Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture & Masterplanning Experts
Founded in 1965 as a cooperative, we are pioneers in creating innovative buildings and masterplans that harmonise with nature to foster sustainable living. Our practice is rooted in ecology, social responsibility, and collaboration, with a global portfolio spanning universities, hospitals, and homes. Based in London and Nottingham, we integrate natural systems and renewable technologies to deliver client-focused solutions that enhance community wellbeing.Our employee-owned structure reflects our belief in shared innovation and designing buildings as social acts. Over decades, we have evolved while maintaining our founding ethos of connecting people with the natural world through architecture.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Masterplanning
Sustainability Consultancy
Passivhaus Design
Green Retrofitting
Details
- Year established: 1965
Highlights and features
- We have over 55 years of experience in sustainable architecture and masterplanning.
- Our employee-owned structure ensures collaborative, client-focused design processes.
- We pioneered ecological building practices in the UK since the 1960s.
- Our projects combine natural systems with innovative renewable technologies.
- We maintain a strong culture of shared learning and open innovation.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
We create buildings that harmonise with natural ecosystems using renewable materials and energy-efficient systems. Our designs maximise daylight, incorporate green spaces, and reduce carbon footprints. This approach delivers healthier environments for occupants while minimising environmental impact.
Masterplanning
Our masterplanning integrates ecological principles with urban development to create connected, sustainable communities. We focus on green infrastructure, walkability, and mixed-use spaces that adapt to future climate challenges while enhancing local biodiversity.
Passivhaus Design
We specialise in certified Passivhaus developments that provide superior thermal comfort with minimal energy consumption. Our designs use advanced insulation, airtight construction, and heat recovery systems to achieve up to 90% energy savings compared to traditional buildings.
Green Retrofitting
We transform existing structures through deep retrofit strategies that improve energy performance and extend building lifespans. Our methods include external wall insulation, renewable energy integration, and adaptive reuse of materials to reduce construction waste.
Sustainability Consultancy
We provide expert guidance on achieving net-zero targets, BREEAM certification, and circular economy principles. Our consultants help clients navigate planning requirements, select sustainable materials, and implement low-carbon technologies across project lifecycles.
People
Ted Cullinan
Founder
Ted Cullinan founded the practice in 1965 as a cooperative, championing sustainable architecture and social responsibility. His visionary approach shaped the studio's enduring ethos of designing buildings as social and ecological acts.
Carol Costello
Business Development Lead
Carol leads business development, fostering partnerships that align with our sustainability mission. With extensive industry experience, she connects our design expertise with clients seeking innovative, nature-focused architectural solutions.
Richard Pulford
Project Director
Richard oversees complex architectural projects, ensuring technical excellence and adherence to sustainability principles. His leadership combines creative vision with practical delivery for healthcare, education, and residential developments.
Roddy Langmuir
Design Quality Lead
Roddy champions design excellence across projects, balancing aesthetic innovation with environmental performance. He mentors teams to achieve high-quality outcomes that meet client needs and exceed sustainability benchmarks.
Robin Nicholson
Fellow
Robin contributes strategic insight as a studio fellow, drawing on decades of experience in sustainable architecture. His work focuses on advancing ecological design principles and mentoring emerging professionals within the practice.
Questions
What architectural services does Cullinan Studio offer?
We specialise in sustainable architecture, masterplanning, and environmental consultancy for projects including hospitals, housing, and educational facilities.
How does the studio incorporate sustainability into designs?
We prioritise natural materials, renewable energy, daylighting, and green spaces to create buildings that enhance ecological and human wellbeing.
Are your buildings certified to environmental standards?
Yes, we design to Passivhaus and net-zero standards, with expertise in PAS 2035 retrofitting and decarbonisation strategies.
Can you work on international projects?
We have delivered award-winning projects globally, including in Europe, Asia, and Africa, alongside UK-based developments.
What is your approach to community engagement?
We co-design with communities to ensure projects reflect local needs, as demonstrated in our estate regeneration schemes.
