Katherine joined Orms in 2016, bringing international perspective from her architectural education in New Zealand and subsequent experience in London's residential sector, spanning high-density multi-unit to high-end developments. At Orms, she has developed external envelope packages for projects including Grosvenor Street, Britton Street and Grade II listed Portobello Dock, demonstrating technical expertise with diverse building types and heritage structures. Her project leadership credentials include Christopher Yard, where she guided the transformation of an unused car park into a mews-style office development through tender and contractor selection, continuing as lead on client monitoring throughout construction.
What does ultrapractical mean to you? Ultrapractical architecture means creating buildings that balance environmental responsibility with crafted detail and materiality. Currently leading the Pall Mall project—a commercial scheme combining partial retention with new build elements that has received planning approval and is progressing to Stage 3—I apply this philosophy through rigorous technical resolution and thoughtful design development. As an active member of the Orms sustainability team, I conduct research on material specification, embodied carbon and reuse opportunities, helping to embed environmental principles across our practice. This professional approach aligns with my personal interest in architecture that celebrates natural raw materials and craftsmanship, reflected in my own creative pursuits in sewing and knitting.