Two Milestones, One Celebration

This year marks a significant milestone in our history.

In 1976, Graham Masefield established a private architectural practice, laying the foundations for what has become a thriving business. Fifty years later, we are proud to celebrate the legacy, growth, and achievements of the practice.

Following Graham’s retirement in 2006, Mike Brabbs and Steve Marchant established Masefields Marchant & Brabbs Ltd, beginning a new chapter in the firm’s history. We further expanded in 2020 when Alan Smith Associates joined the practice, strengthening our expertise and broadening our reach.

So in 2026, we have more than one reason to celebrate! 50 years since the practice was first founded, 20 years of Masefields Marchant & Brabbs Ltd, and Mike’s retirement after two decades with the company.

Later this month, Mike will begin a new chapter, relocating closer to his family and embracing his role as a hands-on grandad. He also plans to spend more time in the garden (hopefully doing more than just maintenance!) while exploring new hobbies including woodturning, cabinet making, and hill walking.

As we mark these milestones, now feels like the perfect opportunity to reflect on our journey and thank those who have been a part of it. Over the years we have experienced many achievements and challenges, but throughout it all we have remained committed to creating inviting workplaces, unique homes and inclusive community facilities. We are extremely proud of what we have accomplished and grateful that we are still going strong.

In recent years, we have delivered a diverse range of projects, including social housing developments, sustainable homes in Wales, and unique facilities such as a boathouse and a virtual reality entertainment venue.  Along the way, we have had the privilege of working with community sports clubs, Football League clubs, and a Premiership rugby club.

Like any business, the journey has not always been straightforward. However, through both the highs and the lows, we have continued to embrace the challenges, celebrate the successes and enjoy the ride!

Reflecting on his time with the practice, Mike highlights Ambury Road in Huntingdon as a particularly well-regarded project, while Arrow View stands out as one of the firm’s most successful and highly regarded developments. He is also proud to have been involved with Willenhall, which is currently nearing completion and, he hopes, will prove to be another successful addition to the practice’s body of work.

We would like to thank our clients, developers, contractors, consultants, and colleagues, past and present, who have supported us over the years. Your trust, partnership, and expertise have been integral to our success, and we look forward to continuing these relationships for many years to come.

Here’s to the next chapter!

View some of our memorable projects from th last 20 years below…