A CHARTERED Gourock architectural practice has announced its closure after the retirement of its principal, Richard Robb, following an impressive 40-year career.
A member of the Royal Institute of Architects and an Associate of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland, the highly regarded architect has decided the time is right to step away and explore other interests.
Qualifying after eight years of studying at the Macintosh School of Architecture in 1983, Richard went on initially to work for a period in Perth, Australia before gaining experience with several practices across central Scotland.
Richard later joined the Glasgow practice of Gray Aitken Partnership in 1988, opening an office in Ardrossan and leading its architectural projects for 12 years, covering numerous commercial and domestic clients while focusing on sheltered and care housing facilities.
In May 2000, Richard launched Richard Robb Architects, with the well-respected practice expanding into its waterfront studio on Albert Road, Gourock in 2005.
The business has often been a family affair, with Richard’s wife Cindy and his four children all involved over the past two decades.
Richard said: “It is a day that I have both been excited for and dreading in equal measure and I’m proud to have delivered over 1,000 projects over the past 23 years.
“I’m lucky to have enjoyed over 40 years within the industry and I’m so grateful to my family and clients for their support during that time.”
The Gourock-based firm provided support for numerous new-build developments, as well as refurbishment and conservation works, establishing successful and long-lasting client relationships.
While many of its projects were across Inverclyde and the west of Scotland, the practice also delivered support for clients across the UK.
“It has been my very great pleasure to work with so many clients over such a variety of sectors to help them realise their plans, ambitions and dreams,” Richard continued.
“In December we notified our customers of our intention to close and the support we have received since has been fantastic.
“My plans now are to fully enjoy pursuing a number of my personal passions, including travel, sailing, gardening, DIY and tinkering with motorbikes, cars and anything with an engine!”
Richard has now enlisted the support of fellow Gourock property firm, Bowman Rebecchi to find a new tenant for his waterfront studio.
The fully furnished 710-square-foot office is available to let on a long-term basis, with waterfront views, decking area, gas central heating, kitchen, private parking, and roller shutter security.
Bowman Rebecchi and Rebecchi Architectural director, Marco Rebecchi said: “We would like to congratulate Richard and his family on a superb career and wish him a long and enjoyable retirement.
“I have always enjoyed a fantastic collaborative relationship with Richard, and we have supported one another in the past few years with several projects.
“The architectural world is a small one, and I know many of my fellow professionals will join me in congratulating Richard on his career.
“His studio is a superb opportunity for the right tenant, and we are confident this will be another highly popular property within the thriving Gourock town centre.”
Fellow Gourock firm, Rebecchi Architectural is supporting several of Richard’s clients and are available to support others if requiring services.
