Here’s a surprising twist in the world of architecture: Jestico + Whiles has seen its revenue soar by 23.5%, hitting £8.8 million, despite selling off its Czech operations. But here’s where it gets intriguing—this growth comes at a time when their overseas income has nearly halved, dropping from 18% to 9.6% of their total turnover. So, how did they pull this off? The London-based firm, celebrating nearly five decades in the industry, credits the sale of its Prague-based arm for the dip in international revenue. Yet, they’re quick to highlight their ongoing success in snagging diverse overseas projects, proving they’re far from slowing down.
And this is the part most people miss: Jestico + Whiles didn’t just boost revenue—they flipped a £742,000 pre-tax loss in 2024 into a £189,000 profit. Their portfolio spans everything from cutting-edge education and science projects to sleek office and housing designs, showcasing their versatility. While their average employee count dipped slightly from 71 to 68 during the financial year, the firm insists their current headcount is actually up by 15% since January 2025. A small team reduction in December, they explain, was simply part of project wrap-ups.
Looking ahead, the firm acknowledges the UK construction market’s unpredictability, noting clients’ growing hesitation and limited project commitments. But is this caution justified, or are firms like Jestico + Whiles proving there’s still room to thrive? Their recent wins, like the approval for the iconic Smithdon High School refurbishment in Norfolk, suggest they’re not just surviving—they’re innovating. Teaming up with heritage experts Purcell Architecture and contractor Bowmer + Kirkland, they’re blending preservation with modern upgrades to enhance accessibility and slash energy costs. Is this the future of architectural restoration, or a risky gamble? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Meanwhile, Jestico + Whiles isn’t the only AJ100 practice celebrating. EPR Architects Group also reported a turnover jump from £20.9 million to £22.2 million, with pre-tax profits leaping from £585,000 to £1.4 million. Their spokesperson hailed the 2024-2025 period as ‘positive,’ citing early achievement of their 2030 carbon goals, sector diversity, and growth in their Manchester, Poland, and interior design teams. But with staff numbers down from 243 to 232, is this growth sustainable, or a sign of streamlining? Let us know what you think—is this a smart strategy or a red flag? The architectural world is buzzing with change, and these firms are at the forefront. What’s your take on their bold moves?
