In the latest instalment of Bdaily’s Then and Now series, Simon Dunstan, our co-founder and director, reflects on his career journey from his first role to today and shares the lessons he has learned along the way.
As co-founder and director, Simon leads the business, drives growth and supports GT3’s growing team. He continues to champion our People Architecture approach, which puts people at the heart of every decision, from how we collaborate as a team to the way our spaces are designed and experienced.
“We exist to create places and experiences that genuinely improve lives and make a positive impact,” Simon explained. “Whenever I can, I still love getting hands-on with projects, especially those involving existing buildings.”
Simon’s passion for architecture started at an early age.
“My lovely mum would say I wanted to be an architect from the age of four, and I can’t remember ever wanting to be anything else,” he shared. “It is a passionate vocation. If it’s in your blood, it is hugely gratifying. I have never regretted my decision.”
His first job, however, was a little different. As a Christmas delivery driver for a local electrical shop in Consett, Simon delivered TVs and HiFis to families ahead of the holidays.
“I really did feel like Santa Claus,” he laughed.
Reflecting on early influences, Simon credits his first boss, Geoff Mann, as a key mentor.
“He was charismatic, great with people and had a real gift for inspiring action. He’d attend stuffy board meetings in London wearing a blue shellsuit. The industry could do with a few more people like him.”
Simon describes architecture as the perfect intersection of art and science, a balance that helped shape GT3’s founding principles.
“Our people-first ethos grew naturally from that foundation. Architecture should do more than create buildings; it should make people’s lives better.”
As his career has evolved, Simon says that both personal and professional experiences have shaped him.
“Becoming a parent was a huge step-change. It made me see things differently, perhaps with a bit more humility. When I set up GT3, I came at it thinking ‘what can it do for me?’ Now I think ‘what can I do for GT3 and its people?’ Every person we employ makes a difference. Just as we shape them, they shape us.”
When asked about the future of work, Simon notes that the industry continues to evolve.
“Business is in a transitional phase. The economy is tough, and architecture isn’t exempt from rising costs and the skills gap. Most people now want flexibility and hybrid options, and we are seeing some really exciting, people-focused workplaces emerging as a result.
“At GT3, we have worked flexibly for years, and our move into our own hybrid office space has been a big milestone. It has strengthened our culture and helped our team feel even more connected to what we are building together.”