Business Details
19 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Barnstaple
Nigel Polkinghorne Architectural Services is a family-run architectural practice with over 40 years of combined experience, dedicated to transforming client visions into innovative, functional designs. Established in 2007, the practice has grown into a team of 12 professionals, renowned for delivering client-focused solutions across residential and commercial sectors. Their expertise spans new builds, barn conversions, extensions, and complex planning applications, with a track record of first-time approvals. The team prioritises collaboration, sustainability, and environmental harmony, utilising advanced CAD systems and 3D visualisations to ensure clarity and precision. With a deep understanding of local planning policies and a commitment to transparency, Nigel Polkinghorne Architectural Services guides clients through every stage, from initial consultation to project completion.Their approach combines technical excellence with a personal touch, ensuring tailored solutions that meet individual needs. Recognised for exceptional service, the practice has earned strong client loyalty and numerous recommendations. Based in Barnstaple, they serve clients within a 50-mile radius, including North Devon, Somerset, and Cornwall. Their work reflects a passion for architecture that balances creativity with practicality, creating timeless spaces that enhance their surroundings.
Services
Architectural Design
Barn Conversions
Planning Applications
Building Regulations
3D Visualisations
Feasibility Studies
Site Analysis
Commercial Design
Residential Extensions
Heritage Conservation
Details
- Year established: 2007
Highlights and features
- We have 17+ years of experience in residential and commercial architecture across North Devon.
- Our team includes chartered architectural technologists and specialists in heritage and sustainability.
- We guarantee a 98% success rate in first-time planning applications since 2007.
- Our 3D visualisations and virtual walkthroughs ensure complete design clarity before construction.
- We provide end-to-end project support, from feasibility studies to building control approval.
What people say
First-class service
Highly recommended
Approachable, friendly team
Successful planning applications
Efficient execution
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service creates tailored solutions for residential and commercial projects, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. We specialise in new builds, extensions, and conversions, ensuring each design complements its environment. With advanced CAD tools and 3D visualisations, we deliver precise, client-focused outcomes that meet regulatory standards while exceeding expectations.
Barn Conversions
We transform traditional barns into modern living spaces while preserving historical character. Our expertise includes structural assessments, planning permissions, and sustainable design adaptations. By integrating contemporary features with rustic elements, we create unique homes that respect heritage and meet modern living standards across North Devon and Cornwall.
Planning Applications
We manage end-to-end planning applications, from feasibility studies to council submissions. Our deep knowledge of local policies ensures efficient approvals for complex projects. With a 98% first-time success rate since 2007, we navigate regulatory challenges to secure permissions for residential and commercial developments.
Building Regulations
Our team prepares detailed technical drawings meeting UK building standards, covering structural safety, insulation, and accessibility. We coordinate with inspectors to ensure smooth approvals, managing documentation and on-site compliance checks to guarantee projects meet legal requirements without delays.
3D Visualisations
We use advanced 3D modelling to create realistic project previews, enabling informed decisions before construction. These visualisations clarify spatial relationships and material choices, helping clients visualise final outcomes and make adjustments early in the design process for optimal results.
People
Nigel Polkinghorne
Director & Head of Design
With over 40 years of architectural experience, Nigel founded NPAS in 2007 and specialises in barn conversions and new builds. He excels at creating bespoke designs that harmonise with North Devon's landscapes while securing successful planning permissions.
Debbie Polkinghorne
Director & Head of Planning
Debbie leads planning strategy with deep expertise in local policies, ensuring design compliance. Her focus on client collaboration and regulatory navigation has been instrumental in NPAS's high approval rates for complex development projects.
Darren Mayne
Chartered Architectural Technologist
Darren brings 17 years of experience in residential and commercial architecture, with SAP accreditation for sustainability assessments. His technical expertise ensures energy-efficient designs that meet modern building standards while maintaining aesthetic integrity.
Rick Gilroy
Chartered Architectural Technologist
Rick specialises in heritage conservation and listed building alterations, with a decade of experience across Devon and Cornwall. Currently pursuing an MSc in Building Conservation, he combines traditional techniques with modern solutions for sensitive architectural projects.
Alex Bailey
Architectural Designer
Alex focuses on bespoke residential design, leveraging her North Devon roots and seven years of practice in Bristol. She builds strong client relationships to translate visions into functional spaces, recently returning to the region to contribute to NPAS's growing portfolio.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential design, barn conversions, commercial buildings, planning applications, and heritage conservation projects.
Do you handle both small and large-scale projects?
Yes, we work on projects ranging from single extensions to large commercial developments across the South West.
How does your planning application process work?
We manage all stages, including site analysis, document preparation, and council liaison, to ensure first-time approvals.
Can you assist with 3D design visualisations?
Yes, we provide detailed 3D renderings and virtual walkthroughs to help visualise final designs pre-construction.
What areas do you cover from Barnstaple?
We primarily serve North Devon, Somerset, Exeter, and Cornwall within a 50-mile radius.
