We’re delighted to share that our colleague Simon Woof has successfully passed his Part 3 Exams and become a Chartered Architect with a Certificate in Professional Practice & Management in Architecture. This significant milestone is a testament to Simon’s hard work, determination, and resilience – qualities we deeply admire.
Simon started his career as a carpenter working to restore listed buildings, an experience that taught him how to value heritage, material sensitivity and the importance of detail in design.
With an impressive 11 year history in the armed forces, Simon has undertaken a career shift to follow his dreams to make a lasting impression on the built environment. As well as working for LHC Design, Simon is Vice Chairman of the Royal British Legion, Honorary Treasurer of the RIBA in Plymouth, and an associate lecturer at Plymouth University.
We sat down with him to explore and celebrate his experiences and achievements so far.
Why architecture?
For me, architecture is both a personal and professional evolution – one that reflects where I’ve come from, and where I want to go.
My interest in architecture began at a young age, fascinated by the precision, creativity, and problem-solving embedded in architectural drawings. This early intrigue developed into a hands-on understanding of construction through my training and work as a carpenter, where I learned to work with materials, structure and detail.
My military service instilled discipline, leadership, and resilience – skills that continue to shape my approach to professional challenges. Later, in furniture design, I explored form, proportion, and the fusion of traditional and modern techniques, developing a strong sensitivity to spatial quality and craftsmanship.
Architecture brings these experiences together, enabling me to work at the intersection of technical skill, conceptual thinking and social responsibility. It offers the opportunity to design with purpose, respond to context and contribute positively to the built environment.
What does a “successful” project mean to you – personally and professionally? What kind of projects are you most excited to work on now or in the future?
A successful project, to me, is one that stays true to its original design concept –maintaining integrity and key design elements despite budget constraints, while effectively delivering on the brief. I’m especially excited by historical preservation and retrofit projects, where there’s an opportunity to honour the past while thoughtfully adapting it for the future. I find real satisfaction in seeing design details carried through with cohesion and purpose. Most recently, I was proud to contribute to LHC’s successful delivery of the new Tithebarn Green Local Centre in Exeter.
How do you think contemporary architects can balance preserving the past with designing for the future?
I feel it’s important to assess the building and see what it needs on a case – by – case basis. We have a duty to respect the past but also have a vision for how the building can perform better and bring it into the future, in a sustainable and sympathetic way.
How do you stay inspired and keep growing as a designer?
Constant learning and observing and the desire to understand the work of others who’ve come before me helps me stay inspired and keep growing personally and professionally. My military career gave me the chance to travel widely, offering unique insights into how different cultures approach the built environment. Seeing what works – and what doesn’t – in various contexts has been hugely influential.
How do you approach collaboration – any philosophies or strategies that work for you?
For me, collaboration works best when it starts right from the beginning. It’s so valuable to get everyone’s perspectives and ideas out on the table early on. Different people -especially specialists in their fields – bring different priorities and ways of thinking, and hearing those from the start helps build a stronger, more well-rounded approach as the project develops.
What’s your favourite thing about working with the team at LHC Design?
My favourite thing about working with the team at LHC is the supportive, family-like atmosphere and inclusive work culture. It’s a place I genuinely enjoy coming to each day.
What makes it especially fulfilling is LHC’s strong community ethos. The practice is deeply involved in outreach and education, and I’ve had the chance to take part in initiatives like school workshops that introduce young people to architecture. It’s rewarding to be part of a team that values socially responsive design and giving back to the community.
What advice would you give to others looking to make a dramatic career shift into a creative field?
I would advise anyone to choose something you’re passionate about over the path of least resistance – you have many working years ahead, so make them count. For me, transitioning from the military to architecture has been a personal and professional evolution.
My time in the Royal Marines taught me adaptability, resilience, leadership, and a proactive mindset – qualities that continue to shape my work today. Embrace what you’ve learned from past experiences; they can be powerful assets in a new creative direction.
What’s one item you always have on your desk?
Squash.
Coffee, tea, or something stronger?
Whiskey, definitely.
What’s your go – to soundtrack whilst working?
Studying? Classical music. Working? Dance music – something with a good beat to keep you focused and upbeat throughout the day.
