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Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Northampton
Architectural & Planning Consultancy is a multi-disciplinary practice offering combined and separate services to commercial and individual clients. Our team possesses a breadth of knowledge and experience to deliver bespoke services for projects of any size and complexity. We specialise in submitting planning applications, providing representations for development plans, and obtaining Building Regulation Approvals, aiming to reduce costs, time, and energy for our clients. As a RIBA chartered practice, we are committed to delivering competitive services through dedicated planning and architectural teams. Our focus is on realising the potential of commercial, residential, or vacant sites, unlocking value, and ensuring a hassle-free development experience. We tailor each scheme to its surrounding context, utilising local vernacular materials in either contemporary or traditional ways.

Our designs prioritise sustainability and innovation, providing unique solutions that align with client aspirations and budgets. With years of combined professional experience, we have completed numerous architectural and planning projects, serving a diverse range of sectors including residential, commercial, care homes, industrial, medical, and community buildings. Our team includes experienced professionals such as Duncan Jennings, Director of Architecture, and Simon Lawson, Head of Planning, who bring decades of expertise to every project. We pride ourselves on sound planning and development advice, working with national house-builders, investors, businesses, and householders to achieve successful outcomes.
Services
Residential Architecture Commercial Planning Care Home Development Industrial Projects Community Buildings Medical Facilities Master Planning Apartment Design Heritage Conservation Building Regulations
Highlights and features
  • We are a RIBA chartered practice with dedicated planning and architectural teams.
  • Our designs utilise local vernacular materials tailored to each project's context.
  • We prioritise sustainability and innovation in every bespoke solution.
  • Our team has decades of combined experience in residential and commercial projects.
  • We offer tailored services to unlock value and streamline development processes.
Associations and certifications
  • Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
Services
Residential Architecture
We create tailored residential designs that integrate with local surroundings, using vernacular materials in traditional or contemporary styles. Our focus is on sustainability, innovation, and meeting client aspirations. With experience in individual houses, apartments, and master-planned communities, we ensure each project maximises value and functionality while adhering to planning regulations.
Commercial Planning
Our commercial planning services support projects ranging from industrial units to healthcare facilities. We provide strategic advice on planning applications, policy compliance, and development management. By understanding client needs and regulatory requirements, we deliver efficient solutions that enhance project viability and long-term success for businesses and investors.
Care Home Development
Specialising in care home developments, we design spaces that prioritise accessibility, comfort, and modern healthcare needs. Our projects, such as St Edmunds Dementia Care Home, demonstrate expertise in securing planning consent and navigating building regulations. We collaborate with clients to create environments that support residents' well-being and operational efficiency.
Community Buildings
We design community buildings that enhance local areas, such as sports pavilions and civic centres. Our approach balances functionality with aesthetic appeal, ensuring spaces meet community needs while respecting historical and environmental contexts. Recent projects include Islip Community Sports Pavilion, reflecting our commitment to enriching public infrastructure.
Heritage Conservation
Our heritage conservation services focus on protecting and repurposing historic structures. We have secured planning approvals for converting agricultural barns into residences and preserving Grade II-listed buildings. By combining traditional techniques with modern adaptations, we ensure historical integrity while meeting contemporary usage requirements.
People
Duncan Jennings
Director - Architect
Duncan Jennings is a RIBA chartered architect with extensive experience in residential and commercial projects. He leads design teams to deliver innovative, context-sensitive solutions that align with client goals and regulatory standards.
Simon Lawson
Head of Planning
Simon Lawson, with over 30 years in planning and development management, oversees strategic planning advice. His expertise spans major applications, appeals, and policy compliance, ensuring clients achieve viable and sustainable outcomes.
Carmela Neal
Architect
Carmela Neal specialises in residential and community architecture, focusing on sustainable design and planning approvals. Her work ensures projects balance aesthetic appeal with functional, budget-conscious solutions for diverse client needs.
James Lock
Senior Architectural Technologist
James Lock manages BIM processes and technical aspects of architectural projects. His expertise ensures seamless transitions from design to construction, maintaining compliance with building regulations and industry standards.
Georgia Bustin
Architectural Assistant
Georgia Bustin supports architectural projects with a focus on residential developments. Her role includes drafting designs, coordinating with planning authorities, and ensuring projects meet sustainability and client requirements.
Questions
What services does Architectural & Planning Consultancy offer?
We provide architectural and planning services for residential, commercial, care homes, industrial, medical, and community projects, including design, planning applications, and heritage conservation.
Are Architectural & Planning Consultancy a RIBA chartered practice?
Yes, we are a Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) chartered practice, ensuring high standards of professionalism and expertise in all our projects.
Which areas do you serve?
We operate across Northampton, Milton Keynes, Rutland, Stoke Bruerne, and surrounding regions, delivering tailored solutions for local and national clients.
How do you approach sustainable design?
We integrate sustainability into every project by using local materials, energy-efficient designs, and innovative solutions that reduce environmental impact while meeting client needs.
Can you assist with planning applications?
Yes, our planning team provides strategic advice, prepares submissions, and navigates policy compliance to secure approvals for residential, commercial, and community developments.
What experience do you have with care homes?
We have successfully delivered projects like St Edmunds Dementia Care Home, combining accessibility, modern healthcare needs, and planning expertise to create functional, resident-focused environments.