Meet the team…
When you work with Block Architects you are hiring the expertise, experience, and professionalism of our close-knit team. We wanted to let you know who we are and what we do…
Kenneth Martin
Managing Director
DipArch(Hons) B.Arch RIBA, RIAS, ARB
Education and Career History
I was educated at the University of Glasgow where I studied Architecture and Design at the Macintosh School of Architecture. I sat my Professional Architecture exam on the day of the disastrous twin tower collapse.
What do you like most about working at Block Architects?
Even though I am the founder/owner of Block Architects I have really enjoyed growing the team over the last 24 months. We are on a mission to become Lanarkshire’s biggest architectural practice, offering bespoke architectural services to private and many corporate clients, including local authorities. I thoroughly enjoy having the larger team and seeing them grow into the practice whilst they all develop their professional skills in the industry.
If you could be someone for a day, who would you be and why?
Sir Norman Foster. I would love to spend a day in his life with the ability to reflect on how he has grown such a worldwide architectural and design practice. He must have a few hidden gems that he can share with the business world of architecture.
David McCluskey
Associate – Head of Architecture
Education and Career History
I started my career in the electronics industry after leaving college. Having spent 10 years working and travelling in that industry, I decided on a change. I have now worked in the architectural and construction industry for 15 years and love every minute. I started in private practice and then moved to working with main contractors and developers, which allowed me to become more aware of project details, costs, and timescales. This knowledge has allowed me to advise clients and the team, that there could always be another solution to a problem that may arise.
What do you like most about working at Block Architects?
Working at Block Architects has allowed me to being a wealth of knowledge to the team and our clients, and to help guide both through projects from start to finish. As a small team, we discuss all our projects together to see if there are ways that we can help each other, and our clients get best value for their money.
If you could be someone for a day, who would you be and why?
If I could be anyone for a day, then I would pick Henri Matisse (artist). Matisse did not plan to become an artist as he initially trained to become a lawyer. Like myself, architecture and construction were not my first love, but over the years it has grown into it (after gold and my wife).
Ollie Shields
Associate – Head of Interior Design
Education and Career History
- HND interior Design at College of Building & Printing, BA Hons Interior Design at Glasgow School of Art
- 18 years in commercial interior design and architectural services, working on Hospitality, Office, Retail, Education and High end residential projects.
What do you like most about working at Block Architects?
Working closely with colleagues in the office, sharing ideas and problem-solving as a team. It’s a welcome change to working solo.
If you could be someone for a day, who would you be and why?
Diego Armando Maradona, my hero growing up. As well as having a wand of a left foot he certainly led an interesting life on and off the pitch.
John Burns
Senior Architect – Head of Sustainability
Education and Career History
What do you like most about working at Block Architects?
Block Architects has given me the opportunity to work within a tight-knit and inclusive team. Being able to work within a friendly and comfortable environment allows me to work to the of my best capabilities.
If you could be someone for a day, who would you be and why?
This is a very difficult question as there are so many people that I admire. I would probably have to say a professional sportsperson, rather than an architect or an artist.
Through all the various sports that I have followed and enjoyed over the years; it is obvious that the world’s best athletes take their dedication to another level. Being able to put your body on the line, day after day, and working through the pain to achieve their goals puts people like Andy Murray on a pedestal for me. Being able to say that you are one of the world’s best runners, cyclists, tennis players, golfers, or even stone skimmers is an unbelievable achievement that normal people like myself can only dream of.
Scott Graham
Digital Media Agent
Education and Career History
Over a span of 14 years, I worked in painting & decorating, and joinery in between my full-time job as a Master Baker. In 2020 I was made redundant and decided to further my education in the construction industry studying, HNC Construction Management then moving on to HNC Computer Aided Architectural Technology and Design.
What do you like most about working at Block Architects?
I used to hate Mondays, not at Block. I enjoy the challenges and always receive the support I need when faced with an issue.
If you could be someone for a day, who would you be and why?
If it was just for one day, I would like to be Richard Branson. Suffering from dyslexia he managed to build a company and become one of the wealthiest individuals on the planet. The charity work he does for others who suffer from dyslexia is inspiring.
Kimberley Hughes
Office Administrator
Education and Career History
Currently studying at Edinburgh Napier University Craiglockhart: BA (Hons) Business Management. I also have 3 years of administration and customer service experience.
What do you like most about working at Block Architects?
The positive atmosphere in the Block Architects office makes me feel comfortable to develop my business skills and express innovative ideas to the team. I always enjoy communicating with clients and responding with efficiency for progress.
If you could be someone for a day, who would you be and why?
I would be Meryl Steep (Donna) for a day as Mamma Mia is one of my favourite movies, she was described as ‘the best actress of her generation.’
Block Architects have a proven track record of designing inspiring spaces for residential and commercial projects throughout Scotland. We call upon our vast experience and excellent customer service to deliver projects that our clients love.