In our latest Staff Spotlight, we talk to new recruit Harry Thornley.
When did you start working at David Granger Architectural Design?
I started in June 2022 after completing my Architecture degree at De Montfort University.
Although I have only been working at the company for a few months, I have learnt so much about each project’s design and planning process and enjoy the different challenges that each day brings!
What does your role involve?
My role within the company involves conducting on-site surveys to measure existing buildings, after which I will come back to our office and draw up the existing details of the site we have measured. I am also responsible for producing design proposals for clients alongside the rest of the design team and preparing final drawings for planning applications.
I’ve also started to help run the company’s social media channels, keeping them up to date with current projects the company is working on.
How does your role fit into a client project’s journey through the company?
After an initial meeting with one of our company directors, I will be tasked to go out, alongside another team member, to the client’s property to measure the existing site and buildings. After this, we return to the office and produce what are known as ‘Existing Details’, which we work from when creating sketch ideas for each project.
I will then produce a set of design proposals and drawings, carefully considering what the client has asked for. These are then passed to one of our company directors to check before being posted to the client.
During my short time working at the company, I have already gained valuable knowledge of what’s involved at different stages of the design process. Moving forward, I would like to gain more knowledge and experience of the planning application process and liaising with the local planning authority.
What makes you proud of working at David Granger Architectural Design?
I am extremely proud to say I work for David Granger Architectural Design.
I have always admired the company’s work during my time at nearby Ashby School and University. It feels great knowing that I am now part of the team that produces the kinds of fantastic projects I have followed for many years.
The company is very well known for the work we produce and highly respected within the local area. The service quality is very high, and everyone works together as one big team, helping each other when challenges or questions arise.
What do you do in your downtime?
I live with my family in a small village close to Ashby and enjoy going for long walks in the countryside with my dog, a chocolate Labrador called Oscar. I’m also a keen foodie and love cooking at home for my family and trying new restaurants and places to eat!
I also dedicate a lot of my time to a local dance academy where I teach weekly classes and am working towards becoming a qualified teacher of examinations.
What is the best customer experience you’ve had?
I haven’t been working at the company long, but it’s a great feeling when you have been working on a project, and a client approves your design proposals and wants to go ahead with a planning application!
What do you enjoy most about working for David Granger Architectural Design?
It has to be coming to work every day and working alongside a great team of friendly people! But also, having the opportunity to work on such a wide range of fantastic design projects within the local area and then seeing them come to life is so rewarding and fulfilling!
