People

Farah Fahmawi is a Part II Architectural Assistant at Orbit Architects, and is currently working towards her Part III qualification and ARB registration. Farah received her Architectural Degree with Honours from the Jordan University of Science and Technology. Farah also received a scholarship from the European Union to be an architect researcher at the University of Lisbon Portugal, to do a study on Urban Design for water flooding and climate change in Europe.

Since joining Orbit, Farah has worked on diverse projects in architecture design and interior fit-out such as large scale commercial, high-end residential buildings, luxurious hotels and workplaces. 

When not working, Farah’s other passion is to travel and explore other countries and cultures. Farah is originally from Jordan, but her heart is divided across all the countries where she has visited. Farah speaks multiple languages, and living abroad has given her the ability to have a wider understanding of people's needs.

While everyone’s definition of success is different, Farah strongly believes that ‘Great things never come from comfort zones.’ Being at Orbit Architects, and working alongside the expert team satisfies her hunger to learn, and be part of challenging projects. Being a part of the Orbit team is also like being part of one big family, where you enjoy fun and social activities, while being supported in your professional development at the same time.

Working at Orbit is one of the main reasons Farah is energised to wake up every morning – besides of course, the best coffee and cookies at the office!

Harjyot, known as Harry, joined Orbit Architects as an Architectural Assistant in March 2024.

Harry earned his professional degree in Architecture in India and subsequently spent four years with an award-winning architecture firm in Gurgaon. There has contributed to several award-winning architectural competition entries. His portfolio includes diverse projects across sports, transport, education infrastructure, as well as commercial and residential sectors. Notably, one of his residential projects was featured on ArchDaily.

Pursuing his career ambitions, Harry moved to the UK for his master's degree, graduating with first-class honours from The University of Sheffield in January 2024. During his studies, he actively participated in live projects, designing for not-for-profit clients and contributing to community betterment. His studio project, a multicultural centre for Singapore, celebrated the city’s multicultural identity.

Harry draws significant inspiration from cultural design, reflecting his roots in an architecturally rich country. He emphasizes contextual design, integrating urban fabric with cultural and community elements in his concepts.

Since joining Orbit Architects, Harry has contributed to a hotel feasibility scheme and various commercial projects. He values the contrasting professional experience in the UK and aims to pursue his Part 3 qualification soon.

In his spare time, Harry enjoys watching sports such as football, Formula 1, and basketball, avidly supporting AC Milan, Ferrari, and the Lakers. He also loves cooking his favorite dishes and exploring London’s vibrant cityscape.

Haydon is a RIBA Part 1 Architectural Assistant at Orbit Architects and is completing his RIBA Part I at the University of Bath. His academic journey has cultivated a strong interest in environmentally-oriented design and the role architecture plays in fostering community. This blend of environmental focus and social impact is at the heart of his architectural vision.

Outside his professional life, Haydon enjoys cooking and travelling, constantly seeking new culinary experiences to share with friends and family. His artistic pursuits extend beyond architecture, encompassing visualisation and art, which further inspire his work and drive his commitment to creating meaningful spaces.

At Orbit Architects, Haydon has embraced the challenge of working independently across various projects and stages. He values the trust placed in him and thrives on the opportunity to learn from the team's diverse expertise. This environment not only enhances his skills but also deepens his understanding of different facets of architecture.

Haydon's passion for the arts, combined with his desire to positively impact communities, fuels his dedication to the field. His time at Orbit Architects has been marked by growth and learning, driven by a supportive team that encourages both independence and collaboration.

Jacqueline has worked in the construction industry for over 25 years, starting her career as a Construction Broker in the City of London. Prior to kick-starting her construction career, she lived and worked in Australia for many years, in both Sydney and Melbourne, finally returning to the UK for good in her late 20’s.

Jacqueline’s role at Orbit Architects is to support both the Board & Team Directors to identify new client opportunities, manage existing client relationships; as well as provide support with events and strategic planning to ensure we increase our visibility and future growth.

Jacqueline is also a Trustee of a children’s charity ‘Curve Foundation’, which supports children and young adults with mental health issues, a topic which is very close to her heart. She is passionate about supporting the charity due to her own personal journey with mental health issues throughout the years and is equally passionate about supporting colleagues at Orbit Architects, with whom she has worked with since 2011.

Being a passionate individual, she loves travelling around the globe with her family. She also enjoy exercising, in various formats, as well as reading, diving, snorkelling - well the ocean in general!

She believes that the Architects and Designers at Orbit truly do make a difference to the world we live in through their sustainable and technically viable approach to client briefs. Which in turn creates amazing spaces in all sectors of the industry, for people to enjoy now and in the future.

Llinos is a Director at Orbit Architects.

Llinos heads up interior design projects at Orbit Architects. Having been awarded a First Class BA (Hons) Interior Design degree at Leeds Metropolitan University, Llinos started her career at a large multi-disciplinary firm, before joining Orbit in 2009. Llinos was promoted to Team Director two years later.

The projects she’s worked on vary from student accommodation to private residential projects. Her passion lies with office design though, whether that be a fantastic blank canvas of a brand new space or the challenge of reconfiguring and coordinating an existing office.

There are some that take going to work for granted, while others thoroughly dislike their place of work. So, it brings Llinos great satisfaction to be able to create exciting workplaces for clients. This could be a simple addition of basic facilities for some, and for others it could be adding that wow factor that makes them buzz when they’re at work.

Her Welsh roots mean she’s ridiculously nosey. Checking out what everyone else is doing in the design industry comes naturally to her and provides the best inspiration for her work.

Unashamedly, her absolute first passion is socialising and spending time eating and drinking with friends and family. This might be afternoon tea at the Waldorf or a fine steak at Hawksmoor but you’ll find she’s equally happy on the side-lines of a Welsh rugby game, plastic pint in hand belting out the anthem!

She is a self-proclaimed workaholic. She is in her element when taking on coordination challenges of on an on-site project or presenting a new scheme to a happy client.

Meghna Patel is an Team Director at Orbit Architects.

She has a BSc in Architecture from University of Florida and an MSc in Planning and Development from University College London. With over 15 years of experience working in architecture practices in London and New York City, she is mostly acquainted with large scale projects such as airports, 400+ unit housing and office towers.

At Orbit Architects, Meghna is working on the Thames Tideway Tunnel Central project involved in the delivery of high-quality designed kiosks in the public realm. She also is working on a guidebook of fire stopping details for the remedial works at Capital Way (housing development).

Meghna is a qualified architect, a former member of the American Institute of Architects and a Mentor at Fluid – a programme that promotes diversity and inclusion in the built environment. Meghna also sits on the connecting communities committee for the London Borough of Waltham Forest.

Before the pandemic and having kids, Meghna was an avid traveler and photographer. When not working, she is slowly renovating her very old house and spending time with her young family. Meghna is motivated by her family, making connections, and planning new adventures.

Meghna believes that Orbit provides a quality no nonsense architecture and design service. It is a humble practice that values their employees. It runs as efficiently as a corporate office but has a small-office friendly culture.

Natalie is a Team Director at Orbit Architects.

Natalie is an architect with a natural affliction for conceptual design. Spending most of her time at the Oxford School of Architecture defying form and designing space out of shadow, then progressing her investigations in Virtual Reality.

At Orbit Architects, she has become the resident heritage and listed building enthusiast working on properties in the Grosvenor Estates and slowly introducing them to a Revit friendly format.

Natalie’s multicultural background and knack for languages has her traveling every chance she gets. She is especially drawn to the Mediterranean coast line, with dreams of visiting everywhere from the tops on the Andes to Iceland and then back to the Greek islands of course!

Nick is a RIBA Part 2 Architectural Assistant at Orbit Architects.

He completed his RIBA Part I at Leeds Beckett University and gained some experience in the UK before embarking on an adventure in Brasilia, Brazil, where he immersed himself in the modernist capital and South American culture for a few years. Nick returned to the UK, settling in London to study his RIBA Part 2 at the University of Greenwich.

Nick's easy-going nature fits in perfectly with the friendly camaraderie of the Orbit team, although his dry Northern humour can sometimes be challenging to pick up. As someone from a small town who has worked in smaller practices, Nick understands the critical importance of a close-knit team that gets the job done while having a good laugh doing it. He is currently working on a stage 4, Cat A fit out.

Since joining Orbit Architects, Nick has enjoyed the challenge of diving in and has appreciated the trust placed in him to work independently, while also feeling comfortable seeking advice or help when needed.

Outside of the office, Nick has a severe football addiction and plays and watches as much as possible. When not on the football pitch or in the office, Nick enjoys heading to the pub with friends or colleagues to unwind and have a few pints while chatting about life.

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Petya is a Team Director at Orbit Architects.

Petya has a multi disciplinary academic background, having graduated with a BA (Hons) Engineer Architect, M Arch Architecture (Hons) and MA (Hons) Manager of Investment Projects, all from the University of Structural Engineering & Architecture (VSU) Sofia, Bulgaria.

Originally from Bulgaria, Petya moved to London 8 years ago. She is a member of The Chamber of Architects in Bulgaria, as well as a registered architect at the ARB.

Throughout her career, Petya has primarily focused on the public and leisure sectors, designing spaces that people enjoy and feel excited to use. She has a diverse range of experiences covering cinema and auditorium design, retail and shopping centres, residential, casinos, and nightclubs.

At Orbit Architects, Petya is able to explore her passion for renovating and breathing new life into old architecture, particularly through her work on the refurbishment of a Grade II listed building in Upper Grosvenor Street. She also has a keen interest in sustainable architecture and listed buildings and welcomes opportunities to broaden her knowledge and skills in all areas of Architecture.

Petya believes in combining various forms of art with architecture to create more complete and interesting results that meet clients' needs. Outside of work, Petya enjoys pursuing her hobbies, including arts, music, and photography. She has even had her photographs published in The Guardian UK. When she is not working or indulging in her hobbies, she loves nothing more than cuddling up with her puppy Mini Schnauzer.

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Philip studied architecture at the University of Nottingham, graduating with a first class degree many years ago. Prior to founding Orbit Architects, he worked for a major London practice gaining extensive experience and worked with major blue chip commercial clients. He was at the forefront of the Puprose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) sector, and also involved in several iconic hotel developments. Philip set up orbit in 2006 with a wish to get back into practicing architecture and engaging with Clients and Design Teams once again.

Philip has led many projects at Orbit Architects across their key sectors. These include EMEA Headquarters for several global organisations, the Cambridge Graphene Centre, an academic research facility for University of Cambridge, PBSA projects across the UK, development of prestigious hospitality projects, and refurbishment, extension and fit-out of offices. On top of that he has led several high-end residential projects for High Net Worth clients, and schemes creating over 1,000 new homes. Philip led the masterplanning and regeneration of Gilwell Park, for the Scout Association, and then went on to upgrade other Scout Activity Centres. Many of the projects Philip has delivered have a heritage aspect.

Philip has led, and been totally engaged with, every project at Orbit – be it a small toilet refurb or a large multi-million pound new-build. He understands that an architect is in a unique position to be able to makes things better, whether it is creating a beautiful inspiring space, adding value, harmony in an elevation, or a unique detail that makes you smile.

Away from work Philip loves a beach, or a city, or skiing. Always best when enjoyed with great food and a glass of local wine. He chunks through many books a year, swaying between sci-fi, autobiographies and books that tell us what a wonderful world we live in.

Ever the optimist he believes in tomorrow and wants to take us all on that journey to a better world. Especially at Orbit where his energy drives the company forward and makes Orbit a great enthusiastic team.

Prabjyot or ‘Prabz’ to his colleagues is a Team Director at Orbit Architects.

Prabjyot graduated his RIBA Part 1 and Part 2 at Kingston University and is currently studying towards his RIBA Part 3 at The University of Westminster.

Before joining Orbit Architects, Prabz had spent four and a half years working with a major global interior design practice where he worked on a range of high-end residential schemes.

While at Orbit, Prabz has been involved in a variety of projects with his recent involvement being in Thames Tideway Tunnel Central, a major infrastructure project based in London, 6-14 High Street, Romford, and Chequer House, both of which are residential projects with one comprising of new development.  Currently, he is working with the Orbit team on Peninsular House which is a CAT-A office refurbishment in the heart of London.

In his spare time, Prabz enjoys creating artwork, long walks, reading and has currently been learning the electric guitar and Unity gaming development. He enjoys most things mechanical and has a habit of dismantling and assembling objects. While at work he is motivated by the challenges and continuous development of each of the projects he works on, seeing each day as a step closer to the final product.

What he loves about Orbit is the forward-thinking nature of the company, the welcoming and friendly members of the team as well as the ongoing support and encouragement that has been provided while at Orbit.

Terence is an Architect at Orbit Architects and registered in Hong Kong.

His journey into this field began with a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from Northumbria University in UK, followed by a Master's degree at the University of Hong Kong, complemented by specialised diplomas in Urban Design, Environmental Engineering Management and Interior Design. These formative academic years laid a robust foundation, equipping him with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for a career in architecture.

Throughout his career spans over two decades, he has continuously evaluated and learned from each project, striving to enhance my capabilities and deliver better outcomes. By weaving together personal insights, project illustrations, and strategic cross-references, he aims to showcase not just the breadth of his experience but also the depth of his commitment to architectural innovation and sustainable development.

Driven by a passion for innovation and sustainable design, encompassing diverse roles and projects across the globe. From unique approach dealing with projects in Egypt to pioneering Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) solutions in Hong Kong, each endeavour has deepened his sense in different cultural settings to advancing architectural excellence and environmental responsibility.

In the long-term goal, he is passionate about advocating for policy reforms that address pressing global challenges such as urbanisation, climate change resilience, and equitable access to quality housing, engaging with community stakeholders to prioritise environmental sustainability and enhance the resilience of urban infrastructure against climate change impacts.

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Victor, also known as Po-Hung, is an Architectural Assistant at Orbit Architects.

He has a BSc in Architecture from Taiwan and an MA in Spatial and Interior Design from the University of the Arts London.

During his experience in architecture and interior design firms in Taiwan and China, Victor was involved in diverse projects ranging from residential, commercial and hospitality to exhibitions and art installations. Since joining Orbit, he has worked on prestigious hospitality projects including the Savoy Hotel and the Royal Air Force members club.

As a designer, Victor likes to walk around the city and observe the surroundings through photography. He also enjoys cooking various cuisines to share with friends and relatives and exploring new flavours. Victor likes travelling around the world, experiencing different cultures and getting inspired by foreign urban design. Having lived in Taiwan, Australia, China, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, Victor enjoys opening his heart and vision to people all around the globe.

Victor believes that architecture reflects society, a harmony of the new and old. Design should not just aim for an aesthetic arrangement of things but create a relationship between the users' inner self and space through a meaningful outcome.

Working at Orbit Architects has been a great learning experience for Victor, as it allows him to work with a multicultural team from diverse backgrounds. He cherishes the supportive and encouraging environment that has been fostered within the company. His colleagues' varied expertise and skills are a constant source of learning and growth for him.

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