Business Details
16 Years
experience
Award-Winning Sustainable Architects in Ilkley, West Yorkshire
Niche Design Architects was founded by Chris and Cathy Hunt to deliver exceptional architectural solutions prioritising sustainability and technical precision. With 40 years' combined experience across residential, commercial, and heritage projects, our RIBA-chartered practice serves clients in Yorkshire, specialising in conservation, low-energy design, and innovative spatial solutions. Our accolades reflect a commitment to creating functional, aesthetically refined spaces that align with modern environmental standards. We focus on preserving architectural integrity while enhancing usability through detailed planning and adherence to building regulations.By blending creativity with rigorous technical expertise, we transform diverse projectsfrom listed buildings to contemporary homesinto enduring assets for clients. Our team's academic and professional credentials, including AECB-certified retrofit qualifications, ensure robust sustainability credentials. Client collaboration remains central to our process, ensuring bespoke outcomes tailored to individual needs and locations across Yorkshire, from urban Leeds to rural Dales settings.
Services
House Extensions
Sustainable Design
Conservation Projects
Listed Building Refurbishments
Residential Renovations
Energy-Efficient Homes
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- 40 years' combined architectural experience in sustainability and conservation
- RIBA-chartered firm with awards for restoration and extension projects
- AECB-certified experts in energy-efficient retrofit solutions
- Personalised service for residential and commercial clients in Yorkshire
- Proven track record with listed buildings and complex planning applications
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- AECB
Services
Sustainable Architectural Design
Creating energy-efficient buildings using sustainable materials and passive design principles. Our approach reduces carbon footprints while maintaining aesthetic appeal and functionality. Projects include zero-carbon homes and retrofitting existing structures for improved thermal performance.
House Extensions
Designing seamless extensions that enhance living spaces while respecting original architecture. Specialising in contemporary and traditional styles suitable for terraced, semi-detached, and period properties across Yorkshire.
Conservation & Listed Buildings
Expertise in preserving historical integrity through sympathetic renovations and repairs. We navigate complex planning requirements to maintain architectural heritage value while updating buildings for modern usage standards.
Residential Renovations
Transforming interiors and exteriors to improve functionality and aesthetics. Services range from kitchen/bathroom upgrades to full-scale property overhauls with a focus on long-term durability and contemporary living needs.
Energy-Efficient Homes
Specialist retrofitting and new-build solutions to achieve ultra-low energy consumption. Implementing advanced insulation, air-tightness strategies, and renewable energy systems for reduced utility costs and environmental impact.
People
Chris Hunt
Principal Architect
With over 20 years' experience, Chris leads design projects and previously lectured at Nottingham Trent University. He specialises in planning approvals and sustainable urban developments, balancing technical expertise with creative vision.
Catherine Hunt
Senior Architect
A qualified AECB-certified retrofit specialist, Cathy focuses on energy-efficient renovations. Her background includes university projects and teaching, bringing academic rigour to residential and commercial sustainability solutions.
James Mumby
Lead Designer
With 20+ years in architecture, Jim oversees design excellence from concept to completion. His portfolio spans residential projects to large-scale theme park masterplanning, emphasising precise detailing and innovative spatial solutions.
Questions
What architectural services does Niche Design offer?
We specialise in sustainable design, house extensions, conservation projects, listed building refurbishments, residential renovations, and energy-efficient home solutions across Yorkshire.
How do you incorporate sustainability into your designs?
Our projects prioritise low-energy consumption, natural ventilation, and retrofitting existing buildings using AECB-certified methods to reduce environmental impact while maintaining functionality.
Can you work with listed buildings or conservation areas?
Yes—we have extensive experience with listed buildings and conservation zones, balancing heritage preservation with modern usability through expert planning approvals.
How does your client consultation process work?
We begin with a meeting to discuss your project's scope, budget, and planning considerations, followed by detailed design development and technical execution tailored to your needs.
Which areas do you serve?
We operate across Yorkshire, including Leeds, Bradford, Harrogate, Ilkley, Skipton, York, and surrounding rural areas like the Yorkshire Dales.
What credentials verify your architectural expertise?
We are RIBA-chartered architects with AECB-certified sustainability specialists on staff, alongside awards for innovative restoration and sustainable design solutions.
