Architects Hit Hard by Job Losses With its economy expected to shrink nearly 3 percent this year, Britain is facing the most severe recession in the developed world. And with troubled banks unwilling to lend, building projects are at a standstill and architects are hurting. “Every firm, regardless of size, is affected,” says John McAslan, chairman of London-based John McAslan & Partners, whose 100-person practice downsized by about 10 percent over the past six months. Image courtesy Richard Rogers Leadenhall Building in London, by Richard Rogers. Related Links: Global Report: Brazil Global Report: China Global Report: Germany Global Report: India