Take cover

One of the grand names of British architecture and design from the 80s until now is shielding itself from the cold winds of recession - office research and design specialists DEGW are to become part of mega-cost consultants David Langdon, though chairman Despina Katsikakis tells Building Design it will continue to trade under its own name.

DEGW was formed by Frank (now Sir) Duffy, Peter Eley (who died last year) , Luigi Giffone (now designing classy holiday apartments in Calabria) and John Worthington (now largely working in academia). Last year BBC Worldwide used DEGW for its makeover of the lower floors of the Media Centre on the White City site.