Professionalism
Based in Donaghadee, County Down GT Building Design is a Chartered Architectural Practice. As a fully qualified member of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists you are guaranteed a trusted, reliable and professional service.
Experience
With over 35 years experience in Architecture, Glenn established GT Building Design in 2004 to help homeowners improve their homes. Project experience includes extensions, attic conversions, alterations and new builds. For over 35 years Glenn has had the privilege of helping homeowners and architects obtain Planning Permission and Building Control Approvals. Glenn would welcome the opportunity to work with you on your project.
Before establishing GT Building Design, Glenn was employed as a Senior Architectural Technologist and responsible for prestigious commercial projects for clients such as Marks and Spencer, BBC, Ulster University, DOE, NI Housing Executive, HSC, Ulster Bank and First Trust Bank.
Commitment
Building an extension, attic conversion or a new home is a major decision for you that may seem daunting. There are a minefield of Planning policies, Building Regulations, cost implications and design issues even on the smallest of projects.
All of these will determine what you can do and how you go about doing it.
Glenn understands the value and significance of your investment and committed to provide the best approach by balancing quality designs within your budget. Here to help you, Glenn guarantees you a reliable, professional service and will work closely with you to obtain your goals.
How it all began, Glenn's story
After leaving school Glenn started an apprenticeship with a telecommunications company and was sent to an Architect’s practice to install a new telephone system. Having always had a passion for art and design Glenn was more interested in Architecture than installing a phone system.
It was May 1986 (Glenn was 17) and before leaving the office asked Mr. Alan Hamilton of Hamilton Architects if he could work for him. Glenn was delighted when Mr. Hamilton said yes and started helping around the office, firstly making tea, running errands and printing drawings.
After a short period it was the most exciting day for Glenn when he was presented with his first drawing board, pens and began to draw. This was the start of Glenn's career in Architecture and his passion for drawing and making improvements to homes continues today.
After a few years Glenn joined Ferguson and McIlveen (Architects) enrolled at college on a part time basis, one day and two evenings per week. In 1994 he qualified as an Architectural Technologist and received the Architects and Surveyors Institute Prize following nomination by the College.
In 2004 Glenn established GT Building Design, wanting to move away from commercial projects and focus on residential architecture. Helping homeowners to extend, improve or build new homes remains more rewarding to Glenn and he would be delighted to offer his expertise and experience to you.
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Glenn in the early 90's before computers and CAD beside his drawing board.
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Passion
Many times we see buildings which are unsightly and have not provided a good return for the money invested. Whether you are building a new house, extending, or altering your existing home there are three fundamental principles that GT Building Design will help you achieve.
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Function: How the space will be used. An extension or new dwelling must accommodate practical requirements for whatever purpose you need it to serve.
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Structure: How your building will stand up. Whether it includes steel beams or masonry walls, the structure must resist gravity and the loads placed upon it.
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Beauty: This refers to the visual and sensory appeal of your home. Beauty is the ultimate test of good architecture. Without beauty, your functional space will merely be utilitarian and not architecture. Good architecture may use similar materials as the existing building but tweak them in new ways. Other designs can introduce a completely different style.
Will your new design surprise, inspire, delight, or disturb? A tranquil courtyard filled with plants and fountains soothes our senses, while a dark, underground passageway may fill us with dread. Good architecture is about the science of structures, the craft of building, and the art of space-making. The rewards for us all as homeowners should be superb!