Business Details
47 Years
experience
RIBA Chartered Architects in Kidlington, Oxfordshire
Coleman Hicks Architects, established in 1979, is a RIBA Chartered practice based in Kidlington, Oxfordshire. With over four decades of experience, we deliver a diverse range of projects including residential developments, industrial and retail units, educational facilities, and community-focused schemes. Our team of 11 professionals combines technical expertise with creative innovation, serving clients across the Thames Valley, Central London, and the South of England. Directors personally oversee each project from inception to completion, ensuring tailored solutions that align with client aspirations.We utilise advanced 2D/3D software alongside traditional hand-drawn techniques to produce clear, functional designs. Our commitment to sustainability is evident in projects like carbon-neutral housing and eco-friendly school buildings. We actively engage in community initiatives and support staff development through apprenticeships and RIBA qualifications. Our approach prioritises simplicity, sustainability, and enhancing local environments through architecture that resonates with its surroundings.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Development
School Design
Industrial Buildings
Masterplanning
Renovations
Sustainable Design
Community Projects
Planning Applications
Building Control Submissions
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- 40+ years' experience in residential and commercial architecture
- RIBA Chartered Practice with directors personally overseeing projects
- Combination of digital tools and traditional hand-drawn design techniques
- Specialists in sustainable design including ground source heat pump systems
- Proven track record in complex planning applications and listed building renovations
Associations and certifications
- RIBA Chartered Practice
Services
Residential Architecture
We create innovative residential schemes ranging from single dwellings to large housing developments. Our expertise includes navigating planning constraints in conservation areas and designing energy-efficient homes. Recent projects feature contemporary extensions that complement traditional architecture while meeting modern living requirements.
Commercial Development
Our commercial projects encompass supermarkets, industrial units, and mixed-use developments. We deliver functional spaces that balance commercial viability with architectural quality, as demonstrated in Highworth Co-op's integrated supermarket and library facility.
School Design
Specialising in educational facilities, we design inspiring learning environments. The Bletchingdon School project showcases our ability to integrate modern architecture within traditional settings, while Walton High School's eco-friendly teaching block demonstrates our commitment to sustainable education infrastructure.
Masterplanning
We develop comprehensive masterplans that shape communities, such as the 40-home Bletchingdon Housing scheme. Our approach considers environmental impact, community needs, and long-term sustainability while maintaining architectural coherence across multiple phases.
Sustainable Design
Sustainability underpins all our projects, from carbon-neutral housing in Bladon to energy-efficient schools. We employ modern construction methods like ground source heat pumps and prioritise materials that reduce environmental impact while maintaining architectural integrity.
People
Sam Cook
Director
With over 25 years' experience, Sam specialises in concept design and planning. He leads projects from initial ideas through to completion, ensuring creative vision aligns with practical requirements while maintaining architectural quality.
Steven Wakefield
Director
As director since 2013, Steven oversees project delivery with 25+ years' architectural expertise. He focuses on client relationships and technical excellence, ensuring projects meet both functional needs and design aspirations.
Lucy Baker
Office Manager
Managing day-to-day operations for 15+ years, Lucy ensures smooth practice administration. Her responsibilities include financial management, data compliance, and supporting both staff and clients with organisational expertise.
Declan O'Leary
Architect
With 15 years' experience, Declan manages projects from concept to construction. His technical knowledge ensures designs translate effectively into built form, with particular expertise in contractual and construction management aspects.
Roger Tamplin
Consultant
Bringing 45 years' experience, Roger specialises in rural and community projects. His expertise in foodstore architecture and understanding of local contexts informs strategic decisions across our residential and commercial schemes.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential developments, commercial buildings, educational facilities, and sustainable design projects across Oxfordshire and the South of England.
How long have you been in practice?
We've been operating as a RIBA Chartered Practice since 1979, with over 40 years' experience in architectural design and project management.
Do you work outside Oxfordshire?
Yes, we serve clients throughout the Thames Valley, Central London, and the South of England, including Northamptonshire, Wiltshire, and Gloucestershire.
What makes your practice different?
Our directors personally oversee every project, combining digital tools with traditional techniques to create functional, sustainable architecture tailored to each client's needs.
How do you approach sustainable design?
We integrate energy-efficient solutions like ground source heat pumps and prioritise materials with low environmental impact while maintaining architectural quality.
Can you handle complex planning applications?
Yes, we have extensive experience with challenging planning contexts including conservation areas, listed buildings, and flood zone developments.
