Business Details
35 Years
experience
Sustainable Architecture in Harmony with Nature
Mador Architects is a practice deeply committed to creating architecture that harmonises with natural landscapes. Established in 1991 by Charles Mador, our work prioritises environmental consciousness and the use of local materials. We specialise in designing timeless, contemporary spaces that evolve with their surroundings and occupants. Our portfolio includes the restoration of historic buildings such as Arthog Barns in Snowdonia and Tremlett Mews in London. We maintain close client relationships to ensure projects reflect individual needs while respecting ecological contexts.Our principal, Charles Mador, founded The Ark Snowdonia, a conservation charity that informs our practice's ethos. Associate Lara Karady oversees project management for developments like La Cazine Resort in France, while Geraldine Holland brings expertise in landscape integration and water-architecture relationships. Our work spans rural and urban environments across the UK and Europe, focusing on sustainable design that endures across generations.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Landscape Integration
Historic Restoration
Eco-Friendly Design
Conservation Projects
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We integrate architecture seamlessly with natural landscapes
- Our practice has operated since 1991 with proven expertise
- We use locally-sourced, natural materials in all projects
- Our principal founded The Ark Snowdonia conservation charity
- We maintain direct client relationships throughout projects
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable architecture creates energy-efficient buildings that complement natural environments. We prioritise local materials and passive design principles to reduce environmental impact while maintaining aesthetic integrity. Projects incorporate renewable energy systems and water conservation strategies tailored to each site's unique ecology.
Landscape Integration
We design buildings that become extensions of their surroundings through careful site analysis and ecological consideration. Our approach preserves existing vegetation, utilises natural topography, and creates visual continuity between built and natural elements. This ensures structures enhance rather than disrupt their environments.
Historic Restoration
Specialising in historic building conservation, we restore architectural heritage while introducing modern functionality. Our work at Arthog Barns and Tremlett Mews demonstrates expertise in preserving original character while implementing contemporary living standards through sensitive material selection and structural adaptation.
Eco-Friendly Design
Our eco-friendly designs incorporate sustainable materials, passive heating/cooling systems, and low-impact construction methods. We prioritise lifecycle sustainability through material sourcing, energy efficiency, and waste reduction strategies that align with global environmental standards while maintaining architectural excellence.
Conservation Projects
Through The Ark Snowdonia charity, we implement habitat restoration and biodiversity enhancement initiatives. Our conservation work combines architectural expertise with ecological science to create spaces that support wildlife while maintaining functional human environments through strategic land management and rewilding techniques.
People
Charles Mador
Principal & Founder
BArch RIBA ARB qualified architect with over 40 years' experience. Founded Mador Architects in 1991 after studying at Carlton University and the Architectural Association. Established The Ark Snowdonia charity to promote ecological restoration in Welsh uplands.
Lara Karady
Associate
RIBA Part I qualified architect with 12 years' experience at Mador Architects. Manages project teams and oversees developments including La Cazine Resort in France. Specialises in ecological design and sustainable material application across diverse project scales.
Geraldine Holland
Associate
Architect with decade-long expertise in landscape integration and water-architecture relationships. Former lecturer at leading design institutions, with experience managing large-scale public sector projects focused on environmental sustainability and community engagement across UK and international contexts.
Questions
What architectural style does Mador Architects specialise in?
We focus on contemporary designs that harmonise with natural landscapes. Our work combines modern aesthetics with traditional materials, prioritising environmental integration over stylistic trends.
Do you work on listed building renovations?
Yes, we specialise in historic restoration projects. Our experience includes transforming protected structures like Arthog Barns while maintaining heritage integrity and introducing modern functionality.
What sustainability features do you incorporate?
We use local materials, passive solar design, and renewable energy systems. Our approach includes rainwater harvesting, natural ventilation, and habitat creation to ensure minimal environmental impact.
Can you work on international projects?
Yes, we've completed projects in France and the UK. Our experience with cross-border regulations and local material sourcing enables effective delivery of international architectural commissions.
How does The Ark Snowdonia relate to your practice?
The Ark is our founder's conservation charity that directly influences our architectural approach. We apply its ecological principles to create buildings that support biodiversity and environmental restoration.
