Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Architectural Design & Sustainable Building Solutions
Established in 1934, Hives Architects has built a legacy of delivering thoughtful, client-focused architectural solutions. Our practice combines decades of experience with a commitment to sustainable design, specialising in barn conversions, Passivhaus projects, and heritage buildings. Led by RIBA Chartered professionals, we guide clients from initial concept to project completion, prioritising environmental responsibility and functional aesthetics.Our teams expertise in low-energy design and BIM modelling ensures modern, efficient solutions tailored to individual needs. With a history of working on diverse building types, from commercial spaces to residential developments, we maintain a dedication to innovation while respecting traditional craftsmanship. Our collaborative approach ensures every project reflects the unique vision and requirements of our clients.
Services
Barn Conversions
Passivhaus Design
Listed Buildings
Office to Residential
Low Energy Design
Community Buildings
Commercial Projects
Education Facilities
Details
- Year established: 1934
Highlights and features
- We offer 90 years of architectural experience with a focus on sustainable design.
- Our team includes a Certified Passivhaus Consultant for energy-efficient projects.
- We provide tailored solutions from concept to completion using BIM technology.
- Our heritage expertise ensures sensitive restoration of listed buildings.
- We combine innovation with traditional craftsmanship for unique client outcomes.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA Chartered
What people say
Beautiful new home
Successfully navigated planning stages
Well-proportioned spaces
Minimal energy use
Balanced exterior design
Services
Barn Conversions
Transform historic barns into modern living or commercial spaces while preserving architectural integrity. Our approach balances planning compliance with bespoke design, addressing structural challenges and energy efficiency. Clients benefit from tailored solutions that merge tradition with contemporary functionality.
Passivhaus Design
Specialist design for ultra-low energy buildings meeting Passivhaus standards. We integrate thermal efficiency, airtightness, and mechanical ventilation systems to create comfortable, sustainable spaces. Our certified consultant ensures rigorous compliance with international energy benchmarks.
Listed Buildings
Sensitive restoration and adaptation of protected structures. We prepare detailed heritage statements and navigate complex planning requirements while maintaining historical accuracy. Services include repairs, extensions, and modernisation within legal and aesthetic constraints.
Office to Residential
Repurpose office spaces into residential units with innovative layouts and compliance expertise. We address structural, planning, and energy performance challenges to create functional, market-ready homes in evolving urban environments.
Low Energy Design
Design services optimising energy efficiency through passive design principles and advanced materials. We conduct thermal imaging assessments and model energy performance to reduce carbon footprints while enhancing occupant comfort across all building types.
People
Henk Wieringa
Architect Partner
Qualified in 1999 at Delft University, Henk oversees diverse projects including complex planning applications. He joined Hives in 2010 after working at Foster and Partners, bringing expertise in large-scale developments and heritage schemes.
Alistair Cruickshank
Passivhaus Consultant Partner
Certified Passivhaus Consultant with experience in sustainable design. Joined Hives in 2020, specialising in energy modelling and low-carbon buildings. Previously worked at Bouygues UK, delivering technical expertise for environmental performance optimisation.
Cornelius Kavanagh
Architect Consultant
Qualified in 1999, Cornelius specialises in listed buildings and traditional-style architecture. Partner from 20102020, now providing heritage advice. His work includes detailed conservation assessments and sensitive restoration projects across protected structures.
Goda Gradin
Architectural Assistant
Graduated from Nottingham University with BArch and MArch. Joined during 2020 lockdown, focusing on Passivhaus housing schemes and office-to-residential conversions. Achieved planning permission for six sustainable dwellings and works on complex urban projects.
Carl Gradin
Architectural Assistant
Oxford Brookes graduate with experience in residential and care home conversions. Joined in 2020, contributing to London mixed-use developments and large extensions. Skilled in planning applications and detailed design for diverse client requirements.
Questions
What architectural services do Hives Architects offer?
We specialise in barn conversions, Passivhaus design, listed building renovations, office-to-residential projects, and low-energy commercial developments across Reading and Guildford.
Are Hives Architects qualified for heritage projects?
Yes, our team includes RIBA Chartered architects with expertise in listed buildings, heritage statements, and sensitive restoration work.
Can they assist with Passivhaus certification?
Alistair Cruickshank, our Certified Passivhaus Consultant, provides energy modelling and design to meet international low-energy standards.
How long has the practice been operating?
Hives Architects was established in 1934 and has continuously delivered architectural solutions for over 90 years.
What areas do they serve?
We primarily work in Reading, Guildford, and surrounding regions, handling projects from initial design to site completion.
Do they use modern design technology?
Yes, we utilise Archicad for 3D modelling and BIM preparation, ensuring precision across all project scales and complexities.
