Meanwhile staff numbers edged back up at the practice, which is ranked 21st<\/a> in the AJ\u2019s league table of the UK\u2019s largest architectural firms. The average number of employees fell by 31 from 230 in 2023 to 199 people in 2024. But according to the March 2025 figures, the practice added four staff members to its workforce, taking its headcount to 204.<\/p>\n Bosses at HTA Design said the improved profitability \u2013 profit margin increased from 4 to 8 per cent \u2013 was thanks to the \u2018managed reduction in overhead costs\u2019 as well as \u2018reduced energy usage, lower IT costs\u2019 and \u2018a very welcome reduction in insurance premiums\u2019.<\/p>\n According to a statement accompanying the accounts, almost all of HTA\u2019s income came from repeat business \u2013 making up an estimated 98 per cent of turnover.<\/p>\n Even so, its experience of volumetric modular construction has opened the door to work in Australia, where it is now \u2018leading the design of several projects with the potential to establish a new studio locally\u2019. It is understood this office could be up and running next year.<\/p>\n \u2018There\u2019s been a very welcome reduction in insurance premiums\u2019<\/p>\n Looking ahead, managing partner Simon Bayliss, who signed off on the accounts, said: \u2018Growth will be primarily focused on increasing turnover and profitability \u2013 through improved fees and greater productivity \u2013 rather than expanding the overall size of the practice.<\/p>\n \u2018This strategy aims to restore some of the value lost in pay and rewards for architects and designers in the built environment in the last 20 years.managing partner<\/p>\n Bayliss added: \u2018We continue to work hard to demonstrate the value we bring to projects \u2013 both to existing and new clients \u2013 to ensure we can command sufficient fees to achieve the very best outcomes, delivering design quality and technical robustness.\u2019<\/p>\n Examples of HTA Design\u2019s ongoing UK work include the revamp of the Alton estate in Roehampton, south-west London.<\/p>\n Approved by residents in October<\/a>, the AJ100 Practice of the Year<\/a>\u2019s proposals for the Modernist 1950s-built estate include up to 650 new homes, a replacement parade of shops, new community buildings and green spaces.<\/p>\n
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