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Our People - Space & Place

Our People

We are a diverse team of architects, designers, and specialists from around the globe, passionate about the environmental, social, and economic importance of creating inspiring spaces and places that encourage communities to be more active and engaged.

Keith Ashton

I’m proud to lead the exceptional S&P team, where I bring my creativity and thought leadership to every challenge. My career has taken me from working with the Royal Household to significant roles in the sports and leisure sector, including serving on the board of Swim England and chairing BISL’s sport sector. Now, as a Non-Executive Director of British Swimming, I’m deeply committed to the success of GB’s Olympic and Paralympic athletes, and I’m passionate about driving excellence in sports and leisure at every level.

Justin O’Brien

With over 35 years of experience at the director level, I am an Architect specialising in the sports, leisure, spa, and community/mixed-use sectors. I’ve lived, studied, and worked in the Manchester area for most of my life, I am passionate about the environment and have a strong commitment to Green Architecture, creating buildings that not only perform exceptionally well for clients but also contribute positively to our planet. Outside of work, I’m mad about cars and can spend endless hours talking about everything from classic beauties to hot hatches, as well as visiting car shows and races.

Tania Rocha

Tania is the Insights Director and Lead Architect for some of our largest and most successful public sector community projects. She leads our Sport England’s Active Design team and provides thought leadership in accessibility and inclusivity.

Christine Hartigan

Christine is Health & Wellbeing Lead at S&P, specialising in diverse health-related community infrastructure, ranging from repurposing inner-city spaces to designing urban sports arenas. She is committed to improving mental health and wellbeing by promoting physical activity and enhancing customer sports experiences.

Natalie McGuire

As a Director on the board of Swim England Qualifications, and a qualified swimming teacher, tutor, and lifeguard, I have a deep-rooted love for the sport and leisure sector. When I’m not talking to others about the value of physical activity and the benefits of purpose-built spaces that facilitate healthier communities, you can find me in the gym working on my ‘mum-bod’ or in the pool, getting in the lengths as I prepare for my next open water swimming event.

Nic Bryant

Nic is one of S&P’s leading Sports and Leisure architects. As Design Director, he has led some of our largest and most successful public sector community hub projects, including St Sidwell’s Point Leisure Centre, the UK’s first Passivhaus-standard, ultra-low carbon leisure centre.

Andre Marques

I joined S&P in 2003 while completing my Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Part 3 degrees. My passion is designing spaces that positively impact people’s lives and enhance communities. I’m grateful to influence lifestyles and promote wellbeing through our work, which welcomes 100 million visitors annually. Beyond architecture, I have a long history with football in Kent County, having played, managed, and part-owned teams, and participated in charity football for 15 years. Currently, I am involved with an organisation creating events, facilities, and spaces for the community in Eltham.

Laura Adams

I’m passionate about the construction phase of projects, combining my deep knowledge of sports facilities with a practical and aesthetic approach to design and problem-solving. I recently delivered St Sidwell’s Point in Exeter, the largest Passivhaus project ever undertaken in the UK, which was incredibly exciting. One of my all-time favourite projects was the Corby Leisure Centre, where I worked on my first 50m pool—challenging but so rewarding! I adore long walks on Dartmoor or the coast with my dog, but I’m also a bit nerdy, always admiring buildings and finding the engineering behind structures fascinating.

Gurdev Singh

I’m passionate about staying fit, hitting the gym 6-7 days a week and enjoying boot camp classes as part of my routine. In my free time, I love spending time with friends and family, cycling on early Sunday mornings. I have a strong affinity for Excel, finding joy in learning new formulas and automating calculations. My skills in accounting and problem-solving complement my approach to challenges, blending precision with creativity. With a contagious smile and a positive outlook, I believe a healthy body and mind lead to a fulfilling life.

Paul Clayton

I’m a Senior Architectural Technician with over 35 years of experience, specialising in public and community infrastructure projects. I’ve successfully coordinated and delivered more than 15 large-scale projects, building a wealth of technical expertise along the way. I’m passionate about self-build and sustainable construction, and I proudly serve as Chairman of the Dry Stone Walling Association, a charity dedicated to preserving this traditional craft. When I’m not immersed in work, you’ll find me in the kitchen, where I enjoy making homemade preserves and, as we say in Yorkshire, ‘proper cakes.’

Kunal Tailor

I see the world as a dynamic cycle, moving from Control to Innovation, then Rebellion, and back to a new Control. As an all-rounder, I’m naturally curious about how things work, from systems and technological advancements to societal changes. What truly brings me joy is making a positive impact on those around me, whether through empathy, having fun, or offering support where I can. My goal is to contribute meaningfully and enrich the experiences of everyone I work with.

Mafalda Brennan

I am an Architect with a smile. I have an unwavering commitment to create positive change through Architecture and beyond. I began my career in Portugal, then moved to the UK and am now living in Ireland. In all these different latitudes and surrounded by diversity of languages, I have worked in a variety of projects thriving to foster relationships with all involved for the success and worthwhile legacy of the build environment. After all, a smile is the universal language of success, and I am fluent in it.

Siobhan Trower

In the busy finance team at S&P, I help keep everything running smoothly. Besides my knack for organisation, I’m really passionate about singing and dancing, which I use to bring joy and energy to every performance. I love living in the moment, whether that means going out with friends or discovering new places. Traveling is a favorite hobby of mine—it lets me dive into new experiences and cultures. My approach to life is all about enjoying the present and making the most of every opportunity.

David Griffiths

SOMETHING

Jorge Vieira

As the company lead on technology developments, I’m always looking for ways to improve the team performance. I love both learning and teaching, always eager to share knowledge and grow alongside the team. I have a passion for sports, the outdoors, and the sea, which keeps me energized and inspired. Outside of work, I’m a martial arts expert, maintaining a balanced state of mind both on and off the mat. This discipline helps me stay focused and calm in all aspects of life.

Daniel Taylor

I pride myself on being a strong team player, contributing to the early stages of the RIBA plan of work, including client engagement, feasibility studies, and concept design. I focus on driving efficiencies through stakeholder engagement and advancing sustainability in sport and leisure, particularly with Passivhaus principles. Problem-solving through design is a core aspect of my role.
Outside work, I stay active by rambling, walking, and cycling in the Yorkshire Dales. I’m passionate about spa and wellness design and enjoy turning workshop ideas into reality.

Alison Thomas

As the ESG lead and a proud member of Social Value UK, I’m deeply committed to making a positive impact on people, places, and purpose. With a blend of creativity, ethics, and a dash of fun, I’m always seeking ways to contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable world. Beyond work, you’ll often find me with my hands in the soil. Horticulture isn’t just a hobby for me—it’s a mission. I’m dedicated to increasing biodiversity wherever I can, with the goal of leaving every place a little better than I found it.

Ifeoma Ekine

As a Senior Project Architect, I have a lot of experience across different sectors, and I’m especially passionate about community regeneration. I’ve led many community projects for public sector initiatives, including the successful move of the Hillingdon Outdoor Activity Centre. This project, which provides land and water-based activities for the local community, school groups, and disability groups, was all about encouraging active lifestyles and boosting biodiversity while taking care of the natural environment.

Alex Cadoret

Working in sport and leisure gives me a sense of purpose, as it positively impacts people’s lives. I love exploring the blend of old and new architectural elements. Outside of work, I’m a vintage enthusiast and avid dancer, with a passion for Lindy Hop, jive, and Northern Soul. As a mature student, I graduated in Illustration at UAL, which deepened my interest in portraiture and model making. I live in Epping Forest with Erik, my spirited terrier who joins me on many adventures.

Nuno Campoto

As an architect with a taste for adventure and chilli! When I’m not designing buildings with a bit of spice, I find myself travelling, tasting new flavours and cooking dishes that add a special touch. That´s it, my goal is to create something so unforgettable, it’ll make your grandma’s secret recipe look like instant noodles. Coffee is my fuel and I never start a day without it. In my spare time, I play my guitar, mixing classic riffs with the sound of frying peppers and a sprinkle of cringe-worthy dad jokes. Architecture, music and food – it’s all about creating something unforgettable!

Stewart Gibson

I’m an architect with 18 years of experience specialising in sports, leisure, and community projects. I’m passionate about creating sustainable facilities that are both economically and environmentally friendly. As a certified Passivhaus Designer (CEPH), I’m thrilled to be leading the design for Ireland’s first Passivhaus leisure centre. Based in Scotland, I balance my architectural work with my love for climbing. While I wish I had more time to scale challenging peaks, the thrill of climbing perfectly complements my busy family life and professional work!

Abel Silva

I am a senior architect with over 20 years of experience in sport, leisure, hospitality, and residential projects. With a keen eye for aesthetics and extensive experience across Europe, I bring a unique perspective to our team and take pride in my proficiency in multiple languages. As a committed problem solver and BIM expert, I guide projects from feasibility studies to completion. Outside of architecture, I enjoy 3D printing and gardening, bringing creativity and precision to all aspects of my life.

Andrea Gunner

I’m a technical expert specialising in public, community, and leisure infrastructure sectors, with deep technical knowledge and extensive experience in coordinating large-scale projects. Based in Scotland, I love exploring the great outdoors through epic long-distance walks. I enjoy the thrill of relying on the kindness of strangers or, more often, the adventure of wild camping. These experiences keep me connected to nature and continually inspire my passion for sustainable and community-focused construction projects.

Rocio Garcia

As a senior architect with over a decade of experience, I specialise in translating complex client needs into innovative and sustainable design solutions. My expertise spans from residential and commercial to leisure, sports, cultural and wellbeing facilities, focusing on integrating functionality with aesthetic appeal and integrating design throughout the whole process of a project. I am passionate about community integration projects with sustainable solutions. I enjoy developing strong relationships within my team and the broader community to achieve outstanding project outcomes. After spending several years in the UK, I currently enjoy living in Spain and its sunny and vibrant atmosphere.

Erika Fonseca

As an architect, I embrace flexibility and creativity, taking on diverse design challenges. I have a passion for landscape design, blending beauty with function in every project. Outside of work, I’m an avid traveller, always seeking new experiences that inspire my designs. I also manage my husband’s career as a triathlete, cheering him on at every race. I believe in a life filled with adventure, creativity, and purpose, bringing that energy to everything I do.

Careers

At SPACE&PLACE is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and build an inclusive workplace where every employee feels valued. If you’re eager to thrive with our team, share why you’re a great fit!