Building relationships the foundation of architects’ longevity

In Marketing Derby’s latest edition of Innovate Magazine, we catch up with Matthew Montague, whose firm – Matthew Montague Architects – is celebrating 25 years in business.

For the feature, Innovate went to visit Matthew at the firm’s stunning base – known as the Cheese Factory.

In the interview, Matthew explains how he followed in the footsteps of his father Derek to become an architect – and eventually establish his own practice in 1998.

The firm’s first job involved Lonsdale House, which was the HQ of Lonsdale Travel (25 years later Matthew Montague Architects are involved in a revamp of the building which now belongs to the University of Derby).

It takes something special for a business to keep its doors open for a quarter of a century, especially in evolving markets in a competitive industry like construction.

According to Matthew, key to his firm’s longevity is the relationship it develops with its clients.

He told Innovate: “We believe strongly that working closely with the client and other end users achieves the best possible results both in terms of design and functionality but also timescale and cost.

“It is the desire to achieve this which makes the projects we have designed and delivered successful.”

Over the past quarter of a century, the firm has worked on a myriad of schemes, both large and small, for clients ranging from big names like Nestle and Derby County to private individuals.

But when pressed on his favourites he is particularly proud of the work his firm has done at Repton School.

Matthew also talks in glowing terms about buildings designed by others, such as QUAD and The Strand.

And he is delighted that regeneration of the city centre appears to be gaining momentum.

He told Innovate: “I’m optimistic and think things are about to move. The Becketwell and Wavensmere schemes are key.

“When they are finished, there are going to be a lot more people in town and, more to the point, there’s going  to be a lot more money and a lot  more activity – especially when the performance venue is complete.

“I also think the Market Hall scheme is going to be massive. That’s right in the centre of it all. People will go there and then move out to other areas. There is movement in various other quarters, and we are looking at sites for other people. It’s going to take some time, but the tide is starting to turn.”

To read the feature in full visit https://heyzine.com/flip-book/6824d67df2.html#page/28 .