Purcell

Professional Description

Architects, Masterplanners, Heritage Consultants

Area of work

• Nationwide and Worldwide

Description

Purcell is an international practice of architects, masterplanners, and heritage consultants, trusted for our expertise in understanding, conserving, and reimagining the world’s most significant historic places. Founded in 1947, we pioneered the post-war conservation movement and continue to champion conservation and adaptive reuse as a pathway to a sustainable, low-carbon future.

With 14 studios - 10 across the UK and four in Asia Pacific - we lead with a conservation-first mindset, combining design excellence with technical rigour to deliver inclusive, planet-positive solutions. Our work spans across 9 key sectors: cultural, public, education, residential, hospitality, commercial, infrastructure and faith. With a spirit that is genuinely innovative and collaborative, we are focused on planet-positive design, championing adaptive reuse of our existing built environment over new construction. We pioneer a conservation-led approach that celebrates our past and responsibly considers the legacy we will leave for future generations. 

Our award-winning portfolio includes the National Gallery’s Sainsbury Wing with Selldorf Architects; Manchester Town Hall; and the Stirling Prize-nominated Elizabeth Tower and National Portrait Gallery with Jamie Fobert Architects.

We are proud to be a Certified B Corporation®, ranked No.1 for Heritage in the World Architecture 100, and recognised for creating places that celebrate heritage while making space for new stories to unfold.