International design practice Scott Brownrigg has acquired a 100% stake in GMW Architects and GMW Architects International Ltd.

The move aligns with Scott Brownrigg’s strategic UK and international development plans and follows GMW’s successful appointment as lead designer for the prestigious new Istanbul Airport in Turkey, planned to be the largest airport in the world.

The acquisition, which completed on 7 August 2015, will strengthen Scott Brownrigg’s existing portfolio of schemes and the breadth and depth of its sector and service offering within the industry. As well as being on the Network Rail Framework, GMW has a significant reputation in the design of international transport schemes, particularly of airports; it also has a strong focus and history of designing and delivering office buildings within the City of London.

GMW Architects will now cease to trade under its name and will be assumed into the Scott Brownrigg Group. Internationally it will continue to trade as GMW Architects International Ltd in the short to medium-term.

Chief Executive Officer of Scott Brownrigg, Darren Comber stated, “The acquisition of GMW entirely fits with our approach of strengthening the practice for the future. The integration of complementary and successful architectural firms will offer us the ability to either enter new markets or add vertical and horizontal expansion to sectors we are already recognised for.

GMW has a respected reputation for designing and delivering City of London office buildings as well as being recognised as a leading designer of transportation projects, nationally and internationally.  Both of these sectors are specific areas of interest to Scott Brownrigg.

The acquisition of GMW will significantly contribute to the strengthening of the airport sector for Scott Brownrigg, a sector that we are internationally acclaimed for. It is part of our vision and desire to strengthen this status and the acquisition of GMW will contribute significantly to enabling this plan to be achieved.”

Combined with the recent opening of Scott Brownrigg’s office on Fifth Avenue in New York, the acquisition of GMW will increase Scott Brownrigg’s staff complement to approximately 300 across its nine offices worldwide.