When you bring your project to PLACE, everyone of the Team will have some part to play in its journey. We think each project has the potential to improve the lives of those who interact with it, directly or indirectly. It is the complementary skills of each Team member at PLACE that ensures your project has value added.
Because the Team at PLACE make the difference for our clients, PLACE aims to make a difference to them too by offering opportunities for staff development through training activities, by providing a progressive, Agile Working policy that reflects demands on their lives as well as offering additional leave to be used for enrichment activities. We use annual Strategy Days, office trips and games to engender team spirit.
I began working with PLACE Architects Ltd (formerly Parkes Lees Architects Ltd) in December 2014. Our office is a positive environment with a clear determination to achieve and succeed, both as a company and individually. The team are friendly and welcoming, and everyone has a voice. Career progression is wholeheartedly encouraged and supported, showing the company’s commitment to investing time in its staff. It is an excellent environment in which to gain knowledge and experience, and with the support of PLACE I have achieved 2 new qualifications to date. What a ‘PLACE’ to work! – Jennifer
Jennifer Hawksworth
Office & Client Liaison Manager
Jennifer joined PLACE architects Ltd as a part time administrator in 2014. Completion of a BTEC Diploma in Business Administration soon led to promotion to full time Office Manager. Over time, Jennifer has progressed and added Client Liaison Manager and HR Manager to her varied role.
With responsibility for the smooth running of the office, Jennifer’s considered approach and extensive experience in customer service fits well with being our first point of contact for all new enquiries. Jennifer also assists the drawing office in the preparation and submission of planning application documentation.
Outside of work you will find Jennifer swimming, either indoors or outdoors, oil painting, or engrossed in a good book – but not at the same time of course.
Mark Kemp
Director
Mark has been the sole director of PLACE architects Ltd since 2009 and has been involved in construction for 30 years. After working on site in London and attending night school in Hammersmith, he went on to study architecture at South Bank University and graduated in Plymouth.
It is the engagement with so many people that has always been his passion – especially when there’s a knotty problem to unravel. He enjoys being involved with the RIBA and when not working can be found cooking for his family in Exeter, listening to football matches on 5 Live.
Ben Hardy
Architect
Ben has over six years’ experience working on live projects and became a registered architect in 2025 after completing his degree, master’s and diploma. He has experience across all project stages, from concept design and planning through to building regulations and construction.
Originally from Barnstaple, Ben considers the South West home and is passionate about preserving and enhancing its built environment. He has a keen interest in technology and software, continually exploring new ways to communicate designs effectively to clients and improve efficiency throughout the design process.
I have been working at PLACE since 2022 and immediately came to love the company’s tight-knit culture, and sense of place within Launceston and the wider Westcountry community. Working at PLACE has given me the opportunity to pass on the knowledge that I have gained from over 20 years in the construction industry, as well as encouraging me to continue to learn and grow personally. – Mike
Sue Clark
Finance Administrator
Mike Wellsbury-Nye
Architectural Technologist
Mike has worked in the construction industry for over 20 years, from laying concrete roads in West Sussex, to designing and detailing a vast range of building types and structures, working alongside a wide variety of clients and other building professionals. Having been the ‘designy one’ at a firm of consulting engineers for 20 years, he’s now enjoying the challenge of being the ‘technical one’ amongst a group of such talented architects.
I first started with PLACE when I was in Sixth form for work experience, I then returned whilst studying at university for placement and stayed for the summer.
I’m now very grateful that the practice is able to support me through an apprenticeship, which will see me complete my Master’s degree and then qualify as an Architect. – Niall
Niall Davies-Hale
Part I Architectural Assistant
Niall started at PLACE in 2021 whilst studying at Falmouth University. Now, he is an apprentice at Oxford Brookes completing his Master’s Degree and then qualifying as an Architect on completion of the course.
In his spare time, Niall enjoys paying rugby for his local team, surfing, and just being outside wherever possible!
Molly Kemp
Social Media & Marketing
Molly joined PLACE architecture in June 2018, since then she has coordinated the companies new name, logo and website. Molly has overseen new staff imagery, client testimonials and all the social media sites. PLACE has been the start of Molly’s career in Marketing and has allowed her to grow and learn at pace.
When not at work Molly enjoys travelling and filmmaking.
