As we approach the final days before Christmas, it's the turn of Chris Granger co-founder Crosby Granger Architects, to continue our 2025 popular festive spotlight—featuring regional businesspeople from across the north answering 12 quickfire questions.

1. What were you hoping to achieve by December when you sat down in January, and did you get there?

To strengthen our vision as the leading Heritage and Conservation Architects in the North of England — and lay the groundwork for an exciting new chapter of growth and innovation in 2026.

2. Tell us about three moments from 2025 that made you proud of your business.

Seeing our Whole Estate Plan for Higham Estate endorsed by the Lake District National Park (only their second ever), guiding Sheffield City Council through the complexities of Sheffield Castle, and bringing joy to the kids at Kirbie Kendal School — all moments that remind us why we do what we do..

3. What's been your biggest headache this year - supply chains, recruitment, costs, or something else entirely?

The rising cost of … well… everything.

4. If you had to describe 2025 using a Christmas film title, which would you choose?

Miracle on 34th Street — quiet competence, understated magic, making difficult things look effortless, and reminding others to believe in things they’ve forgotten: craft, heritage, community, and good design. That belief will fuel the exciting changes ahead.

5. What's your number one priority when the office reopens in January?

Picking up where we left off — and accelerating into a year of renewal, bold ideas, and big and small improvements that will help redefine our future.

6. Which business in the region has caught your eye this year - for all the right reasons?

M-Sport racing from Cockermouth show that the sky is the limit for any ambitious Cumbrian business.

7. Crystal ball time: what does 2026 hold for businesses like yours?

2026 is a line in the sand — a fresh start and a bold leap forward. Fresh changes are coming, and they’re exciting: new opportunities, new ways of working, and a renewed commitment to heritage and innovation. It’s a year to be brave, creative, and confident.

8. This Christmas, are you a "full production" household or a "feet up and telly" one?

We’re doing something different — chasing the sun for Christmas and New Year. A little renewal for the soul before a big year ahead for the business.

9. Crackers, Brussels sprouts, or pudding - which one best describes your year.

The Christmas Tree. Because our year has been a carefully-constructed structure that somehow manages to look elegant despite:

being overloaded with projects (baubles and tinsel)

has unexpected deadlines appear at the last minute (presents)

needing constant care (lights that mysteriously stop working)

and everyone standing around admiring it while you quietly know the whole thing is only upright thanks to one slightly dodgy screw.

10. Which business book, podcast or piece of advice has been your "surprise hit" of the year

It's a step back in time but David Brent does make me laugh — but he’s also a great reverse role model. If you do the opposite of him, you’re already halfway to success!

11. As you wind down for the festive break, what are you most looking forward to switching off from?

Emails and calendars… the unholy duo that haunts every professional’s waking hours

12. In twenty-five words or fewer, what would you say to your customers, teams and stakeholders as we head into 2026?

The world remains challenging, yet our dreams stay valid. Together —encouraging, collaborating, being creative, and always brave — we can keep pushing forward and make 2026 a year of real progress.