A founding Director of a multi-award-winning Ipswich architecture firm has looked back on more than 30 fantastic years as he steps down from his role.
Robert Keeble set up KLH Architects in 1988 together with friends Graham Lambert and Alan Howard – but is now saying goodbye to his day-to-day role as he moves to become a trustee.
What started as a three-man team has grown into one of the region’s most renowned firms, working on countless projects with the support of its many dedicated employees.
Looking back, Robert said he has loved every minute of his illustrious career.
“It was always the dream,” he said. “Architecture was something I latched onto in my school years – my family has a background in construction, so I sort of grew up around buildings.
“We had a careers day at school when I was 16 and I picked up a booklet on how to become an architect, and I still have it to this day. I later did my training before we formed KLH in the 80s.
“We never saw this level of growth coming. We never set out with a grand plan – we just wanted to go out there and practice architecture and enjoy our profession.
“Gradually more and more projects came our way and our team grew as we took on more complex work.”
KLH has worked on numerous high-profile projects under his leadership, from the impressive Digi-Tech Centre at Adastral Park to the Two Rivers medical facility in Ipswich.
“It’s very different from the work we started out with,” Robert added. “It was mostly domestic work like extensions and newbuilds back then. Now we’re working in numerous sectors, taking on complex and exciting projects.
“There are honestly too many standout projects to single out a favourite. If you had to push me, then I really enjoyed designing a winery – especially the research that came with it!
“But seriously, we have worked on so many important and influential projects throughout our region. It’s something to be proud of.”
Robert added: “I’ve gradually been winding down over the last four years and we’ve had a transition plan in place. I’ll be moving to a trustee role, so will still be around – I’ll be doing much more managerial work rather than practice.
“I’m stepping down from the board as the last full-time founding Director of the business and it feels like a good time to take that next step now. The business is in great hands and it is a really exciting time ahead.”
More information on KLH Architects can be found at www.klharchitects.co.uk.