BCAE Architects marks growth with two appointments

Chorley-based BCAE Architects has announced two exciting new additions to its growing team.

Now in it’s third year, BCAE are a high end, full service architects practice working across projects that include new homes, sensitive sites, refurbishments and extensions, interiors design and larger commercial developments  – across the North West and beyond.

Lena Karim joins BCAE as an architect, and will play a key role in project delivery from early feasibility and concept design through to technical stages and on-site coordination.

Her responsibilities include producing design proposals, managing consultant input, preparing planning submissions and contributing to the technical execution of each scheme.

After working at an award winning Manchester City Centre studio, she then qualified as an architect at Gilling Dod, with experience working on a range of creative commercial and interior fit-out schemes, where she developed a refined design sensibility and the adaptability required for varied high-end project types.

She said: “I was drawn to BCAE’s thoughtful, context-led approach and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful, high-quality architecture team.

“The studio has a refreshing culture that promotes work-life balance while still offering space to grow, which made it a natural next step in my career.”

Tarran Coward-Willis joins BCAE as an experienced architectural assistant, bringing a wide-ranging background in residential, healthcare, and energy-sector projects.

In this role, he’ll be leading design work, guiding clients through each stage of their project, and taking on the studio’s popular “Coffee with an Architect” consultations, providing informal advice to those just starting out on their design journey.

After starting out at Bowman Riley, Tarran went on to support the delivery of bespoke large-scale homes—including listed properties and new builds.

A subsequent role at Porcelanosa added specialist knowledge in interior design and materials consultancy, which will further support BCAE’s expanding interiors offering.

 He said: “My aim is to keep clients engaged and excited throughout the design process, giving clear advice and helping them feel confident in the direction we’re taking together. BCAE offers the perfect blend of ambition, collaboration, and creativity—I'm thrilled to be part of the team.”

BCAE Architects, owned by Ben Craven and Arron El-ammar, is renowned for bringing a fresh modern outlook, based on a solid foundation of creativity and expertise, to help customer’s dream homes come to life.

Arron El-ammar said: “With a growing portfolio and a commitment to design excellence, at BCAE we continue to invest in a team that blends creativity with technical expertise.

"The appointment of Tarran and Lena reflects our ongoing mission to deliver exceptional architecture through collaboration, innovation, and a people-first approach."

For more information on BCAE or to book a “Coffee with an Architect” session, visit BCAE Architects | Preston