Foundations in 1926
The practice’s story began in 1926, when James Mollinson Wilson, a pioneering Scottish architect, opened his first office in London after relocation from the Middle East. He was soon joined in partnership by Harold Clayforth Mason.
In 1912, Wilson undertook his apprenticeship under Sir Edwin Landseer Lutyens in India, an experience that proved a profound influence and inspiration on his architectural work.
At the end of the First World War, Wilson joined an overseas Public Works Department and became its director in 1920, when Harold Mason was appointed assistant government architect under him.
At a time when the world was undergoing rapid change, Wilson’s work became internationally recognised as he helped shape new landscapes with bold and ambitious designs. His early works included a landmark railway station, an airport and the delivery of an entire town to serve growing industries. These formative projects established a reputation for vision, technical excellence and cultural sensitivity that remains embedded in the Wilson Mason of today.
Bringing international connections to the UK
As Wilson’s global reputation grew, the practice began forging relationships with leading names in the financial, pharmaceutical and energy sectors.
Early commissions for GlaxoSmithKline, HSBC and BP cemented long-lasting partnerships that shaped our trajectory for decades.
Growth through technical expertise
From its earliest days, Wilson Mason was trusted with design challenges that demanded precision, adaptability and deep technical understanding. This strength soon led to significant commissions in science, research and laboratory facilities – sectors demanding the highest standards of precision, functionality and adaptability.
Over time, this expertise grew into a specialism in world-class research laboratories, a field where Wilson Mason continues to lead today. By working in close partnership with universities, hospitals and healthcare providers, we have helped create environments that advance knowledge, support innovation and improve lives.
100 years of architectural intention
While the practice’s origins were international, its roots are firmly embedded in the UK. With studios in London and the North, Wilson Mason has become a trusted partner for organisations across the advanced manufacturing, education, healthcare, science and research, retail and workplace sectors.
What unites these diverse projects is a single philosophy: architecture with intention. Every building is crafted not only to function but to inspire, elevate the human experience and to contribute meaningfully to its context. This approach has earned Wilson Mason recognition in some of the most demanding environments, where innovation and sustainability are non-negotiable.
Award-winning design legacy
Looking forward
With 40 designers in London and the North, today Wilson Mason is a modern architecture practice shaped by a century of design heritage. We continue to work alongside world-leading organisations, solving complex challenges and creating environments where people can thrive.
Whether in research laboratories, university campuses, hospitals, workplaces or retail destinations, our goal is to design spaces that drive progress, foster collaboration and stand the test of time.
As we look to the next 100 years, we remain rooted in the values that defined our beginnings; purposeful design, long-term relationships and the belief that architecture has the power to shape not just buildings but entire communities.