At Lawray, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of architects, technologists and industry professionals. Through our partnerships with universities across Wales and England, we actively support emerging talent through mentoring, work experience, apprenticeships and graduate opportunities.
This year, we are proud to welcome an exceptional group of graduates and apprentices who have demonstrated outstanding potential, dedication and ambition as they begin the next stage of their careers with us.
Jasper Davenne
Cardiff Metropolitan University graduate Jasper Davenne joins our Cardiff studio as a Graduate Architectural Technologist. Jasper first connected with the practice through our ‘Day in the Life’ experience and portfolio review sessions, where he impressed the team with his enthusiasm, technical ability and approach to design. We are delighted to welcome him to the Cardiff team.
Jasper said, “I’ve always had a real interest in the technical side of buildings and understanding how they’re put together and what goes on behind the walls. I’m really looking forward to expanding my knowledge at Lawray, learning from the experienced team around me and contributing to a variety of exciting projects. I’m also really grateful for how welcoming everyone has been since I joined and I’m excited to continue developing as part of the team.”
Laura Walmsley
Laura joined our London studio in July after successfully completing the RIBA Mentoring Programme with our Cardiff studio under the guidance of Senior Associate Lyn Hopkins and Architect Chris Knox. A graduate of Cardiff University’s Welsh School of Architecture, Laura takes up the role of Part 1 Architectural Assistant and brings a strong foundation in design, collaboration and creative thinking.
Laura shared her thoughts, “Since joining Lawray, I’ve felt incredibly welcomed by everyone and have really enjoyed settling into the team. I’m looking forward to developing my technical knowledge, gaining firsthand experience of live projects and learning from the people around me throughout my time here. I’m excited to take on new challenges and continue developing both personally and professionally as part of the Lawray team.”
Darcy Crecan-Harris
Another talented Cardiff Metropolitan University graduate, Darcy joins our London studio after impressing during university mentoring and portfolio review sessions led by CEO Chris Evans and Architect Chris Knox. His strong portfolio, positive attitude and commitment to excellence made him a standout candidate, and we are excited to support his professional development as part of the Lawray team.
“Since starting my journey into Architectural Design and Technology, I’ve developed a real skill and love for the process of designing buildings. Now completing university, I was looking for a way to not only improve my skills and understanding, but to surround myself with an environment that would help me grow. As part of the Lawray team, I’m excited to develop my skills, gain knowledge from my colleagues and be involved in new projects, helping bring them to life. I’m very grateful for how welcoming the team has been in my first week and for introducing me to life at Lawray. I can’t wait to continue developing and learning as part of the team.”
Ben Padgham
Ben’s route into architecture has been anything but conventional. Joining Lawray with a degree in Automotive Design from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, he brought a unique combination of technical expertise, creativity and problem-solving skills to the practice.
Recognising his potential, we worked closely with Cardiff Metropolitan University to develop a bespoke Architectural Design and Technology apprenticeship pathway tailored to his experience and aspirations. Following a detailed assessment of his academic achievements and core competencies, a new role was created that enabled Ben to build upon his existing strengths while developing the specialist knowledge required for a career in architectural technology.
This innovative approach has been rewarded through Ben’s continued success within the practice, culminating in his graduation in July 2026 with a First-Class Honours degree. Investing in Future Talent Supporting emerging professionals is about more than recruitment; it is about creating meaningful opportunities for people to develop, thrive and build rewarding careers. Through apprenticeships, mentoring programmes and industry partnerships, we continue to invest in talent at every stage of the educational journey.
Millie Tomkewycz
In collaboration with the University of South Wales’ Network75 programme, Lawray is supporting Millie Tomkewycz through a part-time role alongside her BA (Hons) Business and Management studies. The programme combines academic learning with valuable workplace experience, enabling students to develop leadership, problem-solving and strategic thinking skills while gaining practical insight into the day-to-day operation of an architectural practice. Millie’s contribution has brought fresh perspectives to the business, while providing her with invaluable experience that will support her future career development.
