UK practice Zaha Hadid Architects has become an employee-owned studio in response to a growing demand for a "more accessible and egalitarian" profession.
The studio, which was founded in 1980 by the late British-Iraqi architect Zaha Hadid, has transferred ownership after establishing an employee benefit trust (EBT).
Zaha Hadid Architects said that the trust, which has no external shareholders, will allow it to reinvest all of its profits back into its studio.
Employee ownership gives all staff "a voice"
"We can now reinvest all profits back into the business, into our people, equipment and facilities to the benefit all our employees; allowing us to prioritise our work with visionary clients, communities and industry experts around the world to advance the quality of the built environment," the studio said in its announcement. Zaha Hadid Architects added that its shift from a hierarchical model also reflected a new generation of architects' desire for a more equitable architecture sector.
Zaha Hadid Architects (above) has become an employee-owned studio
"Younger generations of architects are demanding our profession become more accessible and egalitarian," the studio added.
"Supported by independent and transparent organizational systems and structures, employee ownership of ZHA will cultivate the skills and diversity that drives our decision-making and give every member of our team a voice in shaping our future."
Studio will...