the delivery of Woodlands Academy and Thorp Academy, strengthening her expertise and making a valuable impact along the way.

Leah who has been promoted to Senior Architect, adds:

“After an enriching and very productive first year, I’m proud to be promoted to Senior Architect. I’m eager to embrace the responsibilities of this new role and to continue working alongside such a talented and knowledgeable team.” 

Rob Gibson joined SPACE Architects in 2019 as a Part II Architectural Assistant, moving up the ranks as a Project and Senior Architect. He has been responsible for leading the design and delivery of large-scale public-sector projects, specialising in the Education Sector. In recent years, Robert has been project lead on schemes including Belle Vue, Woodham Academy and Woodlands Academy. Alongside many other successful bids, he was involved in the submission of Durham Academy and, most recently, Thornhill Academy, which has just achieved planning.