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About Glenn
Chartered Architectural Technologist with 40 years’ experience
I’m Glenn, a Chartered Architectural Technologist with over 40 years’ experience helping homeowners across Northern Ireland transform their homes through practical, thoughtful and well‑considered design. This page shares a little more about my background, my approach, and the values that guide every project I take on.
Practice Credentials
GT Building Design is led by Glenn Thompson, a Chartered Architectural Technologist (MCIAT) with
over 40 years’ experience in domestic extensions, conversions and practical, homeowner‑focused design.
Glenn began his career with Hamilton Architects in 1986, establishing GT Building Design in 2004 to offer a more personal, efficient and compliance‑driven service for homeowners across Northern Ireland. Every project is handled directly, ensuring clear communication, thoughtful detailing and a steady, practical approach from first sketch to completion.
Why Homeowners Choose GT Building Design
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40 years’ experience in residential design and construction
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Chartered Architectural Technologist with specialist technical expertise
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One‑to‑one service — Glenn manages your project personally
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Local knowledge of planning and building regulations in Northern Ireland
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Clear communication from first conversation to final approval
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Creative yet practical designs tailored to your lifestyle and budget
How It All Began
Glenn’s Story
My journey in architecture began in 1986, when I joined Hamilton Architects and stepped into the world of design and construction for the first time. Working within a large commercial practice gave me a strong foundation — I learned how buildings come together, how projects are coordinated, and how important clear, accurate technical information is to every successful build.
Over time, I realised that what I enjoyed most wasn’t the scale of the projects, but the people behind them. I found myself drawn to residential design — the conversations with homeowners, the problem‑solving, the chance to improve how someone lives in their home every day. There’s something uniquely rewarding about helping a family create more space, better light, or a layout that finally works for them.
In 2004, I founded GT Building Design to focus entirely on this type of work. I wanted a practice where clients received personal attention, where nothing was rushed, and where every project — no matter the size — was treated with care and technical precision.
As a Chartered Architectural Technologist, I’ve always believed that good design should be both creative and practical. It should look great, but it also needs to work in the real world: structurally, technically and within budget. That balance has shaped every project I’ve taken on.
Today, with over 40 years’ experience, I still approach each home with the same enthusiasm I had at the start. Every extension, alteration, loft conversion or garage conversion is an opportunity to solve problems, unlock potential and help someone enjoy their home in a new way.
GT Building Design has grown, but the heart of it remains the same:
One person, one point of contact, one clear commitment to doing things properly.
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Glenn in the early 90's before computers and CAD beside his drawing board.
Previous Commercial Clients
Before establishing GT Building Design, Glenn worked as a Senior Architectural Technologist, delivering high‑profile commercial projects for major clients including Marks & Spencer, the BBC, Ulster University, the Department of Education, the NI Housing Executive, the Health & Social Care Trust, Ulster Bank and First Trust Bank.
This experience provided Glenn with a strong technical foundation — managing complex projects, coordinating with multiple consultants, and producing detailed, accurate construction information. These skills now underpin the residential design service he offers today, ensuring every homeowner benefits from the same level of professionalism, precision and reliability.
