Business Details
21 Years
experience
Award-Winning Sustainable Architecture in Bath
Founded in 2005 by Chris Mackenzie and joined by Spencer Back in 2010, Designscape Architects is a close-knit practice dedicated to delivering elegant, sustainable architecture. Our team combines extensive experience across residential and commercial projects with a collaborative culture that prioritises creativity and client collaboration. We specialise in bespoke solutions for challenging sites, historic buildings, and modern developments, with particular expertise in the South West, Cotswolds, and London. Our work consistently demonstrates environmental consciousness, evidenced by our commitment to the Architects Declare initiative and a fabric-first approach to design.Recognised through multiple RIBA, LABC, and RICS awards, we maintain a reputation for transforming complex briefs into buildable, innovative solutions. Our proficiency in BIM technology and VR visualisation tools ensures clients experience projects tangibly from concept stages. With a proven track record in listed buildings, greenbelt developments, and contemporary extensions, we prioritise longevity and functionality while preserving aesthetic integrity. This balanced expertise across both traditional and modern architectural practices enables tailored responses to each unique project requirement.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Architecture
Sustainable Design
Extension Projects
Listed Building Work
Barn Conversions
Education Sector Projects
Agricultural Buildings
Equestrian Architecture
Conservation Areas
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- We have 20+ years combined experience across UK architectural projects
- We utilise BIM technology and VR visualisation for precise project representation
- Our team holds specialist expertise in listed building conservation and greenbelt developments
- We maintain a fabric-first approach prioritising environmental sustainability
- Our practice has won multiple RIBA, LABC and RICS architectural awards
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- LABC
- RICS
What people say
Stunning results
Excellent builder partnership
Smooth process from design to completion
Award-winning designs
Wow factor spaces
Services
Residential Architecture
We create contemporary residential spaces that blend modern functionality with contextual sensitivity. Our expertise spans new builds, extensions, and renovations across challenging sites including listed buildings and conservation areas. Clients benefit from our deep understanding of planning regulations and proven track record in achieving approvals for complex projects. Our designs prioritise natural light, spatial flow, and sustainable materials.
Commercial Architecture
Our commercial projects range from agricultural facilities to art galleries, combining practical requirements with aesthetic excellence. We specialise in designing spaces that enhance operational efficiency while maintaining environmental responsibility. Our experience with BREEAM standards and industrial clients ensures technically robust solutions that exceed functional expectations.
Sustainable Design
Environmental consciousness underpins all our projects through a fabric-first approach. We specify low-carbon materials and energy-efficient systems while maintaining design integrity. Our commitment to the Architects Declare initiative drives continuous innovation in reducing embodied carbon and creating buildings with extended lifespans.
Listed Building Work
We specialise in sensitive interventions for historic structures while preserving architectural character. Our approach balances modern functionality with traditional materials and techniques. This expertise extends to securing planning permissions for challenging conservation area projects and navigating complex heritage regulations.
Extension Projects
We design extensions that enhance property functionality while maintaining aesthetic coherence. Our solutions address spatial flow, natural light integration, and contextual harmony. From contemporary kitchen extensions to multi-level additions, each project benefits from our technical expertise in structural integration and planning negotiations.
People
Chris Mackenzie
Founder, Director
With over 20 years' experience, Chris founded Designscape in 2005 following roles at Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios. His expertise spans complex residential and commercial projects, particularly in sensitive contexts. He leads design strategy and maintains client relationships across diverse architectural commissions.
Spencer Back
Director
Spencer joined Designscape in 2010 after working with Foggo Associates and Angus Meek Architects. He specialises in contemporary extensions and sustainable building solutions. His leadership ensures technical excellence and innovation across both residential and commercial projects.
James Palmer
Architect
James brings expertise in listed building conservation and historic structures to the team. He manages projects requiring detailed understanding of traditional construction methods while integrating modern design elements for heritage contexts.
Max Stembridge
Architect
Max focuses on commercial projects and large-scale residential developments. His experience includes agricultural buildings and equestrian facilities, ensuring functional requirements are met without compromising design quality.
Thomas Harvey
Architectural Assistant
Thomas supports project teams with technical documentation and design development. His emerging expertise spans both residential extensions and new build projects, contributing to the practice's collaborative culture.
Questions
What areas do you serve?
We primarily serve Bath, Bristol, the Cotswolds, and the South West, with projects across the UK including London.
What types of projects do you handle?
We work on residential and commercial projects, including new builds, extensions, barn conversions, and listed buildings.
Can you help with planning permission challenges?
Yes, we have extensive experience securing approvals for complex projects in conservation areas and green belt locations.
Do you offer sustainable design solutions?
Sustainability is core to our practice. We implement fabric-first approaches and low-carbon material choices across all projects.
What architectural awards have you won?
Our practice has received multiple RIBA, LABC, and RICS awards for excellence in residential and commercial architecture.
