The move puts the family-run firm’s future in the hands of its dedicated team, giving everyone an opportunity to be a huge part of the continued growth and success.

Employee ownership is becoming an ever-increasing succession model, particularly within architectural practices. After almost 40 years as a family-run firm, Crawford Architecture will now be 100% owned by its Employee Ownership Trust.

Founded in 1987 by John Crawford, Crawford Architecture has built a strong reputation not just locally but throughout the UK, delivering a wide range of projects for a diverse range of clients, including global companies such as GSK, and local organisations such as Montrose Port Authority.

The firm has played a vital role in transforming Montrose over the years through involvement in projects such as the regeneration of the old swimming pool into Montrose Playhouse - a thriving cinema and arts venue as well as ongoing involvement in Project Montrose (ProMo) which is set to revitalise the town’s high street.

Crawford Architecture’s design for the Montrose Community Trust’s new facility at Links Park only further demonstrates its community commitment. The innovative project will deliver a new community centre, a dementia care facility and an accessible stand for Montrose Football Club, ensuring inclusivity and improved facilities for both the club and local residents.

With John approaching almost 40 years in the business and son Kevin having played a pivotal role in driving the growth of the company over the past 20 years, it was time to look ahead and consider the best move to secure the long-term future of the company. John can now look ahead into retirement knowing that the legacy remains and that the long-term future of the company is in place.

Transitioning to an employee-owned model not only provides a seamless succession plan for the firm but has a proven track record of bringing stronger team engagement, greater innovation and increased stability.

The shift strengthens the architecture firm’s foundation by giving employees a direct stake in its long-term future. Employees can also benefit from profit shares and enhanced career progression opportunities, reinforcing the firm’s commitment to growth and professional development. The move empowers the team of ten to influence the firm’s strategic direction, all while maintaining the core values that have defined the practice since its inception.

Continuing to build on John’s legacy, director Kevin Crawford expressed how this decision will shape the firm’s future: “We have built a fantastic team here, all of whom show the right attitude, are ambitious and I’m delighted we can give them this opportunity. Many of the team have been with us a long time and we feel this is a reward for that dedication.

“Transitioning to an EOT ensures the practice remains independent and allows our wider team to play a more active role in shaping our future. It’s an exciting time for everyone, and we’re looking forward to continuing our journey with employee ownership at the core of what we do.”

For many team members, the transition is an exciting opportunity. Senior architectural technologist, Allanah Ogilvie, said: “This move means we all have a voice in helping shape the firm’s future. We’re no longer just employees, we’re shaping something we believe in together and all aligned with a shared vision.”

David Paton, who has been a big part of the team at Crawford Architecture for over 20 years, added: “The EOT structure gives us a renewed sense of responsibility for the business. We’re all invested in its future and that brings a new level of motivation, commitment and drive to ensure continued growth and shared success.”