“Inspiring places that celebrate the past and embrace the future”
Values
The historic environment belongs to us all. Revealing past stories to understand our heritage, and making sensitive adaptations and repairs to sustain its future is at the heart of what we do. From small terraced houses to whole neighbourhoods or listed buildings, from house histories to buildings archaeology, historic area assessments and conservation management plans, and from community talks to public/professional design and planning workshops, we care about getting it right for our clients and for society.
Mission
I am passionate about historic buildings. Working with individuals, communities, corporate organisations and local authorities, we aim to deepen understanding of the past, enhance the historic environment, and create sustainable places that can be enjoyed for years to come.
I aim to:
- Provide high quality information about historical and heritage aspects of the built environment.
- Protect and enhance the historic built environment.
- Work sustainably in our professional practice, and contribute to the three pillars of sustainability through the design and specification of work to historic buildings.
My experience
I’m Dr Joanne Harrison, an architect, consultant and researcher, with specialisms in historic building conservation and sustainable design. I have a diverse skill-set and a proven track record in planning and implementing both architectural and research projects. Working primarily in private practice, my portfolio of projects includes the residential, education, civic, commercial, retail and industrial sectors. My research focuses on historic buildings and post-occupancy evaluation, and the interdisciplinary methodologies I pioneer, position me well for projects that encompass both the physicality of the built environment, and the ‘lived experience’ of this from a social perspective.
Experienced in engaging with professionals and communities alike, I build productive and collaborative working relationships that are focused on finding creative solutions to complex problems.
Over the last 20 years I have been involved in various committee and voluntary professional roles for organisations including Leeds Society of Architects, Wakefield Civic Society, Wakefield Historical Society, Heritage Open Days and English Heritage.
Sharing my knowledge
I am committed to carrying out research and sharing our findings through publication, conferences, talks and tours. My publications are provided in a variety of formats, most of which are free to access. I also regularly give presentations, talks and tours.