A SMALL Newcastle-based architecture firm has seen its turnover almost double in the past year after winning work on a number of large contracts.

Plus Three Architecture was established in 2008 by Simon Dunstan, who was born near the Derwent Valley, and Matthew Margetts, from York, who met while working for London-based practice RHWL.

The pair decided to go into businesses together after spotting a gap in the market for smaller firms of architects in the North East and have since become involved in a number of projects that would usually be associated with larger practices.

These include a commission from South Tyneside Council to design its £5m Green Incubator project in South Shields, which will see the creation of 40 business units for entrepreneurs looking to start-up in the green energy sector.

Its biggest contract to date is the design of a £31m leisure and community development that will reshape Redcar’s town centre and will provide residents with a new six-lane swimming pool, small business hub, community centre and a dance hall.

As a result of securing this long-term work, Plus Three has been able to almost double its turnover this year to £750,000, as well as double its workforce from five to 10.

Although the company expects less growth this year, it is confident it can attract more work as a result of its involvement in such high-profile community schemes.

Managing director Simon Dunstan said: “There’s no denying that the recession has brought tough times for many businesses, not least start-ups.

“But such an age of austerity has also brought with it the opportunity to really think creatively and find a way to make a company work despite the challenges.

“We pride ourselves on our ability to respond quickly and to work collaboratively with clients, working so closely with them that we’re considered as an in-house resource rather than an external consultant..”

Other current projects include the design of a £10.5m office development for BT at Harton Staithes, South Shields, which will create up to 280 new jobs when it is completed over the coming weeks.

Dunston added: “It is great that we have been able to secure work that has kept us busy over two to three-year periods. However, it is a fact that there is a lack of work out there, with the Government cuts really starting to take effect.

“With this in mind, I would be more than happy if we are able to maintain our current position by next year.”