A NORTH-EAST architect says it has made history after becoming the first UK practice to set up in Mongolia.

Gradon Architecture is now operating a new design studio in the country’s capital Ulan Bator, and has taken on three Mongolian staff in the expansion.

The site is the company’s first overseas practice, helping it increase its international business from zero to 25 per cent of total turnover in two years.

The venture will be managed by Tanja Smith, who has been promoted to the role of technical director and moved to the country to oversee its growth.

Ms Smith, who spoke to The Northern Echo about her Mongolian adventure last year, said: “We’re delighted Gradon has become the first UK architect practice to open for business in Mongolia.

“In many ways, the country is as modern as the UK, with an enthusiasm for forward-thinking and a desire for change.

“However, as one of the coldest and most polluted places to live on earth, Mongolia and especially its capital Ulan Bator, continues to face significant environmental challenges.

“By being here and bringing UK standards of best practice to the country, we hope we can inspire further environmental awareness across the country.”

The company first visited Mongolia in January 2011.

Receiving support from the UK Trade and Investment and the British Embassy in Mongolia, it has since completed a number of design projects in Mongolia from its North-East base, including proposals for energy-efficient homes in Ulan Bator.

Supplementing its overseas growth, the company, based in Ryton, near Gateshead, has taken on two members of staff in the UK, taking its workforce to 17.

Liam Nelis has joined to work on a commercial, retail and residential project in Derry, Northern Ireland, with architect Scott Savin strengthening its residential and urban design team.