About us
The Isle of Man Society of Architects was founded in 2013 with the primary goal of promoting architecture and design within the Isle of Man. Our architect members share a passionate commitment to enhancing our built environment. We strive to inspire the general public, government officials, and private sectors alike through a variety of organised events and initiatives that showcase the profound value and benefits of exceptional design.
Our trustees utilise their networks and initiatives to curate a diverse programme of activities aimed at fostering professional engagement and creating networking opportunities for our members and the broader construction industry.
Architects are expert problem solvers. Their wealth of experience and insights can elevate a project beyond the ordinary, helping clients realise their aspirations and visions. These trained designers excel in finding creative and practical ways to enhance your surroundings.
Becoming a registered architect requires a minimum of seven years of rigorous training, making them uniquely qualified in design and construction. The title 'Architect' is legally protected in both the Isle of Man and the UK, and only individuals registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB) can use it in business or practice.
Architects practicing in the Isle of Man must also register with the Office of Fair Trading, which maintains the Isle of Man Register of Architects. Membership in the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a mark of distinction for the profession. As Chartered Architects, the RIBA members are authorised to use the RIBA suffix.
Trustees
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Martyn Thomas
Chair
Martyn co-founded horncastle:thomas alongside Karen Horncastle in 2011. His architectural journey includes positions at shedkm architects in Liverpool and Hodder Associates in Manchester. As a mature student, Martyn pursued both part 1 and part 2 of his architectural studies at the University of Liverpool.
Martyn's passion lies in conservation-focused projects, where he relishes the challenge of enhancing energy efficiency through the use of historically appropriate materials. His expertise also extends to the art of reimagining and repurposing redundant buildings, often harmoniously integrating them with modern extensions—a distinctive specialty within his practice.
Martyn is a founding Trustee of SofA, a testament to his dedication to the architectural community and its continued growth and development.
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Andrew Traynor
Treasurer
Andrew obtained his architectural qualification in 2011 and has since practised as an RIBA Chartered Architect in both the UK and the Isle of Man, gaining valuable experience with firms including Glenn Howells Architects and horncastle:thomas.
A founding Trustee of SofA, Andrew has been an integral part of the architectural community.
Andrew has recently joined the Isle of Man Ambulance Service, although he continues to stay involved and engaged with the Island's built environment.
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Mona Devereau
Secretary
Mona trained as an architect in the UAE before moving to Liverpool in 2007, working at firms including Austin Smith Lord and Unit3 Design Studio. Before relocating to the Isle of Man in 2020, Mona played a pivotal role at the RIBA, leading CPD Programmes and spearheading the creation of the RIBA Academy—an accessible Learning Management System.
She's an active member of the architectural community, serving on the Liverpool Architectural Society council and co-founding the Liverpool Young Architects initiative.
Currently, as the Assistant Programme Manager for Construction at University College Isle of Man, she contributes to the management and delivery of the construction curriculum with a particular emphasis on teaching sustainability topics within the construction industry.
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Andrew Bentley
Trustee
Andrew Bentley embarked on his architectural journey, completing his architectural training at Leeds Beckett University in 1995, and practising as a qualified architect since 2004.
Andrew gained valuable experience working at Ashley Pettit Architects and established his own practice, Andrew Bentley Architects. Recently, Andrew has brought his expertise to Ellis Brown Architects.
Beyond his architectural pursuits, Andrew has been actively involved in local governance and advocacy. He served as the Chairman of the Isle of Man Green Party for five years, demonstrating his commitment to environmental sustainability and community welfare. He is also a Councillor for the Douglas Borough Council.
Andrew is a founding Trustee of the Isle of Man Society of Architects since 2013.
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Voirrey Samson
Trustee
Manx born Voirrey completed her architectural training at Liverpool John Moores University.
After working in Liverpool for a number of years she returned to the island to work as project architect with Ellis Brown Associates on the refurbishment of the Villa Marina and Gaiety arcade and the rebuild of the Colonade.
In 2010 She joined her husband Sam working as Samson Designs Ltd.
The practice continues to work on a wide range of projects including Brightlife, Cathedral Isle of Man and the Manxonia/Kella building in PSM as well as many private commissions.
