Business Details
Expert Architectural Solutions in London
Graham Ford Architects is a London-based practice specialising in architectural design, planning strategy, and sustainable development. With over two decades of experience, we focus on delivering innovative solutions for commercial, residential, and heritage projects. Our expertise lies in securing planning permissions in sensitive areas such as conservation zones and green belts, while prioritising sustainability and client-centric design. We collaborate with schools, sports clubs, developers, and private clients to create functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces that meet modern environmental standards.Our team combines academic research with industry insights to address 21st-century challenges in architecture and urban planning. We are committed to transparency, technical excellence, and fostering social value through design that enhances user well-being and productivity. Our work includes landmark projects like The Roundhouse Theatre renovation and sustainable masterplans for educational institutions. We integrate risk mitigation, modular construction principles, and whole-system thinking to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
Services
Commercial Architecture
Residential Architecture
Basement Design
Feasibility Study
Interior Design
Sustainable Design
Listed Building Consent
Project Management
Highlights and features
- We have 20+ years of experience in securing planning permissions for complex projects
- Our team combines academic research with industry best practices
- We integrate climate risk mitigation at the concept stage of all projects
- We provide full project management from feasibility to construction completion
- Our SPECS methodology ensures repeatable, high-quality design outcomes
What people say
Robust, durable designs
Excellent project management
Innovative space solutions
Reliable and knowledgeable team
Stress-free building process
Services
Commercial Architecture
We specialise in commercial architecture projects including sports facilities, hospitality venues, and adaptive reuse of existing buildings. Our team provides strategic design solutions that balance functionality with aesthetic appeal while ensuring compliance with planning regulations. We focus on creating spaces that enhance business operations and user experience through innovative layouts, sustainable materials, and energy-efficient systems.
Residential Architecture
Our residential architecture services cover new builds, renovations, and listed building consents. We maximise property value through thoughtful space planning, natural light optimisation, and integration with outdoor environments. Specialising in basement developments and heritage restorations, we deliver tailored solutions that respect architectural context while meeting modern living standards and sustainability requirements.
Feasibility Study
We conduct comprehensive feasibility studies to assess project viability before design begins. This includes site analysis, regulatory compliance checks, budget forecasting, and risk assessment. Our strategic briefs help clients understand constraints and opportunities, ensuring informed decision-making that aligns with long-term goals while minimising costly changes during later project stages.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design approach integrates net-zero carbon strategies from initial concept stages. We focus on passive design principles, renewable energy systems, and low-embodied carbon materials. Services include EPC compliance, thermal performance analysis, and circular economy strategies to create buildings that reduce environmental impact while enhancing occupant health and operational efficiency.
Listed Building Consent
We specialise in navigating the complex process of obtaining listed building consent. Our expertise includes heritage assessments, sympathetic design adaptations, and collaboration with conservation officers. We balance preservation requirements with modern functionality needs, ensuring historically significant structures are preserved while meeting contemporary usage demands through technically sound, aesthetically appropriate solutions.
People
Graham Ford
Director
Graham Ford founded the practice after completing a PhD in sustainable architecture. With 20+ years' experience, he specialises in planning strategy for conservation areas and complex projects. He led renovations of The Roundhouse Theatre and Heals Estate office buildings, combining academic research with practical expertise in sustainable design and project management.
Simona Roggero
Associate
Simona Roggero brings extensive architectural experience to the team, working on both commercial and residential projects. She contributes technical expertise in sustainable design and construction detailing, supporting clients through all project phases from concept to completion while maintaining focus on quality and regulatory compliance.
Questions
What areas do you cover for architectural services?
We operate across London and the South East, with specific expertise in Hammersmith, Camden, Kensington & Chelsea, and Westminster. Our experience extends to both urban and rural projects throughout these regions.
Can you help with listed building renovations?
Yes, we specialise in listed building consents and heritage projects. Our team has extensive experience with historic structures including The Roundhouse Theatre and Heals Estate office buildings, balancing preservation requirements with modern functionality.
What sustainability features do you incorporate?
We integrate net-zero strategies from initial design stages, including passive solar design, thermal performance optimisation, renewable energy systems, and low-embodied carbon materials to create environmentally responsible buildings that exceed regulatory standards.
How do you handle complex planning applications?
We employ a strategic approach to planning, including early engagement with conservation officers, detailed impact assessments, and technical documentation. Our success rate in securing permissions for challenging projects in conservation areas demonstrates our expertise.
What project management services do you offer?
We provide full-cycle project management from feasibility studies through to construction completion. This includes budget control, contractor coordination, regulatory compliance, and quality assurance to ensure projects are delivered on time and to specification.
Can you assist with basement developments?
Yes, we have significant experience in basement design and construction. Our services include planning strategy, technical design, party wall negotiations, and construction management to create functional underground spaces that comply with all regulatory requirements.
