Business Details
46 Years
experience
Chartered Architects in London | John Simpson Architects
Established in 1980, John Simpson Architects has built a reputation for excellence in classical and traditional architecture, urbanism, and interior design. Our practice combines timeless design principles with modern technology to create spaces that are both functional and aesthetically enduring. With projects spanning the UK, Europe, and the USA, we specialise in public, educational, commercial, and residential buildings, as well as large-scale masterplans in sensitive urban and greenfield locations. Our work is rooted in the belief that architecture is a public art, shaping streets, squares, and civic spaces through a language of design accessible to all. As members of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the International Network for Traditional Building, Architecture and Urbanism (INTBAU), we advocate for sustainable, walkable communities and have pioneered urban design codes long before they became government policy.Our portfolio includes iconic projects such as the Kings Gallery at Buckingham Palace, the Walsh Family Hall at the University of Notre Dame, and the masterplan for Poundbury. We are committed to innovation within tradition, ensuring our designs meet contemporary needs while respecting historical context. Our teams expertise extends to conservation, ecological architecture, and design for disabled individuals, reflecting a holistic approach to client needs. Awards and accolades, including the Arthur Ross Award and multiple RIBA recognitions, underscore our dedication to excellence. We operate from our London headquarters, delivering projects globally with a focus on quality, craftsmanship, and enduring value.
Services
Architecture
Urban Design
Interior Design
Conservation & Restoration
Furniture Design
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- Pioneers of urban design codes influencing UK government policy since the 1990s
- Award-winning expertise in classical architecture with global recognition
- Specialists in conservation and adaptive reuse of historic buildings
- Proven track record in large-scale masterplans for sustainable communities
- Recipient of prestigious accolades including the Arthur Ross Award and RIBA Awards
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
- INTBAU: International Network for Traditional Building, Architecture and Urbanism
Services
Architecture
We deliver full architectural services for public, educational, commercial, and residential projects. Our approach combines classical principles with modern technology to create enduring, context-sensitive buildings. Clients benefit from our expertise in listed building consents, conservation, and sustainable design.
Urban Design
Specialising in masterplans for new settlements and urban extensions, we create walkable, mixed-use communities. Our pioneering design codes influence UK policy, focusing on sustainable, human-scaled environments that respect historical context and enhance public spaces.
Interior Design
Our interior design services range from royal palaces to private residences, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary functionality. Projects include bespoke furniture, lighting, and spatial layouts that maintain architectural harmony while meeting modern needs.
Conservation & Restoration
We specialise in preserving historic buildings through meticulous restoration and adaptive reuse. Our work on Grade I and II listed structures, such as Buckingham Palace and Palazzo Grimani, demonstrates technical precision and deep respect for original architectural intent.
Furniture Design
We create bespoke furniture pieces that complement our architectural projects. From classical seating to modern interpretations of historical styles, our designs ensure cohesive aesthetics across buildings, interiors, and decorative elements.
People
John Simpson
Principal of Practice
Professor John Simpson is a leading figure in classical architecture, known for projects like the Kings Gallery at Buckingham Palace. He pioneered sustainable urban design codes and teaches at the University of Buckingham and Cambridge University.
Joanna Wachowiak
Director
Joanna Wachowiak leads major projects including the Defence and National Rehabilitation Centre. With expertise in conservation and urban masterplans, she has been instrumental in award-winning developments at Kensington Palace and Eton College.
Tiffany Abernathy
Director of US Projects
Tiffany Abernathy oversees US projects, including the Walsh Family Hall at the University of Notre Dame. Her work focuses on classical education facilities and high-profile residential conversions in New York and Oxford.
Victoria Lee
Associate Director
Victoria Lee manages large-scale projects like the Royal College of Music courtyard redevelopment. She specialises in contract administration and has contributed to award-winning educational and medical facilities.
Questions
What architectural styles does John Simpson Architects specialise in?
We specialise in classical and traditional architecture, adapting historical principles to modern needs while ensuring timeless aesthetic and functional value.
Do you work on international projects?
Yes, our portfolio includes projects in the UK, Europe, and the USA, including the University of Notre Dame campus in Indiana and urban developments in France.
What accreditations does the practice hold?
We are members of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the International Network for Traditional Building, Architecture and Urbanism (INTBAU).
Can you handle conservation of historic buildings?
Yes, we have extensive experience in conservation and restoration, including Grade I Listed buildings like Buckingham Palace and Palazzo Grimani in Venice.
How do you approach urban design?
We create walkable, mixed-use communities using pioneering design codes that prioritise sustainability, human-scaled environments, and public space quality.
