Elizabeth Smith  

Elizabeth is a highly regarded architect and heritage leader, Chairman at Purcell since 2021. She led the practice’s role as heritage architect on the transformation of the Grade I-listed National Portrait Gallery in collaboration with Jamie Fobert Architects, shortlisted for the RIBA Stirling Prize in 2024.

A strong public speaker with a career in the media alongside her practice work, Liz features as the conservation architect on Channel 4 TV series ‘Phil Spencer’s Stately Homes’. She is on the RIBA National Awards Group, and the City of Westminster Design Review Panel.

A keen advocate for progressive conservation, Liz believes designs can be more creative within the rich context of historic environments. Inspired by place, she works to craft identity by celebrating heritage and ensuring the long-term sustainable future and vibrancy of our historic places for the communities who enjoy them. Liz is an accredited conservation architect with both the AABC and RIBA at specialist conservation architect level.

Liz is highly regarded for her diligent work ethic and innovation, honing her skills through remarkable award-winning projects at Chatsworth, the V&A Museum, the British Museum, Royal Museums Greenwich, Windsor Castle, and Kensington Palace.

Inspiring colleagues to learn new skills and develop a love for historic buildings is important to Liz. Helping to usher in a new generation of conservation designers, Liz established and leads the annual Purcell Conservation School, the practice’s building conservation skills training programme.