Business Details
26 Years
experience
Award-Winning London Architecture Practice
Established in 2000 by Oliver Barsoum and Rob Whitlock, we are a London-based architectural practice dedicated to creating thoughtful, context-driven designs. Our approach prioritises collaboration, with each project emerging from a process of research, client engagement, and site analysis. We specialise in residential, mixed-use, and housing schemes, balancing aesthetic beauty with functional precision. Sustainability is integral to our work, focusing on fabric-first solutions rather than technology-driven approaches. Our studio fosters a culture of open dialogue, where ideas are tested through physical models, sketches, and digital visualisations. With over two decades of experience, we guide projects from initial concept to completion, ensuring technical excellence and adherence to regulatory standards.Our portfolio reflects a commitment to enhancing urban environments through innovative design. We believe architecture should evolve from the unique circumstances of each site and client, resulting in spaces that adapt to everyday life. Our team combines technical expertise with creative vision, delivering projects that meet both practical and aspirational needs. Through continuous client engagement and meticulous attention to detail, we strive to exceed expectations in every scheme we develop.
Services
Residential Architecture
Mixed-Use Development
Housing Schemes
Sustainability Consultancy
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We follow a structured seven-stage RIBA-compliant design process
- Our sustainability approach prioritises fabric-first solutions
- We maintain direct client collaboration throughout project delivery
- Our team combines technical expertise with creative problem-solving
- We produce detailed construction documentation to prevent cost overruns
What people say
Exceptional attention to detail
Collaborative process
Sustainable expertise
Timely delivery
Creative solutions
Services
Residential Architecture
We create bespoke residential projects that respond to site-specific conditions and client aspirations. Our process integrates spatial innovation with technical precision, ensuring homes that are both beautiful and functional. From concept to completion, we manage all aspects of design and construction, delivering tailored solutions that enhance everyday living while maintaining energy efficiency.
Mixed-Use Development
Our mixed-use schemes combine residential, commercial, and community spaces to create vibrant urban environments. We balance diverse functional requirements with architectural coherence, ensuring developments that contribute positively to their surroundings. Through rigorous analysis and stakeholder engagement, we deliver projects that meet economic, social, and environmental objectives.
Sustainability Consultancy
We integrate sustainability from the earliest design stages, focusing on passive strategies to reduce energy consumption. Our approach prioritises material selection, thermal performance, and natural light optimisation. We provide expert guidance on achieving environmental standards while maintaining architectural integrity and cost-effectiveness throughout the project lifecycle.
Project Management
We offer comprehensive project management services, guiding schemes from planning approval to practical completion. Our role includes coordinating consultants, monitoring budgets, and ensuring quality control during construction. Through regular site inspections and detailed documentation, we guarantee adherence to design specifications and regulatory requirements.
Housing Schemes
We design housing projects that address contemporary living needs while respecting local context. Our schemes range from single dwellings to large-scale developments, focusing on spatial quality, accessibility, and long-term durability. We work closely with planners and contractors to deliver cost-effective, sustainable housing solutions that meet modern standards.
People
Oliver Barsoum
Co-Founder
Co-founded Syte Architects in 2000 after working at leading London practices. Advocates for research-driven design, prioritising material integrity and spatial quality. Holds architecture degrees from AA School and University of Cambridge.
Rob Whitlock
Co-Founder
Co-founder with 20+ years' experience in residential and mixed-use projects. Emphasises collaborative design processes and sustainability. Graduated from Bartlett School of Architecture, specialising in urban regeneration projects.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential projects, mixed-use developments, and housing schemes, with additional expertise in sustainability consultancy and project management.
How does your design process work?
Our seven-stage process follows RIBA guidelines, starting with strategic brief development through to post-construction evaluation, ensuring client collaboration at every phase.
Do you handle planning applications?
Yes, we prepare and submit planning applications, including detailed justifications for design decisions and site relationships to support successful approvals.
How do you incorporate sustainability?
We prioritise fabric-first solutions, optimising insulation, natural ventilation, and material selection to achieve high energy performance without relying on technology.
Can you manage construction phases?
Yes, we act as contract administrators, conducting site inspections, issuing payment certificates, and ensuring compliance with design specifications throughout construction.
What areas do you work in?
Primarily London and surrounding regions, though we consider projects nationwide based on the specific opportunities and client requirements.
