Business Details
36 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design London
Established in 1990, S H Sophie Hicks has built a reputation for delivering meticulously crafted architectural solutions that blend client-centric design with artistic innovation. Our practice was founded on the principle that successful architecture stems from deep listening and attention to detail, a philosophy that continues to guide our work across residential, fashion retail, and cultural projects. With decades of experience translating brand identities into architectural form, we have designed flagship stores for global fashion houses and contemporary residences in London's conservation areas.Our team's expertise extends to curating museum exhibitions, reflecting our commitment to bridging architecture and art. Recognised with prestigious awards including the London RIBA Award 2019, we combine technical excellence with creative vision to create spaces that respect heritage while embracing modernity. Our longevity in the industry and long-standing collaborations with leading cultural institutions underscore our position as trusted architectural specialists.
Services
Residential Architecture
Fashion Retail Design
Museum Exhibitions
Concept Development
New Build Houses
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years' experience in architectural design since 1990
- Our team has created over 100 international fashion retail spaces
- We specialise in contemporary design within London's conservation areas
- Winner of the London RIBA Award 2019 for architectural excellence
- Our practice maintains longstanding collaborations with major cultural institutions
Services
Residential Architecture
Specialist contemporary residential design within London's conservation areas. Our approach balances modern living requirements with historical context, creating award-winning homes that respect architectural heritage while incorporating innovative spatial solutions. Projects include the Royal Academy-featured House Between Two Lakes.
Fashion Retail Design
Brand identity translation into architectural form for luxury fashion sector. We develop signature retail concepts for global brands like Acne Studios and Alaia, creating cohesive spatial narratives that reflect brand ethos through material selection and innovative layouts.
Museum Exhibitions
Curatorial architectural solutions for art exhibitions including Royal Academy shows. Our expertise extends to spatial planning for major collections, ensuring optimal presentation of artworks while creating immersive visitor experiences that enhance the exhibition narrative.
New Build Houses
Design and delivery of modern residences in central London's protected areas. We specialise in obtaining planning permission for innovative designs that complement historic surroundings, with completed projects in Regent Square and Earl's Court Square demonstrating our technical and creative capabilities.
Concept Development
Architectural concept creation based on brand identity analysis. Our methodology establishes core design principles at project inception, ensuring consistent application throughout the architectural process for both commercial and residential developments.
People
Sophie Hicks
Founder & Principal Architect
Architect and former AA student with 30+ years' experience, specialising in fashion retail and residential design. Recipient of the London RIBA Award 2019, she has designed flagship stores for major fashion houses and contemporary homes in London's conservation areas.
Tom Hopes
Associate Architect
Experienced architect working on residential and commercial projects since joining the practice. Collaborates on design development and project delivery, contributing to award-winning schemes in London's sensitive urban environments.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialise in?
We specialise in contemporary design that respects historical context, particularly in London's conservation areas. Our work combines modern aesthetics with traditional settings.
Do you work internationally?
Yes, we've completed projects in Seoul, Shanghai, New York, Paris and Tokyo, including flagship stores for global fashion brands and private residences.
How do you approach fashion retail design?
We translate brand identities into architectural form through material selection, spatial planning and signature design elements that reflect each brand's unique character.
Can you assist with conservation area projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience obtaining planning permission for contemporary designs in London's protected areas, balancing innovation with heritage considerations.
What cultural projects have you worked on?
We've designed major museum exhibitions including 'Sensation' at the Royal Academy and Picasso retrospectives, applying our architectural expertise to curatorial spatial planning.
