Business Details
46 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Design & Consultancy Services
Established over four decades ago, Self Architects has built a reputation as a trusted provider of architectural, interior design, and masterplanning services to clients across local, national, and international markets. Our philosophy centres on active listening, collaboration, and delivering innovative design solutions that balance commercial and aesthetic priorities. With studios in London and Sheffield, we leverage advanced BIM technology and maintain a commitment to sustainable building practices. Our team includes experienced professionals with decades of sector-specific expertise, many of whom have remained with the practice for over ten years, ensuring continuity and deep institutional knowledge.We adhere to the RIBA Code of Professional Conduct and prioritise hands-on senior involvement in every project. Beyond commercial work, we contribute to community initiatives, such as our pro bono redevelopment of Sheffield's Temple Park Centre, demonstrating our dedication to social impact. This combination of technical excellence, client-focused service, and ethical practice has earned long-term partnerships with organisations like the NHS and Jaguar Estates.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Masterplanning
Visualisation
BIM
Feasibility
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of architectural expertise across diverse sectors
- Our team includes RIBA-chartered architects with specialist planning knowledge
- We deliver projects using BIM Level 2 and advanced digital technologies
- We maintain a 95% client retention rate through consistent delivery excellence
- Our practice has achieved Net Zero certification for multiple developments
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
What people say
Exceptional design solutions
Strong sector knowledge
Reliable delivery
Professional team
Innovative approach
Services
Architecture
Our architectural services combine creative vision with technical precision to deliver functional, sustainable spaces. We specialise in residential developments, healthcare facilities, and commercial buildings, using BIM technology to ensure accuracy throughout the project lifecycle. Clients benefit from our 40+ years of experience in achieving planning approvals and delivering complex projects on schedule.
Interior Design
We create interior environments that enhance user experience while meeting commercial requirements. Our approach integrates spatial efficiency, material selection, and lighting design to produce spaces that align with both aesthetic and functional goals. Recent projects include student accommodation and luxury hotel interiors that prioritise usability and contemporary design.
Masterplanning
Our masterplanning services focus on creating cohesive, sustainable communities through strategic land use and infrastructure planning. We develop comprehensive visions for mixed-use developments that balance residential, commercial, and public spaces while incorporating green infrastructure and accessibility considerations to future-proof urban environments.
BIM
We utilise Building Information Modelling to enhance project coordination and efficiency. Our BIM Level 2 capabilities enable collaborative design processes that reduce errors and streamline construction. This digital approach supports sustainable decision-making through data-driven analysis of energy performance and material selection.
Feasibility Studies
We conduct detailed feasibility assessments to evaluate project viability, considering planning constraints, budget parameters, and technical requirements. Our studies provide clients with clear risk assessments and strategic recommendations to inform decision-making, ensuring projects are both commercially sound and architecturally viable.
People
Kevin Unwin
Managing Director
With extensive strategic leadership experience, Kevin oversees all design and technical aspects of projects. He specialises in procurement strategies across multiple sectors and ensures client satisfaction through focused project delivery.
Martyn Smith
Director
Martyn brings over 40 years of architectural experience, managing large-scale residential and interior design projects. He coordinates multidisciplinary teams and maintains long-term client relationships through his sector-specific expertise.
Jonathan Morrison
Associate Architect
A RIBA Chartered Architect and qualified planner, Jonathan combines architectural and urban planning expertise to create context-sensitive designs. He lectures at leading architecture schools and contributes to sustainable design initiatives.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential, healthcare, industrial, and mixed-use developments, with expertise in BIM technology and sustainable design solutions.
How long has Self Architects been in business?
We have been providing architectural services for over 40 years, with our Sheffield studio established in the 1980s.
Do you work on international projects?
Yes, while maintaining strong local presence in Sheffield and London, we deliver projects for clients across national and international markets.
What sustainability credentials do you have?
We design to BREEAM Outstanding standards and Net Zero certification, incorporating renewable energy systems and sustainable materials in our projects.
How do you approach client collaboration?
We begin with detailed brief consultations, maintain transparent communication throughout projects, and ensure senior team involvement at every stage.
Can you handle complex planning applications?
Yes, we have extensive experience securing planning approvals for sensitive locations, including recent successes in the Peak District and urban regeneration sites.
