INVERNESS-based HRI Architects has pledged to double revenue in the next five years after acquiring Thomas Munro & Co to create one of the largest architecture practices in the Highlands.
All staff will be retained by the new firm, which is to be called HRI Architects Incorporating Thomas Munro, bringing total staff numbers to 10, as HRI moves to the Thomas Munro & Co. premises.
Founded in 1898, Thomas Munro & Co. is one of the oldest practices in Scotland.
“We are delighted to be incorporating Inverness’s longest-established architectural practice to create a new, medium-sized firm – the largest locally based practice in the Highlands,” said Andrew Bruce, founder of HRI Architects.
Mr Bruce will become managing director in the new firm, and HRI co-director Mark Williams will become technical director. Thomas Munro principal Colin Munro will continue as a consultant to the new firm.
HRI originally opened as an office of Edinburgh practice Hurd Rolland Partnership, before Mr Bruce acquired the practice around 2005.
It works on a diverse range on projects, but Mr Bruce said renewables was an area coming more into focus.
“When you’re in the Highlands you take what comes in the door, but we’re seeing a lot more on the renewables side in Caithness. That will be strong for the next 10 years,” he said.
The practice has worked on onshore buildings for Atlantic Resources’ MeyGen tidal renewable, and a biomass power station in Fort William for Peel Energy.
Social Housing is another area that Mr Bruce said would help drive revenue in the combined practice.
The incorporation brings together specific expertise and experience in commercial and residential architecture and historic building and conservation work.
“Thomas Munro does a lot of historical and restoration work and their team comes over with conservation accreditation,” said Mr Bruce.
It has recently worked on Inverness Cathedral renovation and alteration works.
“I am pleased that the firm founded by my grandfather Thomas Munro will continue in a new form,” said Colin Munro. “I look forward to making an active contribution to the new practice,” he added.
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