Nina joined Orms in 2025, bringing experience from listed heritage schemes during her time at Nash Partnership and Hapticity Architects in Bath. Her interests lie in the reuse of existing buildings, people-centred design and sustainability. She has experience in conservation, retrofit and community engagement, and is particularly interested in projects that explore the cultural and civic role of architecture. She holds First-Class degrees from both the University of Bath and the University of Sheffield, and her MArch thesis, awarded the J. K. Page Prize in Environmental Science, explored how heritage and vernacular materials can support preventative models of care in post-industrial cities.
What does ultrapractical mean to you?
To me, ultrapractical architecture is about unlocking the potential of existing buildings through a grounded understanding the complex historical, cultural and environmental contexts of each site. It means designing with an awareness of how these buildings have adapted over time and how they can continue to meet future needs. My experience on listed heritage projects showed me that every building has a story that shapes how it can adapt sustainably. It’s about fulfilling a project’s full potential though sensitive design that creates meaningful, lasting and environmentally responsible places.