Business Details
Expert Architectural Services in Bicester, Oxfordshire
Ora Design is a small independent architectural practice based near Bicester, delivering comprehensive architectural services across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and the home counties. With over 20 years' professional experience, the practice specialises in residential projects including self-builds, loft conversions, barn conversions, home extensions, eco-friendly buildings, and conservation projects. Our approach combines technical expertise with creative design, offering feasibility studies, detailed architectural drawings, and project management support.We prioritise close client collaboration, producing detailed construction documentation to ensure successful project delivery. Our work incorporates modern construction methods like timber framing, SIPS, and ICF systems while maintaining traditional detailing expertise. The practice is led by Ian Shirvell MCIAT, whose career spans prestigious RIBA-registered practices and notable projects including listed buildings, educational facilities, and large-scale residential developments.
Services
Self Build
Loft Conversion
Barn Conversion
Home Extension
Eco-Friendly Design
Conservation Projects
CAD Training
Highlights and features
- 20+ years' experience in architectural design and project management
- Specialist expertise in listed building conservation and modern construction methods
- Comprehensive service from feasibility studies to construction detailing
- Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) accredited professional
- Proven track record with complex planning applications and regulatory approvals
Associations and certifications
- Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists
What people say
Excellent service
High standard
Responsive
Innovational ideas
Cost effective
Services
Self Build
We provide tailored architectural support for self-build projects, from initial concept to construction drawings. Our service includes feasibility studies, planning applications, and detailed technical specifications. With expertise in modern construction methods and traditional detailing, we help clients realise their vision while ensuring regulatory compliance and buildability.
Barn Conversion
Specialist conversion of barns and historic buildings into modern living spaces. Our service covers feasibility assessment, planning consent applications, and detailed construction documentation. We combine conservation expertise with contemporary design to create functional spaces that respect original architectural features while meeting modern living standards and building regulations.
Eco-Friendly Design
Design of energy-efficient buildings using modern materials and construction systems. We specialise in timber framing, SIPS, and ICF systems to create low-energy homes. Our approach integrates sustainable principles with practical considerations, providing detailed thermal performance calculations and construction details that meet current environmental standards and reduce long-term running costs.
Conservation Projects
Expert architectural services for listed buildings and historic structures. We prepare detailed conservation reports, statutory applications, and construction drawings that maintain historical integrity. Our expertise includes working with traditional materials, resolving complex planning conditions, and balancing modern functionality with preservation requirements for churches, cottages, and period properties.
Home Extension
Design and technical support for residential extensions including kitchen, living space, and bedroom expansions. We offer feasibility studies, planning applications, and building regulation drawings. Our service ensures seamless integration with existing structures, providing detailed construction documentation to manage costs and minimise disruption during the building process.
People
Ian Shirvell
Chartered Architectural Technologist
MCIAT Chartered Architectural Technologist with 20+ years' experience in residential and commercial projects. Former associate at RIBA practices, specialising in conservation, eco-design, and complex planning applications. Holds HNC in Building Studies and NVQ3 in Carpentry.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential projects including self-builds, loft conversions, barn conversions, home extensions, eco-friendly buildings, and conservation projects for listed structures across Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire.
How experienced is your team?
Ian Shirvell MCIAT has over 20 years' experience working with prestigious RIBA practices on projects ranging from care homes to Oxford University buildings, with specialist expertise in planning applications and construction detailing.
What construction methods do you use?
We work with modern systems including timber framing, structurally insulated panels (SIPS), and insulated concrete forms (ICF), alongside traditional construction techniques for heritage and new build projects.
Can you help with planning applications?
Yes, we prepare full planning application packages including design statements and condition resolutions, with proven success in contentious cases and listed building consents.
What areas do you cover?
Primarily Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire, with projects extending to the wider Home Counties region and select national commissions for specialist conservation work.
How are your fees structured?
Fees are either hourly rated for specific services or fixed percentage-based (8-12%) on estimated build costs, broken into project stages with transparent cost allocation.
