Business Details
Your Trusted Nottingham Architect for Low-Energy & Conservation Projects
Established with over two decades of experience, our practice specialises in crafting low-energy residential buildings and extensions that harmonise modern functionality with traditional aesthetics. Based in Nottingham, we prioritise uncompromising design quality and technical precision, offering tailored architectural services from initial concept to project completion. Our hands-on approach ensures direct oversight of every project, enabling competitive pricing without VAT. With expertise in navigating planning regulations and conservation area requirements, we deliver bespoke solutions that exceed client expectations while maintaining cost-effectiveness.Our portfolio demonstrates proficiency in integrating sustainable technologies like Passivhaus standards and air-source heat pumps, alongside traditional construction methods. We maintain a network of trusted local tradespeople to address diverse project challenges, focusing on creating spaces that balance architectural integrity with practical living requirements.
Services
Low-Energy House Design
Conservation Architecture
Planning Applications
Project Management
Extensions
Sustainable Renovations
Passivhaus Standards
Tree Preservation Compliance
Heritage Building Repair
Custom Residential Design
Highlights and features
- Over 20 years' experience in Nottinghamshire residential architecture
- No VAT charged on professional fees
- Expertise in conservation area and TPO-compliant designs
- Direct principal involvement in all projects
- Proven track record with Passivhaus-standard constructions
What people say
Beautiful detailing
Excellent planning guidance
Energy-efficient solutions
Competitive pricing
Personal service
Services
Low-Energy House Design
Specialist design of super-insulated dwellings meeting Passivhaus standards. Incorporates air-source heat pumps, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, and sustainable materials. Creates energy-efficient homes with annual running costs under 400 despite large floor areas.
Conservation Architecture
Expertise in listed buildings and conservation areas. Successfully secured planning permission for complex projects involving Tree Preservation Orders. Combines traditional materials with modern detailing to preserve architectural integrity while meeting contemporary needs.
Extensions
Designs for kitchen, bedroom, and living space extensions. Uses glulam, steel, and green oak framing. Creates open-plan spaces with panoramic glazing while maintaining structural efficiency and cost-effective construction methods.
Project Management
Full project administration including tendering, contract management, and construction phase inspections. Coordinates specialist contractors for foundations, oak framing, and mechanical systems to ensure quality control and regulatory compliance.
Planning Applications
Navigates complex planning processes with local authorities. Develops designs that address potential objections through consultation with arboricultural experts and heritage bodies to achieve successful first-time approvals.
People
Chris Francis
Architect
Solo practitioner with over 20 years' experience in Nottinghamshire. Specialises in low-energy residential design and conservation architecture. Maintains direct control over all projects to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness.
Questions
What geographical areas do you cover?
We primarily work in Nottingham and the East Midlands region.
Do you handle planning permission applications?
Yes, we specialise in navigating complex planning processes including conservation areas and Tree Preservation Orders.
What building standards do you work with?
We design to Passivhaus standards and incorporate sustainable technologies like heat pumps and mechanical ventilation systems.
How are your fees structured?
As a sole practitioner, we offer competitive fees without VAT charges, with transparent pricing tailored to each project.
Can you manage complete building projects?
Yes, we provide full architectural and project management services from concept through to completion.
