About

Architect RIBA, ARB, Passive House Designer, NEC4 Project Manager
Edelle has been a valued member of the McGurk Architects team since 2006 where she first worked as a Part I Architectural Assistant before becoming a Chartered Architect in 2012, following her studies at Queens University Belfast. Edelle continued to advance through the company, demonstrating dedication and expertise, leading to her appointment as Director in 2022 where she is now responsible for the management and growth of the practice.

Edelle has experience across a range of sectors and has spearheaded numerous notable projects. She was responsible for the delivery of the innovative tourism project, the Sperrin Sculptural Trail, which is currently receiving worldwide attention as well as Raidio Failte, a multi-award-winning community radio project on Divis Street, Belfast. Edelle has also recently completed the design and build of her own home, a split-level dwelling designed to near Passive standard, where she lives with her husband and four young girls including twins.

Interesting Fact: In her spare time, Edelle likes to push her limits in the fitness world and has competed in Crossfit competitions, Ironman 70.3 and Hyrox competitions. She has also won All-Ireland medals with her club and county playing camogie in Croke Park.

RIBA, ARB

Following his academic pursuits at Queens University Belfast and the University of Ulster, Fergal has been an integral part of the McGurk Architects team since 2016.

Fergal is a talented Chartered Architect with a strong flare for design, earning recognition through various industry accolades such as RSUA Project Architect of the Year 2022, Young Architect of the Year 2022, and Belfast Telegraph Young Architect of the Year 2018.

Fergal’s expertise lies in his ability to craft innovative design solutions to solve problems and add value to projects. He has a passion for retrofit projects which seek to find a sustainable alternative to demolition and re-building. This is showcased by his projects, the James Connolly Visitor Centre which was named the 2022 Building of the Year, and Belfast Back Care, Best Refurbishment Project at BAYA 2022. He also finds fulfilment in contributing to community projects that enrich people's lives.

Beyond his professional endeavours, Fergal maintains a strong focus on family, actively supporting the family business and farm. He nurtures passions for travel and photography while staying physically active through road running and participation in Gaelic football for his local club.

Interesting Fact: “I know Michael Hughes who was an extra on the HBO TV Series Game of Thrones.”

Michael was among the inaugural team members of McGurk Architects, starting his journey as a Junior Technician in 1996. Over the years, he has ascended through various roles, from Senior Technician to Office Manager, before being appointed Director within the firm in 2026.

From a child finding the detailed "blueprint" drawings of an extension to his family home, Michael became intrigued by the technical aspect of buildings and figuring out how things come together. This innate curiosity drives his passion for detailing which endures to this day. Michael's expertise lies in construction techniques, and he thrives on the challenges of problem-solving. Michael brings a wealth of experience to the practice. He has played a pivotal role in the majority of the projects undertaken
by McGurk Architects, including high-profile endeavours such as the James Connolly Visitor Centre, Corriewood Private Clinic and Bunhill 2 Energy Centre.

In his spare time, Michael has enjoyed a successful GAA playing career with his club, college & county and currently serves as team manager/ coach at his local club. Plus, playing golf as much as possible!

Interesting Fact:
Michael is a nephew of the Nobel Prize-winning poet, Seamus Heaney and is a Dual GAA Colleges All-Star winner.

Pierre joined McGurk Architects after relocating to Northern Ireland, bringing with him over a decade of experience in architectural practice. He completed both his Part I and Part II studies at the Canterbury School of Architecture before qualifying as a Chartered Architect in 2017 after completing his Part III at the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London.

Prior to joining McGurk Architects, Pierre spent ten years with RX Architects, where he developed extensive experience in the residential sector. He has a particular interest in community, civic and urban design projects, together with craft-led architecture that celebrates collaboration with skilled fabricators to create bespoke, well-crafted buildings.

Pierre believes that architecture is fundamentally about people and the way they live. He is passionate about designing buildings that support everyday routines, encourage social interaction and create meaningful places that positively shape people's lives.

Interesting Fact: Pierre has taken part in the official one-day Tour de France sportive in the French Alps for the past four years and will once again be on the start line for the 2026 edition. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring landscapes both locally and abroad by bike or on foot.

Niall first joined McGurk Architects in 2006 as a Part I Architectural Assistant. Following the completion of his Master's degree at Ulster University, he gained valuable experience with several well-established architectural practices across Northern Ireland before qualifying as an Architect through Queen's University Belfast in 2016. After ten years in practice, Niall returned to McGurk Architects in 2026, bringing with him a wealth of experience across a broad range of sectors.

Throughout his career, Niall has successfully delivered a number of notable projects, including Northern Ireland's first purpose-designed Adult Day Centre for the National Autistic Society. His portfolio also includes healthcare, tourism, hospitality, industrial, commercial and residential projects, providing him with a diverse skill set and a strong understanding of client needs across different sectors.

Niall has a particular passion for bespoke private homes and enjoys building strong relationships with clients, guiding them through the design process to create considered, functional and beautifully crafted homes that reflect the way they live.

He believes architecture is a social art, shaped by the interaction between people and place and achieved through collaboration. His design approach is centred on the careful use of materials, natural light and contextual awareness to create architecture that is both thoughtful and enduring.

Interesting Fact: Outside of architecture, Niall spends most of his time with his wife and two young daughters. He is also an avid reader of restaurant menus for places he may never visit and, despite having no hair himself, is a lifelong fan of hair metal.

Steven graduated from the University of Ulster with a bachelor’s in architecture before joining McGurk Architects. Raised on a rural farm, Steven has a profound appreciation for the countryside, igniting his passion for projects that seamlessly blend with and enhance their natural surroundings. He has contributed to various residential and commercial endeavours at the firm including H&A’s new head office and BMC Engineering’s major factory extension.

Away from the office, Steven manages a small art business creating realism commissions using acrylic paint. Steven loves to explore new places in his spare time and paddleboards when the weather allows.

Interesting Fact: Steven, along with his wife, toddler and Cockapoo named 'Arlo,' currently resides in a static caravan as they embark on the journey of building their new home.

Michael joined the McGurk Architects team in 2014 after graduating from the University of Ulster with a degree in Architectural Technology and Management (BSC Hons). With over a decade of experience under his belt, he has worked on a number of diverse major projects including the Mountain View social housing scheme and the Roscrea Primary Care Centre in Tipperary. Michael specialises in bespoke residential projects, where he finds fulfilment in unique detailing and provides guidance to clients embarking on their self-building journey.

In his spare time, Michael enjoys training and competing in Brazilian Jujitsu as well as rock wall climbing.

Interesting Fact:
Michael once made a cameo appearance as an extra on the HBO TV series, Game of Thrones.

Karolina joined McGurk Architects in 2025, bringing with her a diverse range of experience gained across Poland, Germany and Northern Ireland. Following her studies at the Technical University of Gdańsk, she began her career as a Part I Architectural Assistant in Europe before relocating to Northern Ireland in 2021.

Karolina has contributed to a variety of projects, with particular experience in the education and community sectors. Her international background allows her to bring fresh perspectives to design challenges, while her organised and methodical approach ensures high-quality outcomes throughout each stage of a project. She enjoys working collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams and has been involved in projects from early concept design through to detailed technical delivery.

Passionate about thoughtful, people-focused design, Karolina is committed to developing practical and creative architectural solutions that respond to both client aspirations and the wider built environment.

Interesting Fact: Originally from Poland, Karolina enjoys exploring Northern Ireland's coastline and countryside in her spare time and has a passion for travelling and discovering different cultures and architecture.

Charlene joined McGurk Architects in 2025 and plays an important role in the day-to-day administration and smooth running of the practice. With a strong organisational approach and excellent attention to detail, she supports the team across a range of administrative functions, ensuring projects and office operations run efficiently.

Growing up on a family farm and continuing to help manage a cattle farm in her spare time has equipped Charlene with valuable skills in organisation, time management, teamwork and problem-solving. It has also instilled a strong work ethic, together with the importance of responsibility and reliability—qualities she brings to every aspect of her role.

Interesting Fact: Before joining McGurk Architects, Charlene worked in hairdressing, where she developed excellent customer service and communication skills that continue to benefit her in her role today.

Bridie Gribbin is an invaluable member of our team, expertly managing our company accounts with precision and dedication. Her great knack for dealing with people ensures smooth financial operations and excellent client relations. Bridie's approachability and professionalism make her a key asset to our company.

Interesting Fact: In her spare time, Bridie loves to travel, exploring new destinations and cultures around the world