INTERVIEW: Lynn Lavenac, Greenway Associates
Greenway Associates are delighted to welcome Lynn Lavenac to our team as a Senior Quantity Surveyor. Lynn is originally from France but now resides in the UK. She holds qualifications in Civil Engineering and Quantity Surveying. We appreciate her taking the time to share some insights into her background and experiences.
GA: Welcome Lynn! You’re originally from France. How does Quantity Surveying differ between the UK and France?
Lynn: Well, in France, the responsibilities typically associated with a QS often fall within the architect’s scope, or if the project scale is significant, then a specialised consulting firm will likely be appointed. Generally speaking though, it is the architects who are often responsible for cost estimation, project budgeting, and quantity take-offs in France. You could say, that it’s quite a lot of work to be an architect in France! My Civil Engineering qualifications acquired in France have given me a comprehensive understanding of construction economics, while my QS qualifications obtained in the UK have equipped me to navigate the legal frameworks, contracts, and industry practices specific to the UK.
GA: Do you have a particular specialism?
Lynn: In general, I would say my specialism lies in fit-out, as I have a keen eye for detail and like to understand the intricacies involved in a project. However in my previous role, I led the stone department for a high-end hospitality contractor in London. So I now also have an expertise in joinery and natural stone work.
GA: Why the move to Greenway Associates from the supply side?
Lynn: As I mentioned, in my previous role, I lead the stone department for a high-end hospitality contractor in London. I oversaw the procurement and installation of joinery and marble elements for notable Hospitality projects such as The Wolseley City (sister to the much loved Piccadilly original) and Gaia - a beautifully elegant Greek-Mediterranean restaurant in Mayfair that’s already making headlines! I’m very grateful for the fantastic hands-on experience in stone that my previous role gave me. However, having a background in Civil Engineering and Quantity Surveying, I’ve joined Greenway Associates to apply my wider skill set in different applications and to keep learning! I am particularly excited about the prospect of contributing to projects from concept to completion.
Seafood Display at Gaia
GA: According to a recent RICS Insight report, women represented just 18% of their members. Do you think the QS industry is welcoming to women?
Lynn: Yes it is true that there is a low representation of women in the QS ranks. I have noticed initiatives from RICS, various industry bodies and private companies to address inclusivity, but sometimes it can be workplace culture that hinders progress. I’m happy to report that I’ve been warmly welcomed by the Greenway Associates team and I am happy to be added to the ranks!
GA: What appealed to you about Greenway Associates and which of our projects are you most looking forward to working on?
Lynne: Greenway Associates is reputable, particularly in the Hospitality industry. What has really appealed to me, is the diverse portfolio of projects that GA are involved with - including retail, residential, cultural and of course, hospitality projects. GA has already put me to work on the refurbishment of a luxury hotel in Mayfair and I’m enjoying being totally absorbed in the process.
GA: Favourite space in London?
Lynn: It might sound a bit predictable as a Frenchie in London, but I really do love The Barbican Centre. I love the Brutalist architecture, the raw concrete exterior and strong geometric shapes. The elevated gardens and walkways in the interior are so inspiring, as are the arts and cultural events!
Lynn doing what she loves most - travelling! This one’s from French Polynesia.
GA: Favourite pastime?
Lynn: Traveling. Exploring new landscapes and different cultures truly captivates me and although it’s a bit clichéd - the journey itself is truly part of the adventure! My last big trip was to Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea in French Polynesia and it was simply incredible.