Our approach to the design and building process – in four stages
Every project is unique, but our process provides a clear framework from the first meeting through to completion.
We have broken the process down into four distinct stages so you can familiarise yourself with our workflow.
Stage 1: Initial Design
We begin by understanding your aspirations, site and budget. Through discussions, site analysis and initial sketches, we develop a design concept that responds to your brief and lays the foundation for the project.
Stage 2: Developed Design
The preferred design is refined and developed in greater detail. We work closely with you to finalise the layout, appearance and materials, ensuring the design is practical, sustainable and ready for planning where required.
Stage 3: Detailed Design & Tender
Once the design is approved, we prepare detailed construction drawings and specifications. We coordinate with consultants, ensure compliance with Building Regulations and assist with the tender process to help you appoint the right contractor.
Stage 4: Construction & Completion
During construction, we provide professional support through regular site inspections, respond to technical queries and work with the contractor to maintain quality throughout the build. We remain involved until completion, helping to deliver a building that reflects the original design vision.
To view our portfolio of projects, click here.
Our Team
The roots of our practice go back to the 1950s, when MA Doherty set up business in Donegal Town. In the seventy-odd years since, the practice has evolved through name, location and personnel changes but at the core our business remains the same - we work at a local level, designing buildings that benefit local people.
To view our portfolio of projects, click here.
John Curran
B.Sc. Arch B. Arch MRIAI RIBA
Director, Chartered Architect,
Certified Passive House Designer
John has been involved in the construction industry since he began working in the 1980s as a construction technologist. Following his graduation from the University of Dundee with a Bachelor of Architecture, John worked with BKD Architects in Dublin before joining Allan Associates. Now, as a chartered architect and registered Passive House designer, he combines decades of practical experience with a passion for sustainable, high-performance buildings.
Roci Allan
B.Sc. Arch B. Arch FRIAI RIBA
Associate, Chartered Architect, Grade III Conservation Architect
Roci brings over 40 years of architectural expertise to the practice, with a particular focus on conservation work. His passion for vernacular and heritage architecture ensures every project is handled with sensitivity and precision. Roci is a certified Grade III Conservation Architect and provides invaluable insight to older buildings and restoration projects.
Laura Lipsett
B.Sc. Arch M. Arch MRIAI
Chartered Architect, Certified Passive House Designer
Laura has six years of experience working across Ireland and Australia on a wide variety of architectural projects. She graduated with a Master of Architecture from Queen’s University Belfast in 2011 before working in Australia for a number of years, and has been working with Allan Curran since 2022. Laura’s technical skills and global perspective add valuable depth and flexibility to the design team. Laura is a certified Passive House Designer.
Pauric Callaghan
B.Sc. Arch Tech B.Sc. Arch M. Arch
Part II Graduate Architect, Certified Passive House Designer
Pauric has ten years of experience in the construction world and has overseen a number of projects while working at Allan Curran Architects. Pauric graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Technology from LYIT in 2017 before going on to graduate with a Master of Architecture from Queen’s University Belfast in 2023. Before joining Allan Curran Architects in 2023, Pauric worked in Letterkenny with MacGabhann Architects and AL Architects. Pauric has a particular interest in film and photography and has brought creative and technical insight to the firm. Pauric is a certified Passive House Designer.
Gareth Lewthwaite
BSc Arch Tech and Management
Senior Technician, Certified Passive House Designer
Gareth is our senior technician and is crucial to the workflow of our firm. With 20 years of technical design experience, Gareth plays a key role in our project delivery. Gareth is also a Certified Passive House Designer, which enhances our team’s capability to deliver energy-efficient and future-ready homes and buildings. Gareth is a keen surfer and enjoys the rugged coastline and great waves that south Donegal is famous for.
Fionn Curran
B. Arch
Part II Graduate Architect
Fionn first worked with Allan Curran Architects during the academic summer holidays in 2021, and has worked on a wide variety of projects with us since. Fionn graduated from the School of Architecture, University of Limerick (SAUL) in 2026. He has a great interest in ecologically sensitive architecture and working with older structures, and worked in the Irish pavilion at the 2023 Venice Architecture Biennale, “In Search of Hy-Brasil”.
Julie Kee
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Office Manager
Julie is our practice manager, and has been a vital part of Allan Curran Architects since 2000. She oversees day-to-day operations and ensures the smooth co-ordination of projects and client communications.
Betty Graham
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Finance Manager
Betty has also been with Allan Curran Architects since 2000, and manages our finances with reliability and attention to detail. Her role is central to the firm’s financial planning and stability.
