Business Details
27 Years
experience
Award-Winning Sustainable Architecture in London
51% Studios is a distinguished architectural practice with a proven track record in delivering innovative, sustainable, and heritage-sensitive designs. Founded in 1999, our work spans private residences, community spaces, public exhibitions, and wildlife conservation projects, reflecting a deep commitment to blending traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. Our team collaborates closely with artisans, engineers, and environmental experts to create enduring structures that harmonize with their surroundings.Recognized with multiple awards, including RIBA and AIA accolades, we prioritize ethical material sourcing, energy efficiency, and client-centric solutions. Our expertise in repurposing existing materials and integrating natural elements into urban environments has established us as leaders in responsible 21st-century design. With projects across the UK and internationally, we remain dedicated to enhancing both human and ecological well-being through architecture.
Services
Residential architecture
Heritage restoration
Sustainable design
Community spaces
Wildlife conservation structures
Public exhibitions
Urban regeneration
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in sustainable architectural design.
- Our team collaborates with specialist engineers and environmental experts.
- We prioritize ethical material sourcing and circular economy principles.
- Our projects have won RIBA, AIA, and Grand Designs awards.
- We integrate digital manufacturing with traditional craftsmanship.
What people say
Award-winning designs
Sustainable focus
Heritage expertise
Client-centric approach
Creative solutions
Services
Residential architecture
We create bespoke family homes that balance modern functionality with historical context. Our designs incorporate energy-efficient materials, natural light optimization, and seamless indoor-outdoor connections. Each project prioritizes site-specific solutions and long-term adaptability.
Heritage restoration
Specializing in listed buildings, we restore architectural heritage using traditional techniques combined with modern technology. Our approach preserves historical integrity while enhancing usability through careful material selection and structural upgrades.
Sustainable design
We develop low-carbon buildings using ethically sourced materials and passive environmental systems. Our expertise includes lifecycle carbon analysis, energy-efficient glazing, and off-site construction methods to minimize environmental impact.
Community spaces
We design inclusive community facilities that enhance social interaction and accessibility. Projects feature adaptable layouts, locally resonant materials, and integration with surrounding urban or natural environments.
Wildlife conservation structures
We create species-specific habitats like bat roosts and insect gardens for urban environments. Our designs follow expert guidelines to support biodiversity while maintaining aesthetic integration with architectural contexts.
People
Catherine du Toit
Director
Co-founder with 25+ years experience in sustainable architecture. Specializes in heritage-sensitive design and material innovation. Leads major residential and conservation projects.
Peter Thomas
Director
Co-founder renowned for integrating digital fabrication with traditional craftsmanship. Expert in low-carbon construction methods and urban regeneration projects.
Alice Bates
Architect
Specializes in public realm projects and community engagement. Key contributor to award-winning wildlife conservation structures and educational facilities.
Thomas Smethurst
Senior Architect
Focuses on residential renovations and heritage projects. Expert in adaptive reuse strategies and sustainable material specification for listed buildings.
Matthew Smith
Project Architect
Leads technical delivery of complex urban infill projects. Specializes in energy-efficient retrofit solutions and modern methods of construction.
Questions
What architectural styles does 51 architecture specialize in?
We work across contemporary, heritage, and adaptive reuse projects, always prioritizing context-sensitive solutions that blend traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.
Do you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we specialize in residential architecture, community spaces, and public exhibitions, with additional expertise in wildlife conservation structures and urban regeneration.
How does the firm incorporate sustainability into designs?
We use ethically sourced materials, passive environmental systems, lifecycle carbon analysis, and prioritize material reuse. Our off-site construction methods reduce waste and improve efficiency.
Can you work with listed buildings or conservation areas?
Yes, we have extensive experience in heritage restoration, including Georgian, Victorian, and conservation area projects, combining modern functionality with historical integrity.
What awards has the firm received?
Our projects have won RIBA Awards, AIA Excellence in Design, Grand Designs Award finalists, and multiple regional architectural accolades for sustainable and innovative design.
Do you offer international architectural services?
While based in London, we've completed projects in Colorado, collaborated on international public art installations, and work with global specialists for wildlife conservation initiatives.
