Kasia qualifies as Harrison Pitt’s latest architect

An architect from Poland has qualified in the UK at one of Lancaster’s leading practices.

Kasia Toloczko, who joined Harrison Pitt Architects in 2006, is now a registered architect with the Architects Registration Board (ARB).

As part of the qualification process, the 32-year-old returned to her native Poland to complete her Architecture and Urbanism studies at Bialystok Technical University in 2013.

Kasia moved to the UK after previously visiting London and falling in love with England’s heritage and traditional architectural style.

She said: “The diverse mix of historical and contemporary architecture was a particular draw to the UK for me. This differs vastly from Poland where the buildings are much more modern due to the country’s history.

“I’ve always been fascinated by old buildings, and I like England’s distinctive cottages and other historical structures. The UK also has stronger planning regulations to protect the heritage of local communities. That’s why I love Lancaster – the city has so much history.”

Richard Wooldridge, a director of Harrison Pitt Architects, said: “We have a great deal of experience within the business and, unusually for a practice of our size, a high proportion of fully-qualified architects. Kasia has proved herself to be a key member of the team and someone whose skills are valued by our clients. This is great news for the practice.”

Kasia, whose home region of Mazury, Poland is famous for its beautiful lakes and forests, regularly makes visits to the Lake District to be reminded of her home town.

At Harrison Pitt Architects, she works on a range of projects in the leisure, commercial, education, historical buildings and residential housing sectors. The Architects Registration Board (ARB) is the independent UK regulator of architects. Under Section 20 of the Architects Act 1997, the title ‘architect’ is protected and can only be used in business or practice by people who have had the education, training and experience needed to become an architect.