C O N T E X T 1 7 2 : J U N E 2 0 2 2 55 New member profile Michelle Purnell I am a RIBA project architect with over 17 years of job-running experience in private practice, and a special interest and passion in heritage and conservation projects. My experience has been in residential (both private and developer-led) and smallto-medium scale commercial projects (up to £5 million), taking schemes from the initial brief development and feasibility to practical completion. A large amount of my work since 2009 has involved the understanding and adaptation, conversion or extension of historic or listed buildings, or working within a historical sensitive context. I have actively expanded my understanding and skills to ensure that I take a professional approach to building design and scheme implementation, following the ICOMOS principles. I completed my MA in building conservation in 2019, and have recently upskilled in the specialism of retrofit, becoming a qualified retrofit designer to prepare for the challenges following COP26, particularly in relation to pre1900 building stock. Joining the IHBC as a full member has been a natural progression. I have always taken pride in having worked for design-oriented practices with a passion for their projects and clients. I have experience in the practical aspects of practice management, as well as day-to-day project running. Architecture is about realising beauty in a structure or setting, regardless of scale, time limitations or budget. A building needs to recognise the needs of its users, and respect and enhance its context both in the present and for the future. Historical context, environmental efficiency and budget should all inform design. I am currently a senior associate at ECD Architects in London, specialising in sustainable new build and renovation projects. In my spare time, as well as running after my young family, I am a volunteer on the building team at Chiltern Open Air Museum, assisting in the repair and upkeep of the museum’s historic buildings. I have signed up for the IHBC summer school and am looking forward to meeting a few more members then. Michelle Purnell is a new full member of the IHBC. Henton Mission Room and Leagrave Cottages, Chiltern Open Air Museum (Photo: Mark Percy, Wiki Commons)
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