Thoughtfully Breathing Life into Historic Buildings

Liam Clerkin, who qualified as an Architect in 2022, has been part of SPACE since 2019. As a vital presence in Team 3, he specialises in the art of adaptive reuse, breathing new life into existing and often historic buildings through careful repair, restoration and thoughtful extension. Liam’s portfolio is rich with educational and community spaces, places crafted to uplift and serve, each shaped with an attentive eye to context and the lived experience of its users.

Several of Liam’s standout contributions to the practice emphasise his thoughtfulness and creativity as a restorative designer. For example, his work on the Farrell Centre in Newcastle, a Grade II listed building that required careful navigation and technical precision, demonstrated Liam’s ability to balance respectful conservation with contemporary design.

Likewise, other projects he has worked on include Hull Central Fire Station, a well-loved local landmark that had fallen into disrepair and was given new life through a design that celebrated its heritage while introducing modern elements, as well as the design and delivery of the Mortimer Community College Extension, Benton Park Primary School and St Mary’s Primary School. These achievements have been recognised through multiple prestigious awards, including the RIBA North East Award 2025 and the Lord Mayor’s Award (Conservation Category, 2024) for the Farrell Centre, and the Constructing Excellence Regional Award for Hull Central Fire Station.

Outside of work, Liam enjoys watching live music, attending a range of concerts and festivals, and even braving Glastonbury. Nominated for YAPF Designer of the Year 2025, Liam’s design skills and technical ability are an asset to his team and the wider SPACE Architects practice.