Business Details
28 Years
experience
RIBA Chartered Architects in Derby Specialising in Conservation & Sustainable Design
Blair Gratton & Architects is a RIBA Chartered Practice based in Derby, dedicated to transforming architectural visions into reality with a focus on sustainability, conservation, and innovative design. With over 130 years of collective experience, our team specialises in residential, commercial, and heritage projects, offering tailored solutions from feasibility studies to on-site contract management. We prioritise collaboration with clients, leveraging our expertise in planning applications, building regulations, and conservation methodologies to deliver spaces that balance functionality with aesthetic excellence.Our commitment to sustainable architecture is demonstrated through projects exceeding thermal efficiency standards and the use of eco-friendly materials. As a practice, we adhere to the professional codes of the RIBA and Architects Registration Board, ensuring ethical standards and technical proficiency. Our long-standing relationships with local authorities and conservation officers enable seamless project approvals, while our team's deep understanding of historic buildings ensures sensitive yet forward-thinking outcomes.
Services
Conservation Architecture
Sustainable Design
Surveys and Inspections
Church Inspections
Heritage Projects
Residential Projects
Commercial Projects
Community Projects
Building Inspections
Planning Applications
Details
- Year established: 1998
Highlights and features
- We have over 130 years of combined experience in architectural design and conservation.
- Our practice is a RIBA Chartered Practice with strict adherence to professional standards.
- We offer free initial consultations to discuss your project requirements in person.
- Our services are tailored to meet specific client needs across diverse project types.
- We specialise in sustainable architecture exceeding current thermal efficiency regulations.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA Chartered Practice
Services
Conservation Architecture
Specialised conservation services for listed buildings, churches, and heritage sites. We conduct detailed surveys, prepare conservation reports, and manage restoration projects while maintaining historical integrity. Our team works closely with local authorities and conservation officers to secure necessary approvals and ensure compliance with RIBA conservation methodologies.
Sustainable Design
Innovative sustainable design solutions exceeding current thermal efficiency standards. We incorporate renewable materials, passive ventilation systems, and energy-efficient technologies into residential and commercial projects. Our approach balances environmental responsibility with functional design, creating spaces that reduce carbon footprints while meeting modern living requirements.
Church Inspections
Comprehensive church inspection services including quinquennial assessments and faculty applications. We provide expert advice on structural repairs, re-ordering, and conservation of religious buildings. Our director Simon Gratton serves as a Duty Architect for the Diocese of Derby, ensuring specialist knowledge of ecclesiastical requirements and approval processes.
Building Surveys
Detailed building surveys and inspections for residential and commercial properties. We identify structural issues, provide condition reports, and recommend remedial actions. Our surveys support planning applications, insurance claims, and conservation projects, delivered with technical precision and practical recommendations for property owners.
Planning Applications
End-to-end planning application support for residential, commercial, and heritage projects. We prepare detailed submissions, liaise with local authorities, and manage the approval process. Our expertise in conservation areas and listed building consent ensures compliance while achieving clients' architectural visions through strategic planning strategies.
People
Simon Gratton
Director & Conservation Architect
RIBA Chartered Architect with 26 years' experience in practice, specialising in conservation architecture. Qualified in 1998, he leads church inspections for the Diocese of Derby and manages complex heritage projects while maintaining professional standards through RIBA and ARB memberships.
John Gratton
Registered Architect
ARB-registered architect and RIBA member with 50 years' professional experience. Joined the practice in 1970, contributing extensive knowledge of technical design specifications across residential, commercial, and heritage sectors while maintaining adherence to architectural codes of conduct.
Ray Harlow
Senior Technician
Senior technician with over 50 years' experience in technical design specification. Joined William Blair & Partners in 1970, providing continuity in technical expertise across all sectors of architectural design while supporting the practice's commitment to quality and precision.
Questions
How do I determine if my building is listed?
Check Heritage England's 'Search the List' online database to verify listing status and grade for your property.
Do you work on commercial projects?
Yes, we handle commercial developments including schools, surgeries, and community buildings with architectural expertise.
Can you assist with sustainable home extensions?
We design energy-efficient extensions using sustainable materials and passive ventilation systems for modern eco-homes.
What conservation areas do you cover?
We work across Derbyshire, Dorset, and surrounding regions on heritage projects within designated conservation areas.
How do you approach church building projects?
Our director Simon Gratton serves as Diocesan Duty Architect, managing church inspections, repairs, and re-ordering projects with specialist knowledge.
Do you offer initial consultations?
Yes, we provide free initial consultations at our Derby office to discuss your architectural requirements over tea or coffee.
