Business Details
20 Years
experience
Belfast Architects for Commercial & Residential Projects
Established in 2006, our practice delivers architectural solutions across diverse sectors including commercial, residential, and academic projects. With a foundation in London and experience spanning jurisdictions such as Northern Ireland, Scotland, and France, we prioritise bespoke design tailored to each client's needs. Our work has been recognised through awards including the RSUA Commendation and Best Restaurant accolades in Northern Ireland. Led by Neil Mathews, a RIBA-registered architect with two decades of private practice and academic experience, we combine technical expertise with creative innovation. Our team includes specialists in contract administration, planning legislation, and building control, ensuring comprehensive service delivery.Publications such as Perspective Magazine and Architects' Journal have featured our projects, reflecting our commitment to quality and originality. We maintain strong ties to academic institutions, with Neil serving as a Professional Examiner and former course leader at Queen's University. Our international portfolio demonstrates adaptability to varied cultural and regulatory environments. Through ARCex, a professional practice course co-founded by Neil, we contribute to architectural education and competency standards. Client satisfaction remains central to our approach, with every project designed to meet specific functional, aesthetic, and budgetary requirements.
Services
Commercial Architecture
Residential Design
Academic Projects
Contract Administration
Professional Practice Courses
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of architectural expertise across multiple jurisdictions
- Our team includes RIBA-registered professionals with academic leadership experience
- Award-winning designs featured in leading industry publications
- Specialist knowledge of regional planning legislation and building control
- Proven track record in both private practice and professional education
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- RSUA
- RIAS
Services
Commercial Architecture
We create innovative commercial spaces tailored to business needs. Our expertise spans hotels, restaurants, and industrial projects across multiple jurisdictions. Clients benefit from our deep understanding of planning regulations and building standards.
Residential Design
Our residential architecture covers individual houses and apartment schemes. Each project receives customised attention to meet specific lifestyle requirements while adhering to local building codes. We balance aesthetic appeal with functional living spaces.
Professional Practice Courses
ARCex provides Part 3 architectural education through structured lecture days. Delivered by experienced professionals, our programme meets ARB criteria while offering flexible learning options for practicing architects.
People
Neil Mathews
Principal Architect
RIBA-registered architect with 20+ years' experience. Taught at UK and Irish universities, served as Professional Examiner, and led Queen's University's Professional Practice course. Holds MArch from Mackintosh School of Architecture.
Lawrence Johnston
Co-Founder ARCex
Former Head of School at Queen's University with 25 years' teaching experience. Co-authored 'The Architect in Practice' and ARB Part 3 criteria. Specialises in professional practice education and competency frameworks.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in commercial, residential, and academic architecture with expertise in cross-jurisdictional projects.
Do you work outside Northern Ireland?
Yes, we deliver projects across the UK, Ireland, and France with knowledge of regional building regulations.
Can you assist with professional architectural education?
Our ARCex programme offers Part 3 architectural education meeting ARB criteria through structured lecture days.
What qualifications do your architects hold?
Our team includes RIBA, RSUA, and RIAS-registered architects with postgraduate architecture qualifications.