Business Details
31 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Design Services in Kew
Reading + West is a design-led architectural practice established in 1995 by Gary Reading and Ian West. Our philosophy centres on merging originality with practicality to create contemporary buildings and interiors that prioritise honesty in materials and construction methods. With over 25 years of experience, we specialise in navigating complex planning constraints, particularly in conservation areas and listed buildings, as demonstrated in projects like Kew House and Hampstead House. Our collaborative approach ensures each project benefits from tailored solutions, combining modern aesthetics with functional design. We have completed over 100 projects for private clients, developers, and organisations, maintaining a reputation for excellence in both residential and commercial architecture.Our teams expertise extends to full-service delivery, from initial design consultations to contract administration, ensuring seamless execution of client visions. Client testimonials highlight our ability to transform spaces while adhering to budgets and exceeding expectations. Our work has been featured in RIBA reviews and industry publications, underscoring our commitment to design excellence. We pride ourselves on fostering long-term relationships through transparent communication and innovative problem-solving, making us a trusted partner for architectural challenges across the UK.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Design
Interior Refurbishment
Planning Consultation
Sustainable Design
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- We have over 25 years of experience in architectural design and planning approvals.
- Our team specialises in sensitive conservation area and listed building projects.
- We provide end-to-end services from concept design to contract administration.
- Our designs prioritise sustainability and modern material honesty.
- We maintain long-term client relationships through transparent communication and innovation.
What people say
Contemporary house we feel proud of
Enjoyable experience
Highly professional
Creative flair
Delight and surprise
Services
Residential Architecture
We create contemporary residential spaces tailored to client needs while respecting historical contexts. Our expertise includes extensions, basement conversions, and full renovations in conservation areas. Projects like Kew House demonstrate our ability to blend modern aesthetics with period properties, ensuring compliance with strict planning regulations.
Commercial Design
Our commercial projects combine functionality with striking visual design for spaces like retail units and office developments. We focus on maximising usability while adhering to urban planning requirements, as seen in schemes such as Shaftesbury Works. Each project benefits from our attention to material honesty and construction detail.
Interior Refurbishment
We transform interiors with bespoke solutions that enhance livability and efficiency. Services include kitchen and bathroom upgrades, bespoke joinery, and lighting design. Our work at Hampstead House exemplifies how we integrate modern comforts with existing architectural features to create cohesive living environments.
Planning Consultation
We specialise in securing planning approvals for complex projects in restricted zones. Our team negotiates with local authorities to achieve compliant yet innovative designs, as demonstrated by our success in obtaining consent for contemporary extensions to listed buildings like Henley Farm House.
Sustainable Design
Our approach incorporates energy-efficient systems and materials, such as ground-source heat pumps at Henley Farm House. We balance environmental considerations with aesthetic goals, ensuring modern sustainability practices align with each projects unique requirements and heritage constraints.
People
Gary Reading
Co-Founder & Architect
Gary Reading co-founded Reading + West in 1995 with a focus on modern architectural principles. He brings over 25 years of experience in residential and commercial projects, specialising in conservation-sensitive designs. His leadership emphasises collaborative client relationships and innovative problem-solving.
Ian West
Co-Founder & Architect
Ian West co-established Reading + West, contributing expertise in navigating complex planning processes. With a career spanning decades, he has led numerous award-winning projects, including high-profile renovations in Londons conservation areas. His approach prioritises material honesty and functional modernity.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We focus on residential and commercial design, interior refurbishments, planning consultations, and sustainable architecture, particularly in conservation areas.
How do you handle planning permission challenges?
Our team has extensive experience negotiating with planners to secure approvals for complex projects, balancing modern design with regulatory requirements.
Can you work on listed buildings?
Yes, we specialise in sensitive renovations of listed properties, maintaining historical integrity while introducing contemporary improvements.
What areas do you serve?
Primarily London and surrounding regions, with a focus on conservation areas like Kew and Henley-on-Thames.
How do you ensure project budgets are met?
We provide transparent cost management throughout projects, as demonstrated by client testimonials highlighting successful budget adherence.
How can I initiate a project?
Contact us for a free initial consultation to discuss your vision and receive tailored architectural advice.
