Business Details
Award-Winning Sustainable Architects in London
Rihl Procter is a distinguished architectural practice specialising in climate-responsive and culturally sensitive design for residential and urban projects. With expertise in both retrofitting heritage structures and creating innovative new builds, we combine technical precision with a deep understanding of historical context. Our work has earned international recognition, including RIBA Awards and accolades at the Chelsea Flower Show, while our research informs industry standards like Islington's 2025 Retrofit Handbook. We prioritise sustainable solutions through methodologies such as Passivhaus energy modelling and renewable electrification systems. Our team, led by directors trained at institutions like the Architectural Association and Carnegie-Mellon University, brings decades of global experience across architecture, education, and environmental research.Publications and lectures disseminate our findings on vacuum glazing technology and conservation area retrofits, positioning us at the forefront of climate emergency architecture. Client-focused guidance on heat pumps, solar systems, and energy efficiency ensures tailored solutions that balance comfort with ecological responsibility. Our portfolio spans listed buildings like Slice House to urban parklets, demonstrating adaptability across scales and contexts. Collaborative partnerships with institutions and contributions to industry publications reinforce our commitment to advancing architectural practice through rigorous research and innovation.
Services
Conservation
Climate Retrofit
Design
Urban Projects
Furniture
Highlights and features
- We have 20+ years' experience in heritage retrofit projects
- Our team includes RIBA-registered architects with academic leadership
- We employ Passivhaus PHPP software for energy performance analysis
- Award-winning practice with RIBA and Chelsea Flower Show recognition
- Pioneers in climate emergency conservation area research
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
Services
Conservation
Specialist retrofitting and extension of heritage homes using sensitive technical solutions. Upgrades energy standards while preserving historical integrity through methods like vacuum glazing technology. Successfully navigates planning appeals for conservation areas.
Climate Retrofit
Implementation of renewable electrification systems including heat pumps and solar technology. Utilises Passivhaus PHPP software for energy performance analysis. Focuses on reducing carbon footprint while maintaining comfort standards in residential projects.
Design
Innovative residential and urban design combining technical expertise with artistic vision. Achieved multiple awards including RIBA Award and Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal. Specialises in balancing modern functionality with contextual sensitivity.
Urban Projects
Creation of coherent urban spaces through strategic design interventions. Develops graphic sensibility with strong forms contrasted against soft landscaping. Notable projects include pedestrian roundabouts and parklets that enhance urban environments.
Furniture
Design of functional yet artistic furniture pieces that complement architectural projects. Explores material innovation and ergonomic principles. Featured in publications and exhibitions including the Museu da Casa Brasileira competition.
People
Christopher Procter
Director
RIBA-registered architect with expertise in solar design and conservation. Trained at the Architectural Association and Carnegie-Mellon University. Led technology programmes at Royal College of Art and published extensively on climate retrofitting.
Dr Fernando Rihl
Director
PhD in daylighting studies with experience across UK and Brazil. Awarded best architectural student in Brazil 1989. Led design studios at Royal College of Art and specialises in environmental studies for sustainable architecture.
Questions
What architectural services do Procter-Rihl specialise in?
We specialise in heritage conservation, climate-responsive retrofitting, sustainable new builds, urban design, and furniture design. Our expertise spans residential and public realm projects with a focus on energy efficiency.
Are Procter-Rihl qualified to handle listed buildings?
Yes, our team includes RIBA-registered architects with extensive experience in conservation areas. We successfully completed projects like Slice House and developed Islington's 2025 Retrofit Handbook for heritage properties.
What sustainability technologies do they use?
We employ Passivhaus PHPP software for energy analysis, specify heat pumps and solar systems, and pioneer vacuum glazing technology for heritage retrofits to achieve net-zero ready buildings.
Has the practice received architectural awards?
Yes, we've won RIBA Awards, Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal, and been finalists for UK Architect of the Year. Slice House received listed status equivalent to Grade II in 2017.
Do they publish research findings?
Yes, we publish technical guides on vacuum glazing and conservation retrofitting. Our 2023 Climate Emergency Conservation Area Toolkit informed Islington's official retrofit policies.
Where are Procter-Rihl based?
Our main office is at 63 Cross Street, London N1 2BB. We also have a US office in Brattleboro, Vermont, serving international clients across residential and urban architecture sectors.
