Major recognition for architect

Jason Burnside, the son of Sam and Freda Burnside, of Montgomery Close, who has made his home for the past 11 years in Dubai, currently living at Arabian Ranches, was named the Middle East Architect of the Year in the 2012 Middle East Architect Awards.

A former pupil of Clooney Primary School, the Cathedral School, Templemore Intermediate and North West College, Jason studied architecture at Dundee University, graduating with first class honours.

His proud father, Sam, said his son had enjoyed art and calligraphy in his youth, but had not thought of architecture as a possible career until he had suggested considering becoming and architectural technician.

“I suggested he went for architectural technician and he went on a couple of building courses in the North West College and they sent him out on work experience with an architect here in the town and that was that,” Mr Burnshide said.

A period of dedicated and hard study followed and Jason secured work in London for about six years before being head hunted to the renowned GAJ, where he was recently made a partner of the firm.

The six-man panel judging the awards described Jason as “An architect with a strong body of work that displays a sensitive and elegant approach to architectural design, which is refreshing to see”.

Commenting on the award, Jason said: “Without a doubt this is one of my career highlights. I am really honoured to get this award and I am chuffed to bits. It is great to be recognised.”