Stephen McCusker RIBA RIAS FHEA is an Architect and Professional Skills Lead at the Manchester School of Architecture, co-ordinating Professional Studies, Climate Change, Technology, Ethical Practice and Biodiversity specialisms across the school, considering the interface between academic theory and industry practice.
Appointed part-time as a Senior Lecturer he has been a year leader, taught in architecture undergraduate/masters and contributed to Landscape courses alongside writing and leading on the validation and establishment of the PGCert in Contemporary Practice (RIBA Part 3).
He combines his academic interests with his ongoing, external practise delivering value-led and community-centric development, building on his 18 years as an Architect-Director at Loop Systems - an award-winning, Manchester-based co-operative. Loop operated as a co-operative for 12 years until it became part of the Place Capital Group in 2021 where it continues to contribute to works of social value across the UK.
Stephen’s work and research largely focuses on co-operation, the co-operative movement and the re-appropriation of existing buildings for the social purposes or community-led economies.
His professional work includes being a board member of the Architects Registration Board and a member of RIBA NW regional council where he co-chairs practice and education.
As an experienced ARB prescribed examiner, Part 3 examiner, leader and teacher of Architecture & Design Thinking, Stephen continues to bringing his professional, academic and leadership expertise to the role; building on his knowledge of a broad range of project types ranging from furniture to museums and responsible material selection.