Business Details
Award-Winning Architectural Services in Somerset
We are an award-winning architectural and design practice based in Somerset, dedicated to delivering innovative and sustainable solutions for new-build and refurbishment projects. Our expertise extends to listed buildings and conservation work, serving a diverse range of clients across Somerset and the South West. With a team of experienced architects, designers, and technicians, we prioritise listening to client needs, offering tailored advice from project inception to completion. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our Local Authority Building Control Administration Award and our detailed approach to Building Regulations compliance. We specialise in maximising space and natural light, creating contemporary or traditional designs that respect existing structures.Our services include planning advice, measured surveys, contract administration, and expert witness support, ensuring comprehensive coverage of architectural needs. We hold strong relationships with local contractors and authorities, facilitating smooth project execution. Sustainability remains central to our practice, influenced by our director's training at the Centre for Alternative Technology. Clients benefit from free initial consultations to assess project viability, supported by our technical expertise and client-focused ethos.
Services
Building Design
Planning Advice
Construction Advice
Contract Administration
Measured Survey
Building Regulations
Party Wall Surveyors
Expert Witness
Highlights and features
- We offer 15+ years of combined experience in residential and commercial architecture.
- Our team includes RIBA-chartered architects with expertise in conservation and sustainability.
- We provide end-to-end project management from planning to construction completion.
- Our practice holds specialist awards for Building Regulations compliance excellence.
- We maintain strong local authority and contractor relationships for efficient project delivery.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- Local Authority Building Control Administration Award
Services
Building Design
We create tailored architectural designs for new builds and extensions, balancing contemporary and traditional aesthetics. Our approach maximises natural light and space efficiency while respecting existing structures. Projects range from bespoke homes to commercial developments, ensuring compliance with planning and building regulations.
Planning Advice
Our team provides strategic planning guidance, including pre-application assessments and design statements. We navigate local authority requirements to enhance approval chances, offering cost-effective viability assessments. Services cover residential, commercial, and conservation projects across Somerset and the South West.
Building Regulations
We ensure full compliance with evolving Building Regulations through detailed technical drawings and liaison with inspectors. Our award-winning submissions exceed minimum standards, covering energy efficiency, accessibility, and structural safety. Clients benefit from our strong relationships with local authorities and private inspectors.
Conservation Projects
Specialist conservation services for listed buildings and historic sites, combining modern functionality with heritage preservation. Our expertise includes sympathetic material selection and adherence to conservation area guidelines, ensuring projects meet both legal requirements and aesthetic integrity.
Contract Administration
Comprehensive contract administration from tender documentation to site inspections. We coordinate with contractors to ensure timely, budget-conscious delivery, chairing meetings and certifying payments. This service is particularly valuable for medium-to-large projects requiring expert oversight.
People
Oliver Hill
Director
RIBA Director with expertise in sustainable architecture. Qualified in 2018 after studies at University of Plymouth and Centre for Alternative Technology. Oversees project delivery from concept to completion, specialising in housing developments and equestrian facilities.
James Olward
Associate Director
RIBA Chartered Architect specialising in residential projects. Qualified in 2022 with a Masters from UWE Bristol. Manages project resourcing and technology, bringing expertise in acoustics and new build homes.
Steve Reading
Consultant Architect
Experienced architect with 35+ years in corporate and private practice. Specialises in large-scale retail and housing developments. Provides strategic oversight for complex projects requiring regulatory analysis and delivery solutions.
Joji Mathew
Senior Architectural Technician
Senior technician with 25+ years' experience in planning and building regulations. Joined in 2016 after roles in India and the Middle East. Expertise in commercial and residential projects, ensuring technical compliance and practical construction solutions.
Wendy Wilkins
Office Administrator
Long-serving administrator managing client communications and office operations. Acts as primary liaison for new enquiries, providing organisational support to ensure smooth project coordination and client service delivery.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer in Somerset?
We provide building design, planning advice, construction consultancy, conservation projects, and contract administration across residential, commercial, and heritage sectors.
How do you handle listed building projects?
Our specialists combine heritage preservation with modern functionality, ensuring compliance with conservation regulations while meeting client needs through sympathetic material and design choices.
Can you assist with Building Regulations compliance?
Yes, we prepare detailed technical drawings and liaise with inspectors to ensure full compliance, exceeding minimum standards for energy efficiency and structural safety.
What areas do you cover?
Primarily Somerset and the wider South West region, including Bath, Bristol, and surrounding counties for both urban and rural projects.
Do you offer free initial consultations?
Yes, we provide free first consultations to assess project viability, discuss planning implications, and determine the best approach for your architectural requirements.
How are project fees determined?
Fees depend on project scope and complexity, agreed during initial consultations. We provide transparent cost breakdowns covering design, planning, and construction phases as outlined in our service agreement.
