DJI Architecture snaps up Allan Corfield group out of liquidation

Founded in Dunfermline in 2009, ACA is a specialist in the self‑build and custom‑build sector, while ACS was established in 2020 to provide structural engineering services to ACA’s clients and other external customers using modern methods of construction.

The practice has supported more than 550 self‑build projects across the UK over the past 15 years and has been a prominent voice in the sector. Together, the businesses employ 14 staff, 10 at ACA and four at ACS. Following the liquidations, all employees were made redundant.

DJI Architecture Ltd, a company owned by members of the practice management team, has subsequently offered employment to a number of former ACA employees, helping to “retain key skills and experience within the business”.

Shona Campbell of Henderson Loggie, who was appointed liquidator, said the sale will “ensure continuity for clients and the retention of expertise within the practice”.

“Allan Corfield Architects has built a strong reputation in the self‑build sector over many years,” Shona said. “Like many practices across the architecture and construction sector, the companies have faced a combination of rising costs and challenging trading conditions.”

Shona added: “Our immediate priority as liquidator is to protect the position of the companies, their staff and creditors. By negotiating the sale to DJI Architecture Ltd, we have secured continuity for clients and protected the future of ongoing projects, while retaining specialist knowledge within the new ownership structure.”

The business and assets have been acquired from the liquidator by DJI Architecture Ltd, initially trading as Allan Corfield Architects. The purchase out of liquidation has been led by ACA’s existing senior management team of David MacFarlane, Iga Panczyna and Jenny Chandela, working alongside Roderick (Rod) J McMillan, a professional non-executive director and investor who becomes non-executive chair of the new business.

Rod McMillan said: “The last few weeks have been exceptionally difficult, but this is now a genuinely positive new beginning for a well-established local, Scottish as well as UK-wide architectural practice. We have preserved a strong and profitable underlying business, a talented and committed team, excellent client relationships and a substantial workload.”

David MacFarlane added: “Our immediate priorities are continuity for our clients and stability for our team. We have an excellent group of people, a strong portfolio of live work and a great deal to look forward to. We now have the opportunity to build on everything that was good about ACA while creating a stronger, more collaborative and well-managed business for the future.”

The company will initially continue trading as Allan Corfield Architects while its longer-term strategy and brand are developed.

Allan Corfield said: “Although it has been a very difficult and challenging time, it has been a pleasure to work with so many amazing clients and watch our talented team create stunning homes across the length and breadth of the UK. I would like to thank every client, member of staff and consultant who has been on this journey. I wish the new team the success that they deserve moving forward.”