Watson Batty Architects has reported an impressive financial performance for the year 2023/2024, showing sustained growth across all sectors despite ongoing economic challenges. The Leeds and Loughborough-based firm exceeded its performance target by nearly ten per cent, achieving a turnover of £3,386,132.
Significant Sector Growth and Strategic Balance
Watson Batty’s growth is attributed to a balanced portfolio across various specialisms. The ‘learning’ sector saw particularly strong performance, surpassing £1 million, while the ‘living’ sector came close to the same mark.
The commercial and industrial sectors also exceeded expectations, with sport and leisure following closely behind. The Leeds headquarters contributed two-thirds of the turnover, while the Loughborough studio accounted for the remaining third, surpassing its target.
Managing Director’s Perspective
Peter White, Managing Director at Watson Batty, expressed his satisfaction with the company’s performance:
“We are extremely pleased to be able to report another excellent trading year. It is reassuring to achieve a good spread of work across key industry sectors as we continue to invest in a team with specialist credentials. This strategy remains fundamental to the longevity of our business success. The Future looks very positive with well over £2 million already secured at the start of our financial year 2024/2025. Indeed, our learning team has already surpassed targets on day one!”
White emphasised the critical role of the firm’s team in achieving these results, highlighting their specialist expertise, technical ability, and excellent client relations. He also pointed out the importance of staying ahead of industry changes, particularly in terms of sustainability and net-zero carbon commitments.
Recent Project Highlights
Watson Batty Architects has secured several notable project awards recently. These include new educational facilities in collaboration with Tilbury Douglas and ISG, along with further successes with Algeco through the Modern Methods of Construction framework. The later living and care sectors continue to expand with clients such as Exemplar and Torsion, while recent leisure sector projects in Goole and Caerphilly are part-funded by the Government’s levelling up fund.
Firm Background and Team
Established over 45 years ago, Watson Batty Architects offers architectural, interior design, and master planning solutions across all sectors. The firm employs a team of 35 and is known for major projects in public and private sectors, including schools, universities, sport and leisure facilities, distribution hubs, commercial buildings, residential and care developments, and transport hubs.
Esteemed Clientele
The firm’s clients include Algeco, AtkinsRealis, Countryside Partnerships, Esh Construction, Exemplar Healthcare, Royal Mail Group, Skipton Properties, Speller Metcalfe Malvern, Sewell Construction, Wharfedale Homes, Wm Morrison Supermarkets, and Yorkshire Housing. New clients include Morgan Sindall Construction, Torsion Care, Willmott Dixon Construction, Hobson & Porter Ltd, and Zuka Ltd.
Educational Involvement
Watson Batty Architects is also actively involved in the RIBA Student Mentoring Programme at the University of Sheffield, De Montfort University, Leicester, and Loughborough University.
With a robust financial performance, a diverse project portfolio, and a commitment to sustainability, Watson Batty Architects continues to solidify its position as a leading architectural practice in the UK.
