Meet Neil, Daniel and Lukas

Meet Neil, Daniel and Lukas

At the close of 2022 we welcomed a new architect, and two architectural assistants to the practice, to support Brown & Brown across a vast selection of projects, contributing to the everyday creative, technical, and strategic delivery of work.

We caught up with each of them briefly, to see how they were settling in.

Neil

How did you end up here?

I was looking to work in a more rural practice in Aberdeenshire and I had been a fan of B&B since seeing them give a guest lecture at university, so I applied for a position in late 2022 and I was fortunate enough to have been successful.

What does your role with Brown & Brown involve?

Given that I’m relatively new to the practice my role involves balancing, being useful and productive in the stages of projects that I have experience in, and pestering my colleagues for advice and tuition as I develop.

What does a typical day look like?

The day typically begins with a to-do list of tasks to be completed in the day then plug in and get to work. As every project is a collaboration, there is likely an online meeting whether with a colleague, client or consultant at some point in the day. As we are working remotely, I'm lucky that I get to take the dog for a walk at lunch which is a good break from the screen.

Describe Brown & Brown in three words.

Thoughtful. Disciplined. Respectful

Daniel

Any architectural heroes?

I wouldn't say heroes as such, although I do follow a vast number of Architects work from around the world. I would say I have an admiration for particular projects, of which I probably have too many to list. However, Alvaro Siza's Casa de Té Boa Nova and Gunnar Asplund's renovation and extension of Gothenburg's Rådhus are particular favourites; both of which I have been lucky enough to visit and experience.

What does a typical day look like?

My day typically begins with a look at my diary to ascertain the tasks to be completed whilst getting to work at my desk. Constant communication and collaboration with colleagues, clients and consultants happens throughout the day. As we are currently not in the office, I try to get out for exercise at lunch time to allow myself to reset for the next tasks at hand.

Do you prefer a quiet or noisy workspace?

I prefer a noisy workplace and if the workplace becomes too quiet then I start talking to break the silence.

Favourite thing about your job?

I enjoy the day to day problem solving and the ability to translate our clients wishes through design.

Describe Brown & Brown in three words.

Ambitious, Collaborative and Transparent.

Lukas

How did you end up here?

After finishing the first 3 years of my architecture degree at the Mack in Glasgow, I was happy to leave the city and excited to start applying for placements in more rural areas of Scotland. Throughout my studies, I hoped to get a position in a small practice specialising in modern residential architecture for my Part 1 placement. Brown & Brown had been on the top of my list for quite some time and when I read that B&B was hiring Part 2 assistants, I sent off an application and tried my luck. After a couple of interviews and lunch in a country pub, I was given a starting date!

Favourite thing about your job?

Working in a creative environment! So far, no two days have been the same and I consider myself lucky to be part of this innovative practice. I feel encouraged to explore my own ideas and have the possibility to learn from the broad knowledge of my competent colleagues.

What do you like doing when you're not at work?

I am a big fan of the outdoors and enjoy exploring Scotland by foot, by bike or by boat. I think it is important to stay active and curious when not at work, so I try to go to new places and maintain old hobbies such as playing football and swimming as best as I can.

Describe Brown & Brown in three words.

Personal whilst Professional