The practice founder may work in Manchester but he is a Leeds United fan. He has worked on a string of notable projects in the North-west including Stubbs Mill, Foundry and the Toastrack 

Nick Moss, practice founder (WEB)

Nick worked for Manchester-based practices Stephenson and Bell and later Hodder + Partners before setting up his own practice, originally known as Sixtwo Architects, in 2012 

Why did you choose construction as a career?

I have always been interested in design, and being an architect seemed the natural fit between art and science.

What has been your biggest career challenge to date?

Delivering Stubbs Mill for Urban Splash. The mill was only just standing and we had a limited budget to bring it back to life. The cost constraints meant we had to sweat every design choice.

What have you worked on that you’re most proud of?

Stubbs Mill in Manchester.

If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be?

Procurement, for both architects and main contractors.

Most helpful advice you were given?

Become immune to being frustrated how long the construction process takes.

What is your favourite building in the world?

This is an ever-changing list, but I love the Tate Modern.

Tate Modern

Current favourite building: Tate Modern 

What single piece of advice would you give to someone just starting out in your profession?

Work harder and smarter than your competition.

Who do you most admire in the construction industry?

Anyone wanting to go the extra mile to move the industry forward.

What famous building do you wish you had worked on?

Wright’s New York Guggenheim.

Which famous building do you most dislike?

20 Fenchurch Street (aka The Walkie-talkie). It’s awkward and out of context.

What’s it like being you?

I probably make my life difficult by always looking for excellence in my work.

Guggenheim New York

Source: Shutterstock

Frank Lloyd Wright designed the Solomon R Guggenheim Museum on Fifth Avenue in New York. It was constructed between 1956 and 1959. 

What do you think your best quality is?

Believing there is a solution to every challenge.

What trait do you most dislike in yourself? And in other people?

The justification: “That’s how we’ve always done it.”

Do you have a life philosophy?

“How can we make it better?”

Name three things that you like

My awesome family (obvs), Leeds United, visiting great architecture.

What’s a secret skill we don’t know you have?

I coach my son’s rugby team.

What is your most prized possession?

At the moment, my new silver Mizzuno Morelia Neo rugby speed boots that I paid far too much for in the hope I might run as fast I used to.

Early bird or night owl?

Night owl.

What’s your favourite food?

Anything spicy and fragrant.

What would your superpower be?

Ultra hyperkinesic perception sounds like an architect’s dream.

 

Topics