Tricia Akers
Director

Tricia is one of AJA's longest-serving team members, having joined the practice in the 1988. Over the past three decades, she has played a significant role in shaping AJA's growth and culture, helping to ensure that thoughtful design, collaboration and client focus remain at the heart of the practice.

Director since: 2006
Design philosophy: Architecture rooted in place and context
Favourite Building: Fountains Abbey Visitor Centre, Cullinan Studio
Outside work: Volunteering, walking, cooking and running

"The best architecture comes from understanding people, place and context, and from collaboration between everyone involved in bringing a project to life."

After becoming a Partner in 2000 and a Director when AJA became a limited company in 2006, Tricia has worked across a wide range of sectors, bringing extensive experience in delivering projects that respond to their context, meet client aspirations and create lasting value.

Her approach is rooted in listening carefully, building strong relationships and guiding projects from the earliest conversations through to completion. Clients value her strategic perspective and her ability to balance design ambition with practical delivery.

Tricia is also passionate about supporting the next generation of architects. Throughout her career she has championed work experience opportunities, university placements and mentoring within the practice, as well as teaching at Nottingham Trent University. Helping emerging professionals develop their skills and confidence remains one of the most rewarding aspects of her role.

Her interest in architecture began on the journey to school, where she was inspired by the striking glass façades of Manchester's Royal Northern College of Music. That early fascination grew into a career dedicated to creating buildings that are sustainable, meaningful and deeply connected to their surroundings.

Outside the studio, Tricia is actively involved in her local community through a number of village organisations. She enjoys spending time with family, walking, cooking and running in the countryside.

Looking for an experienced architectural partner to guide your project? Tricia and the AJA team combine decades of experience with a collaborative, client-focused approach to create buildings that respond to people, place and purpose.