At Scott Brownrigg, we’re proud to mark International Women’s Day during their milestone 115th anniversary. Representation - especially in senior roles - has never been more important. This year’s theme, 'Give to Gain', reminds us that progress happens when we support one another, champion diverse voices, and create opportunities for everyone to thrive.

We asked members of our team - women leading the way and male allies supporting change - to share what this theme means to them and how it shapes our culture and the architecture profession as a whole.

Harriet Methven-Smith, Communications Manager
“For me, 'Give to Gain' is about investing in each other so the whole industry moves forward. When we share knowledge, champion diverse voices, and actively support emerging talent, we create work that genuinely reflects and benefits the communities we’re designing for. Architecture is at its best when it’s collaborative, open, and generous, and that mindset strengthens both our culture and our impact.”

Barbara Toscani, Associate Architect
“You might sometimes feel extra pressure because your actions might be judged more closely within a male dominated industry, but please remember that you don’t need to carry that weight or let it define you. Don’t doubt yourself; doubt is often used, consciously or not, to hold women back. And forget the myth that women are each other’s biggest enemies - the real barriers come from long standing systems, and progress requires men and women supporting women. Finally, remember that careers in architecture aren’t linear; opportunities often appear in unexpected places.”

Elisa Scolaro, Architect, Design Safety Lead
“Seeing women represented across different levels of the company, including leadership and technical roles, creates visible role models and makes it clear how achievable these positions are with hard work and dedication. Equally important is the work being done by the EOT Committee, with conversations on inclusion and equality. Of course, there is always more that could be done. Continuing to support flexible working, strengthening mentorship opportunities, and ensuring clear and accessible pathways for career progression can all make a meaningful difference.”

Stuart Osborne-Cudmore, Project Director
“I feel that as a practice, we have made meaningful progress in improving gender balance. I recognise the great work that has gone in to raise greater awareness of equality issues including promoting more open conversations about inclusion. Ongoing changes to create clearer policies around flexible working and parental support help create an increased ethos of equality. I believe that all of this work within Scott Brownrigg signals a positive cultural shift. However, that shift needs to continue, including ensuring that progress is reflected at senior and decision-making levels. I believe that at Scott Brownrigg, we are heading in the right direction.”

Matthew Humphreys, Project Director
“If it is predominantly one demographic that is involved in the design of our environment, then the environment created will be rather narrow minded or derived from just one set of experiences. Women bring perspectives from their lived experiences which is critical in ensuring the spaces and places we design are accessible for all. Women being represented in senior roles is crucial to inspiring future generations to aspire to grow into these roles in the future and see and believe that this is attainable.”

Progress and Purpose

Across the practice, we see the impact of 'Give to Gain' in action - mentorship programs, flexible working policies, and inclusive leadership conversations. Representation matters, but so does action. By listening, supporting, and advocating for each other, we ensure that our designs and our culture reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.

At Scott Brownrigg, we’re not just celebrating women in architecture - we’re celebrating a future where everyone can thrive, contribute, and lead.

Join the Conversation

International Women’s Day is a reminder that progress isn’t a one-off initiative - it’s an ongoing commitment. As we look to the next 115 years, we remain dedicated to fostering equity, visibility, and opportunity across the architecture and built environment sectors.