High profile conservation and retrofit architect appointed Visiting Professor at UWE Bristol

Media Relations Team, 27 February 2023

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Geoff Rich, Managing Partner at Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios in Bath has been appointed a Visiting Professor at the School of Architecture and Environment at the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol).

In his new position Geoff will be working with the University to help inspire the next generation of architects, sharing his expertise through masterclasses, lectures, and reviews of student work.

At Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Geoff takes a leading role in creative reuse work. He is passionate about the benefits of retaining and reusing historic and existing buildings, conserving and celebrating heritage, and weaving new with old to make sustainable, joyful buildings for contemporary life. He is interested in international heritage issues and issues, having worked on projects and initiatives in Africa China USA and the Middle East.

He lectures on sustainable design, conservation and reuse at a number of universities, and sits on the Historic England Historic Places Panel, the Design West Review Panel, and is a Design Council Expert.

He said: “Retrofit and the reuse of existing buildings will form the backbone of the industry’s work in the coming decades. I’ll be bringing my experience of sustainable heritage and creative reuse projects to UWE Bristol’s students. Some of the projects I’ll be delving into include the renovations of Bath Abbey and Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings and how we make these important historical structures relevant and accessible for the next generation. Plus, I’ll explore the low carbon retrofits like the Southbank Centre in London and Mountbatten House in Basingstoke, and heritage-based masterplans including a project for the University of Liverpool’s city centre campus.

“I look forward to getting involved with the UWE Bristol architecture courses and working with students and staff to help deliver relevant, exciting and contemporary degree programmes and future-ready graduates.”

Dr Matthew Jones, Dean and Head of School of Architecture and Environment, added: “We’re honoured Geoff is joining us as a Visiting Professor at UWE Bristol; his experience of leading high-profile and unique projects in conservation and regeneration will be invaluable to our students and staff. His appointment further strengthens our relationships with industry leaders as we continue to develop the School of Architecture and Environment, ensuring it remains a driving force for sustainable and inclusive futures in the city, nationally and beyond.”

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