A North East architecture practice which set up an office in Mongolia has won a contract for a multi-million regeneration project in the country’s capital Ulaanbaatar.
Ryton-based Gradon Architecture has had plans approved for Galleria UB, which will transform a disused former print works into a high end shopping centre.
Gradon last year became the first UK architect to set up a base in the former Soviet republic and is also involved in projects in the country involving new housing and public buildings.
The shopping centre design will see the exterior of the disused print works restored to its former glory, while the interior will be revamped to create a light and modern retail space. The architect’s plans include two floors of high-end retail space, with a number of retailers already expressing an interest.
Gradon’s technical director Tanja Smith, who heads up the Mongolia studio, said: “This has been an amazing project for everyone involved.
“Mongolia, and Ulaanbaatar in particular, is changing very quickly and it’s hugely exciting to be involved in shaping the future of the city. Galleria UB is in a prime location and will offer an unrivalled shopping experience to both tourists and residents alike.
“With bases in the UK and Mongolia, as well as Northern Ireland, we bring the unique combination of local knowledge and UK expertise in sustainable design solutions to the project. As Mongolia’s urban regeneration continues we look forward to bringing our sustainable design solutions to more sites across the city.”
Gradon made history last year when the practice became the first UK architect to set up in Mongolia, opening a design studio and initially taking on three local staff to add to its UK expertise.
In its first 18 months the practice has worked on a number of prestigious design projects in the country including the Tuguldur shopping centre, Nukht Valley sustainable housing, and an extension to a school.
The company is also working with The Christina Noble Foundation in Mongolia, creating better places for orphans to live and receive an education as well as also assisting the Lotus Childrens Foundation to help it improve its facilities.
As well as its bases on Tyneside and in Mongolia, Gradon last year opened an office in Derry, Northern Ireland, and is looking to expand.
