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Practice

Our practice was founded by Donovan Purcell in 1947 and since then the responsible custodianship of our shared heritage has always been at the heart of what we do.

Shortlisted for the RIBA Stirling Prize in 2024, and winner of Architect of the Year's Employer of the Year award in 2022, our practice continues to grow and flourish.

We cherish the past and protect what we have for future generations to enjoy. For over 75 years, thoughtful understanding of place has been our foundation. Through research and innovation we constantly seek out fresh perspectives to enhance our knowledge and evolve our expertise in preserving our shared heritage in a changing world.

Today, we are an award-winning international practice of architects, masterplanners and heritage consultants with over 340 people working together as one team in 14 studios across the globe, in the UK, Hong Kong and Australia.

We were ranked No 10 in the Architects' Journal AJ100 in 2024 and are the UK’s largest practice working in heritage. We were named No. 1 practice for Heritage in Building Design’s World Architecture 100 for the fourth consecutive year in 2025.

Our values

Purcell strives for conscious inclusion in our shared heritage, creating inspiring places for everyone where people can belong.

Studio culture

Purcell is a business that aims to balance purpose and profit. We are committed to influencing our built environment and making a positive impact on society through exemplary sustainable and socially responsible design and meaningful community engagement.

Social conscience

We are committed to being socially responsible and environmentally sustainable in every project and this ethos is underpinned by the values the practice was founded upon as a heritage and conservation specialist.

Planet

For over 75 years we have advocated for adaptive re-use and pragmatic conservation of existing buildings. Our expertise includes balancing sensitive conservation with energy-efficient improvements.

Practice awards

We aim to make places for people that leave a lasting positive impact, serving everyone in our communities and honouring our responsibilities that reach far beyond the boundary of a site or building.

Awards