Architects Weston Williamson + Partners win prestigious Queen’s Award

Crossrail architects Weston Williamson + Partners have come just the third architecture practice to hold an illustrious Queen’s Award after being recognised for shaping world class design.

Established in 1985 by Andrew Weston and Chris Williamson, the latest award for Enterprise (International Trade) adds to the growing collection with the firm involved in major projects globally which include Crossrail, the Melbourne Metro extension and two stations on the Yonge metro line extension in Toronto.

Working on a wide range and scale of infrastructure, urban regeneration and place making projects has allowed the architects to export UK expertise across the world. The result of this being international fees growing by over 600% in the last three years.

The practice’s first big break came in 1991 with the award-winning design of the Jubilee line station at London Bridge, establishing the practice as one of the leading architects responsible for the ongoing improvement of the capital’s transport system. 

But it’s the recent international wins that have enabled the establishment of studios in Melbourne, Sydney and most recently Toronto, with staff numbers now at 150.

The Queen’s Award for Enterprise is an awards programme for British businesses and other organisations who excel at international trade.  They are the highest official awards for British business and were first awarded in 1966.  

Founding partner Chris Williamson said the firm was delighted to win the Queen’s Award which recognises success in designing and delivering complex city-shaping projects around the world.  

“London has led the world in gradually coaxing people out of cars and onto safe, reliable, efficient public transport, bringing with it great benefits to the environment and creating a more civilised city,” he added. “Our export success shows that you don’t have to be a huge company to work and sell abroad.  If you have a specialism, if you’re expert in your field, there are great opportunities.”