Architecture firm marks new chapter with rebrand

A Leeds-headquartered architecture practice has rebranded after introducing a new co-owner as part of a long-term succession plan.

Edward Architects will now trade as Edward+Riley Architects, with director Chris Riley becoming a joint shareholder alongside founder Graham Edward.

The move formalises a leadership transition designed to provide continuity for clients, staff and collaborators while supporting the next phase of the firm’s growth.

Founded in 2005, the RIBA-chartered practice operates from Leeds and London and has built a national portfolio spanning residential, accessible design, strategic land and masterplanning projects.

It employs 15 people and expects turnover to exceed £1 million during its current financial year.

Chris joined the business as a graduate architect in 2008 before becoming a director in 2017, leading its residential sector work.

He said: “It’s a proud achievement personally and professionally. 

“Graham mentored me from the early stages of my career and I feel like I’ve grown alongside the company and played a significant role in its development. 

“We both share the same vision for the business and that partnership has been one of the key drivers behind its growth.

“I’m excited about helping to shape the future of the practice, mentoring the next generation of architects and continuing to provide the same client-focused service that has built our reputation.”

Graham added: “We have always believed in training, mentoring and promoting people from within the practice.

“Chris becoming co-owner is the logical next step in that philosophy. 

“He joined us as a student and has grown into a natural leader within the business; not only as a talented architect, but as someone who fully believes in our team culture, values and client relationships. 

“This transition is about continuity. 

“Clients know that the long-term relationships we’ve built over the last two decades remain in safe hands and equally our team can see there are genuine opportunities to progress and shape the future of the business.”

Over the past two decades, the practice has expanded its client base to include Gleeson, Lovell, Vistry, The Church Commissioners and Keyland, while delivering projects across housing, industrial, mixed-use and regeneration schemes.

Among its recent successes, the Holbeck Viaduct regeneration project was named Best Future Urban Design Project at the Pineapple Awards 2026.

Looking ahead, Edward+Riley Architects plans to increase its workforce by 25 per cent over the next five years, promote talent from within and expand into new regions, with a North East satellite office planned and Manchester under consideration for a future location.

The practice is also investing in digital technology, including artificial intelligence, as it looks to strengthen its core sectors while exploring opportunities in areas such as co-living and industrial development.

Chris added: “Sustainability, legislation and technology are reshaping the profession.

“Clients increasingly need architects who can guide them through complexity and deliver both creative and technically robust solutions. 

“We see that as a major opportunity. 

“We’ve always distinguished ourselves by offering expertise across all RIBA work stages – from feasibility and planning through to technical delivery – and by combining strong conceptual thinking with deep technical knowledge.”

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