Business Details
29 Years
experience
Award-Winning London Architects for Residential & Commercial Projects
Higgs Alan is a full-service architectural practice with a global portfolio spanning over 220 completed commissions across Britain, Australia, and Europe. Our expertise encompasses new builds, full-scale reconstructions, and sensitive interventions in listed buildings, underpinned by a commitment to sustainable design principles. We specialise in harmonising historic structures with contemporary needs, prioritising natural light integration and spatial order while addressing client budgetary and programme constraints.Our team combines deep architectural theory knowledge with practical experience, delivering tailored solutions for private residences, arts institutions, and commercial projects. With a focus on long-term client relationships, we navigate complex planning processes and construction phases to achieve results that exceed expectations. Our work has been recognised in the Architects Journal and shortlisted for RIBA Awards, reflecting our dedication to design excellence and innovation.
Services
Architectural Design
Listed Building Renovation
Sustainable Architecture
Urban Design
Interior Architecture
Master Planning
Landscape Design
Project Management
Heritage Consultancy
Design Research
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We have over 220 completed commissions across Britain, Australia, and Europe
- Specialists in sustainable design and listed building renovations
- Client-focused approach prioritising budget and programme concerns
- Award-winning designs featured in the Architects Journal
- Experienced team with expertise in both private and institutional projects
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service creates bespoke solutions that harmonise modern functionality with historical context. We specialise in residential and commercial projects, focusing on spatial order, natural light integration, and material authenticity. Each design responds to site-specific conditions while addressing client aspirations and budget constraints.
Listed Building Renovation
Specialist renovation of protected structures maintains historical integrity while introducing contemporary functionality. Our approach preserves architectural character through meticulous material selection and construction techniques, ensuring compliance with conservation regulations while enhancing usability for modern occupants.
Sustainable Architecture
Sustainable design principles guide all projects, incorporating energy-efficient systems and environmentally responsible materials. We implement passive design strategies, renewable energy solutions, and lifecycle analysis to create buildings that minimise environmental impact while maximising occupant comfort.
Urban Design
Our urban design service creates cohesive masterplans that enhance public spaces and improve urban connectivity. We balance density with amenity, integrating architectural elements with landscape design to create vibrant, sustainable communities that respond to local context.
Interior Architecture
Interior architecture solutions focus on spatial flow, materiality, and lighting design. We create functional, aesthetically cohesive interiors that reflect client personality while maintaining architectural integrity, with particular expertise in historic building adaptations and contemporary residential schemes.
People
Alan Higgs
Founder & Principal Architect
Alan Higgs established the practice in 1997 after qualifying as a UK architect and completing a PhD in architectural design. With over 270 commissions, he specialises in residential architecture and heritage projects, blending historical sensitivity with modern functionality.
David Weston-Thomas
Senior Architect
David joined in 2003 bringing expertise in commercial and public sector projects. A Cambridge graduate with international experience, he focuses on residential commissions, combining spatial clarity with material innovation to create elegant, functional spaces.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential architecture, listed building renovations, sustainable design, and urban masterplanning. Our expertise extends to commercial fit-outs, interior architecture, and heritage consultancy across Britain, Europe, and Australia.
How do you approach listed building projects?
Our approach prioritises minimal intervention while enhancing usability. We work closely with conservation officers to preserve historical integrity, using traditional materials and techniques alongside discreet modern upgrades that meet contemporary living standards.
Can you handle international projects?
Yes, we've completed projects in Australia, France, Croatia, and Scotland. Our experience includes navigating different planning systems while maintaining design consistency, working with local partners to ensure cultural and regulatory compliance.
What sustainability principles guide your designs?
We integrate passive solar design, natural ventilation, and thermal mass principles. Our projects specify low-carbon materials, incorporate renewable energy systems, and prioritise longevity to create buildings that meet current needs without compromising future generations.
How do you manage complex planning applications?
With a 95% success rate in planning submissions, we employ strategic design approaches that address local authority concerns proactively. Our team prepares comprehensive documentation and visualisations to clearly communicate proposals to planning committees.
What is your design philosophy?
Our philosophy balances order and innovation, creating spaces that feel timeless yet contemporary. We prioritise spatial clarity, material honesty, and natural light manipulation to craft environments that enhance occupants' quality of life.
