Forty years in business deserves a celebration, but at David Granger Architectural Design, it also means looking forward. From April this year, the practice welcomed a new management structure designed to carry the business into its next chapter.
Four decades of growth
April 1, 2025, marked an important milestone – four decades since David Granger first established his own practice. Starting out as a sole trader and building the business steadily over the years, the company now operates from beautifully refurbished offices in the Old Cottage Hospital in Ashby de la Zouch, offering a full spectrum of architectural and associated professional services.
David’s journey through the industry spans half a century. The business has relocated several times along the way – from Coalville to Derby, Donisthorpe, Packington and finally Ashby – growing and adapting with each move.
A new chapter, same commitment
From April 2025, David stepped down as Managing Director but is excited to be taking up a new role with the company as Executive Director, focusing his considerable expertise on land finding, development and property search – an area where the practice has excelled in recent years. With a strong network of contacts to support land purchase opportunities, David will continue helping clients maximise potential and returns. He’s not disappearing anywhere!
The company’s approach hasn’t changed. We still believe in providing comprehensive service to clients, working alongside experienced consultants in planning, structural engineering, biodiversity net gain, highways, drainage and interior design when projects require it.
Leadership transition
Mark Smalley, David’s long-standing and respected Development Director, has taken over as Managing Director. Mark has been with the company for 19 years and brings deep knowledge of both the business and our clients’ needs.
Stuart Falder, who has been with the practice for 27 years, has moved into a consultancy role, whilst Michael Perry – our Design Director for the past 22 years – has become Technical Director.
Looking ahead
The practice remains busy, and the long-term outlook is bright. There are several exciting projects in the pipeline, and we’ve been recruiting additional team members to support the changes and ensure the continued success of the business.
Perhaps for another 40 years or more? We’ll see. For now, we’re focused on delivering the same quality service our clients have come to expect, backed by a management team with nearly 70 years of combined experience at David Granger Architectural Design.
If you’d like to discuss a development opportunity or project, we would be pleased to hear from you on 01530 560939.
A word from Mark Smalley, Managing Director
“I’m proud to share that I’ve been promoted to Managing Director of David Granger Architectural Design Ltd after 20 years with the business. This is a milestone that means a great deal to me.
Over the years I’ve had the privilege of working with a brilliant team and learning from so many talented people. A heartfelt thank you to David himself for the trust and support along the way – it’s played a big part in my journey here.
I’m excited to take on this next chapter and continue building on everything we’ve achieved together as we move the company forward.”
A word from Michael Perry, Technical Director
“Having been part of the team at David Granger Architectural Design Ltd since 2003 and Design Director since 2015, I am delighted to have accepted the position as Technical Director, a role that my predecessor, Stuart Falder, has carried out for the last 25 years. I’m proud to be following in his footsteps.
As a Chartered member of both CIAT and CIOB, I have gradually been lending my expertise to the more technical side of projects. I’ve been a member of the Chartered Institute of Building for more than 20 years, an institution that promotes the very best in building excellence. Together with the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists, these two institutes provide us with regular training, CPD and updates that are vital in ensuring we remain at the forefront of technical design.
I’m pleased to have recently gained Chartered status of the CIOB in recognition of my years as an associate member and look forward to mentoring other members of our team to achieve this in due course.
The company’s transition marks an exciting time, and as part of that, I look forward to carrying out my new role. Continuing to provide our clients with the best possible advice and guidance will remain one of our key goals.”
