The sky’s the limit for Plymouth architecture practice McCaren Design Ltd which has undertaken a rebrand to mark its transformation to a worker co-op.
Now called Studio Skein, the practice is wholly owned by its employees who share equitably in decision-making and company profits.
The new name reflects the equitable structure of the company. A skein - pronounced “skane” - is the V-shaped flight formation of wild geese that gives them the strength for long migrations.
The skein share the role of leading the V, whilst the uplift created reduces the effort for the following geese. When the lead goose tires, it rotates back into formation and another goose flies to the front.
The team at Studio Skein take their inspiration from this natural phenomenon, a structure which powers the collective achievements of the flock.
With a powerful new brand identity developed by Plymouth agency Just Enough Brave and a solid client base built up during 30 years, Studio Skein said it is “ready to fly”. The rebrand marks a new chapter for the business which has traded as McCaren Design since 1992.
Hilary Kolinsky, co-director, said: “Since the retirement of Robin McCaren in 2013, we have built up the business, employed new staff, and moved into new sectors that correspond with our sense of purpose. With the transition to a co-operative structure, our new brand aligns our company name with the collective strength that has powered our growth in recent years.”
The rebrand also gives new impetus to the practice’s recent change of focus, which has seen a large increase in workload from the social enterprise sector.
Fleur Powell, co-director, said: “Our collaborative ethos extends to our client relationships and the projects we work on. We strive to align our work with our core values of integrity, collaboration and equality, seeking out clients who are trying to make a positive difference in communities.
“We’ve helped a number of local social enterprises establish a space in the city and are always looking to support new initiatives.’
The newly named Studio Skein has been involved in many projects across the South West, including new homes in Westward Ho!, Tavistock and Bideford, and car showrooms at Marsh Mills, in Plymouth, and Truro. Other Plymouth developments include the RNLI station extension, Moments Cafe, and the restoration of St Saviours Hall.
The practice is looking forward to a bright future despite the challenges that face SMEs as a result of Covid 19. Co-operative businesses have been shown to have greater agility and resilience in the face of economic challenges, not least because staff have a vested interest in long-term success and a say in how the business is run.
Ms Kolinsky said: ”Like the skein, every team member is empowered to shape the direction of the practice, and to take the lead role for projects that suit their experience or expertise. We apply our creativity as much to the challenge of keeping the business flying smoothly through stormy times, as we do to the architectural projects we deliver.”
