Business Details
34 Years
experience
Architectural Design Services Sussex
L A Architects is a distinguished architectural practice with three decades of experience designing inspiring buildings and spaces. Founded in 1992, we prioritise human-centric design, blending functionality with aesthetic excellence across sports, arts, leisure, and urban regeneration projects. Our team, led by founding directors Mike Lawless and Elizabeth Adams, combines technical expertise with creative vision to deliver solutions tailored to each client's unique needs. We are committed to sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation, as evidenced by our award-winning projects like the Royal Automobile Club Family Facility and Glass Mill Leisure Centre.With a portfolio spanning the UK and international collaborations, we approach every project with rigorous attention to detail and a deep respect for environmental harmony. Our accolades, including LABC Building Excellence Awards and RIBA recognitions, reflect our dedication to architectural excellence. We believe architecture should evoke joy and enhance human experiences, a philosophy rooted in our 30-year legacy of thoughtful design.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Master Planning
Leisure Consultancy
Accessibility Design
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- 30 years of specialist experience in sports and leisure architecture
- Founding directors personally oversee every project
- Award-winning portfolio including LABC and RIBA winners
- Integrated approach to sustainability and inclusivity
- Proven expertise in complex international projects
What people say
Exceeded expectations
Professional team
Innovative solutions
Award-winning quality
Excellent communication
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service creates functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces tailored to client needs. Specialising in sports and leisure facilities, we combine technical expertise with creative vision to deliver sustainable, award-winning structures. From concept to completion, our 30-year experience ensures buildings that inspire excellence and enhance community experiences through thoughtful design.
Interior Design
Interior design solutions focus on human-centric environments that balance form and function. We craft spaces that promote well-being and usability, particularly in sports and public buildings. Our approach integrates accessibility considerations with aesthetic elements, creating interiors that complement our architectural projects while maintaining distinct identity and purpose.
Master Planning
Master planning services create cohesive development strategies for large-scale projects. We specialise in integrating sports facilities within urban contexts, ensuring sustainable growth and community benefit. Our expertise extends to international projects, delivering comprehensive plans that balance environmental considerations with functional requirements for long-term viability.
Leisure Consultancy
Leisure consultancy provides expert guidance on sports and recreational facility development. We advise on optimal layouts, equipment integration, and operational efficiency for diverse projects. Our team's deep sector knowledge, demonstrated through award-winning centres nationwide, ensures facilities that meet both user needs and governing body standards.
Accessibility Design
Accessibility design ensures buildings accommodate all users equally. Led by specialist consultant Peter Joyce, our approach exceeds regulatory requirements through empathetic, practical solutions. We incorporate universal design principles across projects, creating environments that welcome diverse abilities while maintaining architectural integrity and functionality.
People
Michael David Llewellyn Lawless
Founder/Director
Co-founder with 30 years' experience in sports and leisure architecture. Specialises in combining Japanese design principles with Western functionality. RIBA award judge and former advisor to Sport England. Holds leadership roles in multiple international projects.
Elizabeth Adams
Founder
Co-founder responsible for financial management and business strategy. Oversees international operations including Swedish subsidiary LA Fit Box. Combines architectural insight with commercial expertise to ensure project viability and organisational stability across complex developments.
Sandy Scott
Project Director
Project Director with 23 years' experience delivering innovative sports and arts facilities. Led award-winning projects like Hengrove Park Leisure Centre. Specialises in translating creative concepts into buildable solutions while maintaining design integrity throughout construction phases.
Leigh Pullan
Project Director
Experienced director focused on technical excellence in large-scale sports facilities. Instrumental in delivering Glass Mill and Haven Point Leisure Centres. Champions BIM implementation and detailed specification processes to ensure high-quality outcomes meeting strict regulatory requirements.
Andrew Archibald
Associate
Technical specialist with expertise in pool and sports building construction. Provides client design advisory services while managing complex procurement processes. Combines practical knowledge with strategic oversight to deliver technically challenging projects within budgetary constraints.
Questions
What architectural specialisms does LA Architects offer?
We specialise in sports, arts, leisure, and community buildings with 30 years' experience creating award-winning facilities across the UK and internationally.
How does LA Architects approach sustainability?
Our approach prioritises environmental harmony through material selection, energy efficiency, and designs that work with natural surroundings rather than against them.
Can you handle complex international projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience managing multi-million-pound international projects while maintaining the same rigorous attention to detail as local commissions.
What project delivery methodology do you use?
We employ traditional and design & build procurement methods, adapting our approach to each client's specific requirements and project constraints.
How do you ensure accessibility in designs?
Led by specialist consultant Peter Joyce, we implement universal design principles that exceed regulatory standards through empathetic, practical solutions.
Who leads projects at LA Architects?
All projects are directed by either Mike Lawless or Elizabeth Adams, with dedicated associates and project directors managing day-to-day delivery.
