Studio culture

We are proud to be an Employee Owned Trust (EOT) and a previous winner of Building Design's Employer of the Year award. Our goal is to build an inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking business that empowers our people and ensures the long-term success of our practice.

Together, we are shaping the future of heritage and conservation, as a team, as a community, and as owners.

Our Culture

We believe work should be inspiring, inclusive, and genuinely enjoyable. That’s why we’re building a culture where everyone can show up as themselves, feel valued, and thrive. Since becoming as Employee Owned Trust in 2021, we’ve been on an exciting journey to put people at the heart of everything we do — with a goal to be 100% employee owned by 2026.

It’s all about shared success, transparency, and empowering every voice in the room.

Our Collective Ambition roadshows and regular engagement surveys help us stay in tune with what matters most to our team. Whether it’s shaping career paths, refining development opportunities, or being open about salaries and finances, our collective voices drive the direction of our practice.

Learning and development

Building on our rich legacy, we embrace innovation and learn something new every day, bringing fresh perspectives to everything we do. From project-based experience to mentoring and structured programmes, we foster an environment where every individual can develop.

Our learning offer includes initiatives such as the Design Programme, Conservation School, Sustainability and Leadership Development, Heritage Building Series, and much more. Together, we build a future where continuous growth, collaboration, and shared knowledge are at the heart of our success.

'One of the best things about working for Purcell is the wonderful opportunities we all receive: the Conservation School; the Design School - including the recent programme in Rome; and the fabulous Purcell Day Out.

Alongside all of this - I work with wonderful people, who are keen to help each other out, and teach each other new things.'

– Employee testimonial

Purcell's Conservation School at Canterbury Cathedral

Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

We believe inclusion is a shared responsibility, not just a policy. As part of an industry that has historically lacked diversity, we are taking action to make architecture more equitable and accessible.

This includes building inclusive teams that reflect a broad range of voices, forging partnerships with initiatives such as PlanBee and Shape My City, and tracking our progress against clear JEDI goals. We’re actively addressing the gender pay gap and increasing access for underrepresented groups.

Our team in numbers

24

nationalities across the practice

50:50

gender balance globally

37.5%

female representation on our Board

Wellbeing and benefits

We recognise that a healthy work-life balance is vital, and your mental health matters as much as your physical health. That’s why we offer a supportive and flexible environment to support your wellbeing, both inside and outside of work. We’re committed to investing in policies and benefits that support at key life moments.

Our Asia Pacific team

Succession and leadership development

Strong leadership is central to our success. That’s why we invest in the future, nurturing architectural and operational talent through coaching, mentoring and opportunities to lead. Our approach to succession planning is open and inclusive, ensuring everyone has clarity around their career path and support to reach their goals.

'Purcell is a positive, inclusive working environment. We all work collaboratively, learning from each other and using everyone's strengths. Collectively, this has had a positive impact on our projects, the strength of the work we deliver, and office morale. It is a lovely place and I feel lucky to work for a great team and company on a range of incredible projects.'

– Employee testimonial

'I enjoy the trust and autonomy which I am granted, and I feel senior colleagues are generally invested in my professional growth and development. I enjoy working with other passionate people. I feel the company makes an effort to be transparent when it comes to decision making, and listens to feedback from staff.'

– Employee testimonial

'It's great to be part of the Employee Council: to help influence change, champion employee ownership, provide feedback to the business, and ensure it continues to move forward whilst also challenging the board on topics and issues as they arise.'

– Employee Council Chairman