Business Details
18 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Services in Birmingham
Established in 2008, Gruhe Architects is a RIBA Chartered Practice with extensive experience in residential, commercial, and ecclesiastical projects. Our expertise spans the UK and overseas, combining traditional and contemporary design with a focus on sustainability and contextual sensitivity. We prioritise environmentally conscious choices, natural light integration, and practical design solutions tailored to client needs. Our team has worked on diverse projects including private residences, masterplanning, healthcare facilities, and community spaces. We actively contribute to charitable initiatives and public architectural education through RIBA events and design surgeries.With a background in both private and public sectors, we deliver award-winning designs that balance creativity with technical precision. Our process utilises hand sketching and Revit BIM software to ensure accuracy and collaboration. We guide clients from feasibility studies to project completion, offering specialist consultancy coordination and contractor appointments. Our work has been featured in BBC and Channel 5 media, reflecting our commitment to accessible, high-quality architecture. We remain dedicated to addressing global challenges through innovative design that enhances community well-being.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Design
Ecclesiastical Projects
Masterplanning
Sustainable Design
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We are RIBA Chartered Architects with 17+ years of combined industry experience
- Our team has delivered award-winning projects across residential, commercial, and ecclesiastical sectors
- We integrate sustainability principles into every design solution
- We offer end-to-end project management from feasibility studies to site completion
- Our BIM-enabled workflow ensures precision and collaboration across disciplines
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
Services
Residential Architecture
We create bespoke residential solutions tailored to modern living requirements. Our expertise covers extensions, conversions, and new builds with a focus on spatial efficiency and aesthetic harmony. Projects incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems while respecting local architectural context.
Commercial Design
Our commercial architecture balances functionality with striking visual identity. We specialise in office spaces, retail environments, and mixed-use developments that enhance productivity and customer engagement. Designs integrate cutting-edge technology and accessibility standards for optimal business performance.
Ecclesiastical Projects
We deliver sensitive adaptations and new constructions for faith-based communities. Our approach preserves historical significance while modernising facilities for contemporary worship needs. Projects include space optimisation, accessibility improvements, and liturgical design enhancements.
Masterplanning
We develop comprehensive spatial strategies for large-scale developments. Our masterplans integrate housing, infrastructure, and public spaces with environmental considerations. We specialise in creating cohesive communities that balance density with quality of life.
Sustainable Design
We embed sustainability throughout the design process using passive design principles and renewable technologies. Our solutions reduce environmental impact while maintaining architectural integrity. We advise on energy certifications and low-carbon material selection.
People
Michael Cooray
Director & Founder
RIBA Chartered Architect with 20+ years' experience across residential, healthcare, and custodial sectors. Specialises in sustainable design and community-focused architecture. Led award-winning projects in the UK and overseas.
Pearl Cooray
Director
Experienced architect specialising in housing and masterplanning. RIBA member with expertise in large-scale residential developments and regeneration projects. Focuses on functional design that enhances local environments.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential, commercial, and ecclesiastical architecture, with expertise in sustainable design and masterplanning projects across the UK and internationally.
Are you a RIBA Chartered Practice?
Yes, we have been a RIBA Chartered Practice since 2008, maintaining the highest professional standards in architectural design and service delivery.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
We integrate passive design principles, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable materials throughout our projects to minimise environmental impact while maintaining architectural quality.
Can you handle listed building projects?
Yes, we have experience working with heritage assets, including the adaptive reuse of non-designated heritage buildings like the Water Tower in Newark.
What technology do you use?
We combine traditional hand sketching with Revit BIM software to ensure precise 3D modelling and seamless collaboration with consultants and contractors.
Do you work outside the UK?
Yes, we have international experience including projects in Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and the Middle East, alongside our UK-based architectural work.
