Meet The Expert: Craig Whittaker - Head of Architecture

1.?Describe your role at Wyvern?

As the Head of Architecture at Wyvern, I lead a team dedicated to transforming spaces with purpose and precision. We specialise in bespoke adaptations for disabled access, which can include hydrotherapy pools, sensory / therapy rooms and extensions to existing properties.

Managing bespoke adaptations for individuals, I ensure every project is both legally sound and meets the highest standards of accessibility and safety. Whether it’s property identification for clients or overseeing adaptations and new builds, my role is focused on ensuring that every detail supports our clients' needs, and their rights are respected.

2.?Can you tell us a little about your professional background?

I always had an interest in technical drawing at school. I had an aptitude for it. I initially enrolled on an engineering course but it was never my calling. I found myself on a drafting course at Stockport in 1984.

I stumbled into architecture initially and found myself being mentored. 7 years in a small practice and then went to Manchester at a large practice and worked in an office with over 40 drawing boards. On hospitals and other large infrastructure projects.

After gaining a variety of experiences, I set up my own architectural business which focused on small, vanilla domestic work such as extensions. I ran this company for 12 years, before being headhunted by Wyvern!

3.??What led you to pursuing that career?

I always had a passion for technical drawing and design, and felt an inclination to make it into a career.

4.?How long have you been doing it for?

41 years? - started my first job at Alan Higgins Associates in Macclesfield in 1983, before attending college in 1984 to gain formal qualifications.

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5.?What is your favourite part of the job?

I enjoy the old school aspect of the job of the initial design process, getting the pencils out and getting back to basics on a new design.

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6.?What is the most challenging aspect of your job??

I would say coordinating all the relevant professionals on any given job; solicitors, contractors, OT's. It's my job to make sure we're all on the same page and ticking along, which can be quite challenging at times.

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7.?What do you like to do outside of work?

When I’m not in work you will find me outdoors walking my springer spaniel, in the depths of the countryside at a fishing competition or at the stables with my daughter.

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8.?If you weren’t in your current role, what would you be doing?

If I wasn’t in architecture then I would have liked to have had an outdoor job, something in the fresh air.

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9.?Tell us an interesting fact / something we don’t know about you

I was a champion northern soul dancer in the early 80’s.

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10. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be & why?

Ice fishing in the arctic circle, or something else in a cool climate. Not a fan of hot weather.