Business Details
Award-Winning Chartered Architects in Durham
Established over four decades ago, Howarth Litchfield stands as a distinguished Chartered Architecture Practice renowned for delivering exceptional solutions across Architecture, Interior Design, Building Surveying, Conservation, and Sustainability. Our multidisciplinary approach ensures tailored project delivery, with each scheme directly overseen by a Director. With a portfolio spanning diverse sectors including education, heritage, and commercial developments, we combine technical expertise with creative vision to realise client aspirations. Our commitment to sustainability is evidenced through carbon-reduction strategies embedded in every project. Recognised through numerous industry awards, we maintain long-standing client relationships built on trust, transparency, and technical excellence.Our team actively engages with clients throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring clear communication and meticulous attention to detail. As industry leaders, we continually invest in staff development and cutting-edge technologies to maintain our position at the forefront of architectural innovation. Our work with prestigious institutions and public sector organisations demonstrates our ability to deliver complex projects to the highest standards. With offices strategically located across the UK, we combine national reach with local knowledge to serve our clients effectively. Our dedication to quality is reflected in repeat commissions and positive testimonials from satisfied clients across multiple sectors.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Building Surveying
Conservation
Sustainability
Heritage
Project Management
Design Consultancy
Urban Regeneration
Education Sector
Highlights and features
- 40+ years' experience in architectural design and delivery
- Multi-disciplinary team of chartered professionals across all disciplines
- Director-led approach for all projects regardless of scale
- Proven track record in heritage conservation and sustainability
- Award-winning practice with nationally recognised design expertise
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
What people say
Exceptional attention to detail
Creative design solutions
Technical expertise
Client-focused approach
Award-winning results
Services
Architecture
Our architectural services combine creative vision with technical expertise to deliver innovative solutions tailored to client requirements. We specialise in new build projects, renovations, and complex urban regeneration schemes across multiple sectors. With a focus on functionality and aesthetics, our designs consistently exceed client expectations while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards.
Interior Design
We create inspiring interior environments that balance form and function across commercial, residential, and hospitality sectors. Our approach prioritises user experience while maintaining architectural integrity. From concept development to final detailing, our team delivers cohesive interior solutions that reflect brand identity and enhance spatial functionality through innovative material selection and space planning.
Building Surveying
Our chartered building surveyors provide comprehensive property assessments, condition reports, and technical advice for commercial and residential properties. We specialise in defect analysis, dilapidations, and project monitoring services. With extensive expertise in building pathology, we offer practical solutions for property maintenance, refurbishment, and compliance with current regulations.
Conservation
Specialist conservation services for historic buildings and listed structures, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. We work closely with heritage bodies to ensure sensitive restoration and adaptive reuse of historic assets. Our team has extensive experience in preserving architectural heritage while meeting contemporary usage requirements through careful material selection and construction methodologies.
Sustainability
Integrated sustainability strategies embedded throughout the design process to achieve environmental performance targets. We provide energy modelling, carbon footprint analysis, and BREEAM assessments for new and existing buildings. Our approach focuses on passive design principles and renewable technologies to create energy-efficient buildings that reduce operational costs and environmental impact.
People
Richard Metcalfe
Bursar and Clerk to the Governors
MA FBIFM qualified professional with extensive experience in educational sector projects. Demonstrated expertise in managing complex building programmes for prestigious institutions. Proven track record in delivering high-quality educational facilities that meet evolving institutional needs while maintaining operational continuity.
Chris Randall
Director New Developments
Leading architectural projects for Harris Federation with particular focus on educational infrastructure. Specialises in translating complex design requirements into practical solutions. Recognised for exceptional client communication skills and ability to coordinate multidisciplinary design teams effectively while maintaining strict adherence to project timelines and budgets.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in full architectural design services including new build projects, renovations, and urban regeneration schemes across education, heritage, commercial, and residential sectors.
Do you work on listed buildings and heritage projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience in heritage conservation and listed building projects, with specialist expertise in sensitive restoration and adaptive reuse of historic structures.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?
We embed sustainability throughout the design process using passive design principles, energy modelling, and renewable technologies to create environmentally responsible buildings that meet BREEAM standards.
What is your approach to project management?
Each project is director-led with dedicated team oversight, ensuring clear communication, strict budget control, and adherence to timelines through our proven project delivery methodology.
Can you handle complex educational infrastructure projects?
Yes, we have significant expertise in educational sector projects, including new academies, school expansions, and university facilities, with proven experience in meeting specific sector requirements.
