Practice

Mode 1 Architects was first formed by Wilfred Achille. Tai Lau, a friend and former colleague from North East London Polytechnic Architectural School, formed the partnership in 1991.

Wilfred was born in London of West Indian parents. His former career was in the fashion industry and was also a part-time DJ.

Tai Lau, born in Hong-Kong, was sent abroad in 1976 to receive an English education at a boarding school in Somerset, England.

The partners met at NELP and became friends. Both believe architecture can be a tool to the betterment of society and decided to build a partnership to put this into practice.

Because of the partners' diverse background, the practice has an open minded attitude to design and new ideas.

Both partners believe the key to success of any project is to have a clear understanding of the client needs, weekly project reviews (quality checks), and to deliver work on time and to budget.

Setting up Arrangements

The practice is headed and managed by Wilfred Achille and Tai Lau, together they are responsible for the overall aspects of the design philosophy and architectural management of the practice. They are responsible for the office assisted by a team of senior architects and architect assistants. The team is supported by the RIBA central information services including Financial and Contract management services, CAD, Legal Advice, Research, Library and Archives.

The office operates a strict Quality Management System. All new projects are reviewed at directors weekly project meeting where programming the project life cycle are examined.