Our people

The Smiles of dhp.

A close-knit, interdisciplinary team. The people who'll design, manage and care for your building — and the partners who lead the practice.

Jennifer Melis

Partner — Chartered Building Surveyor

Chartered Building Surveyor at dhp since 2006, with over 20 years' experience.
Leads a team delivering projects across the commercial and education sectors.
Specialises in innovative school redevelopments focused on sustainable, inspiring learning environments.

In my personal life, I’m a proud mum to two wonderful girls. I find joy in baking — especially when it means sharing treats with loved ones — and I cherish any time spent with family and friends, whether it’s a quiet afternoon together or a lively gathering.

Andrew Etherington

Partner — Chartered Building Surveyor

Chartered Building Surveyor and Partner with expertise in strategy, project delivery and client advice.
Manages premises, procurement and practice finances.
Involved in software development and business operations.

In my spare time, I find joy in travelling, reading, rowing, swimming, and spending time in the kitchen — both cooking and enjoying good food. Life is always full of energy thanks to my ten-year-old daughter, who keeps me on my toes and brings so much happiness to my days.

Matt Sane

Equity Partner

Extensive construction design experience in a multidisciplinary practice since age 18.
Leads operational management, overseeing health and safety, HR and finance for smooth running of the practice.

I am a loving husband and dad to a beautiful daughter. I love spending time with friends, often hanging out at the local pub. I’m also really passionate about the classic car scene and enjoy getting my hands dirty.

Lee Mason

Salaried Partner

25 years of experience in the construction industry.
Has designed and managed some of dhp's most complex projects.
Maintains strong, long-standing relationships with key clients.

I’m an active person who loves staying on the move. In my spare time, you’ll often find me playing football or golf — but what I value most is spending quality time with my family. Those moments mean the world to me.

Andrew Page

Managing Partner — Chartered Building Surveyor

Chartered Building Surveyor since 1987, with nearly 40 years' experience.
Has delivered projects across education, commercial, local authority, research and large-scale residential sectors.

I’m married with a daughter, and family means the world to me. In my free time I stay active playing cricket and golf, enjoy the occasional ski trip, and cheer on Arsenal. I’m also a passionate DIYer, always ready to help with projects at home or for family.

Chris Self

Project Manager

40+ years' experience in surveying, architecture and project delivery.
Has led major projects across a variety of sectors.
MRICS-qualified, with expertise in design coordination and compliance.

Happily married for 37 years with two grown-up children. Alice, a solicitor, is currently working in Australia, while Matt, a land surveyor, is soon off backpacking around the Far East. A proud Crystal Palace supporter through and through.

Ben Hearsum

Senior Building Surveyor & Project Manager

Extensive experience leading projects from concept design to handover and occupancy.
Strong background in delivering professional services.
Developed expertise through roles at dhp and other leading firms.

I’m a proud father to two energetic children, aged 9 and 6, and help coach their local rugby and football teams. I stay active by training regularly, running 5k parkruns, and playing rugby for Cranleigh RFC. I also founded the CALM Crusaders — a charity rugby team that plays annually to raise funds and awareness for male mental health.

Jacob Dobson

Senior Architectural Technologist

Over 9 years of industry experience, with expertise spanning all project stages — from feasibility to handover.
Skilled in client and stakeholder engagement, planning submissions, technical detailing and building surveying.
Proficient in Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp and Photoshop.

I’m an active and curious person who loves exploring new places — whether it’s a hidden gem close to home or an adventure halfway across the world. I cherish sharing these experiences with my partner, friends and family.

Craig Beardall

Associate Partner — Electrical Engineering

10+ years across luxury retail, commercial and high-end residential projects.
Skilled in electrical design, specifications and project management from concept to construction.
Interior design background; currently leads dhp's electrical division.

Outside of work, I love spending time with my dog, Darcy. I enjoy playing tennis with my family, sharing meals out, and making special memories on holidays with my partner. I’m also a big fan of DIY projects and can often be found tackling jobs around the house — with varying degrees of success, but always plenty of enthusiasm!

Jack Allen

Associate Partner — Mechanical Engineering

Mechanical Engineer at dhp for 10 years, experienced across multiple sectors including education and residential.
Has worked through all RIBA stages as a Principal Designer and Project Manager.
Has managed projects up to £10 million in value.

Outside of work, most of my time is joyfully spent chasing after my two young children — whether it’s at farms, trampoline parks or soft-play centres. When I do find a bit of free time, you’ll often find me on the golf course or playing cricket for my local team.

Eleni Thomasos

Office Manager & Secretary

Over 20 years of administrative support, assisting project managers and staff across all departments.
Responsible for office management tasks including banking, invoicing, tender analysis and maintaining supplies.
Primary contact for the main office, overseeing document uploads and ensuring smooth day-to-day operations.

I’m a proud mum of two and cherish quality time with my family — whether it’s days out exploring, weekends away, or simply enjoying the outdoors together on long walks or time spent at the beach.

Chaminda Abayawardana

Associate Partner — Architecture

Has led £20M+ architectural projects across education, residential and commercial sectors.
Skilled in CAD/BIM, sustainability and compliance.
Manages teams and client relationships, delivering cost-effective solutions.

At home, I’m a proud father of two who treasures every moment spent with family. I enjoy staying active by going to the gym and have even taught myself to play the piano. I’m also a passionate fan of Formula One and cricket, always keeping up with the latest events.

Adam Smith

Associate Partner — Building Surveying

Building Surveyor with 10+ years' experience managing projects up to £2 million across residential, commercial and specialist sectors.
Skilled in defect diagnosis, project and contract management, compliance, refurbishment design and leasehold consultancy.
Experienced working with diverse clients, delivering technically sound and customer-focused solutions.

Outside of work, I love spending time outdoors — whether hiking, taking my daughter on an adventure, teaching Cubs, or paddleboarding. I run a local Cub Scout pack, sharing my passion for adventure with young minds. My favourite things are my daughter Mya, my Cavapoo Charlie, good food and sport. Life’s best with laughter, muddy boots and great company.

Have a building in mind?

Tell us what you're planning. From first sketch to final handover, our interdisciplinary team will take care of it.