Best known for its work in the creative reuse of existing buildings and new-build residential developments, LBA said it has brought project architect Joanne on board due to her invaluable experience in delivering hotel and office schemes.

Joanne brings experience from Dundee firm Notio Studio and Edinburgh-based ISA, where she gained her chartership qualification.

Establishing a working relationship with Apex Hotels, Joanne collaborated on the design and delivery of its City of Glasgow £3 million refurbishment, as well as the £1.4m modernisation and spa addition at Apex’s City of London venue. Working as a key member of an international design team, Joanne was also involved in the £3m refurbishment of the 20-bedroom hotel, Schloss Roxburghe.

During her time at ISA, Joanne was immersed in office schemes, including the restoration and conversion of a derelict former pet shop to house the practice’s new studio. Most notably, she was a key team member in the delivery of award-winning modern office refurb, Greenside, in collaboration with real estate developer Chris Stewart Group.

Commenting on Joanne’s appointment, Lynsay Bell Manson, managing director of LBA, said: “As our practice has grown so has the scale of our projects. We’ve evolved from small private residential ventures to extensive mixed-use masterplans – now we’re ready to establish a firm position within the commercial sector.

“Joanne brings a wealth of design expertise and industry knowledge which will really help our practice make the connections we need.”

LBA has already completed on a number of commercial projects to date, most recently CoDE Pod Hostel: a boutique pod hotel within a former courthouse in Edinburgh’s Old Town.  The practice has also worked with Carlowrie Estate, converting its A-Listed castle into a nine-bedroom venue. Retail ventures include Strathberry luxury handbag retailers, Pad Lifestyle interior design studio and Kew Bridge-based delicatessen Hammonds.

Building on the practice’s growing portfolio and her own expertise, Joanne Allison will be dedicating her role to establishing and building on existing commercial relationships and leading in prospective commissions.