Business Details
10 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Services in Hitchin & Cheltenham
Established in 2016, CROE Architects is a RIBA Chartered practice with studios in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, and Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. Our team of experienced architects and designers specialises in delivering tailored residential and commercial projects across the Home Counties, Cotswolds, London, and beyond. We prioritise client collaboration, blending creative vision with technical expertise to transform aspirations into functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces. Our services span the full RIBA project lifecycle, from initial brief development to on-site construction management. With over 40 years of combined experience, founders Joe Reader and Craig Humber lead a practice that values innovation, practicality, and sustainable design solutions.We utilise advanced software like Revit and AutoCAD to produce detailed architectural visualisations and technical documentation. Our approach balances budgetary constraints with design excellence, ensuring projects meet both regulatory requirements and client expectations. We maintain a small team structure to guarantee personalised service while retaining the capability to handle projects of all scales. Our portfolio includes heritage restorations, modern residential developments, and commercial conversions, reflecting our adaptability across sectors. Committed to continuous professional development, we stay at the forefront of architectural trends and construction methodologies to deliver forward-thinking solutions.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Architecture
Heritage & Listed Buildings
Design & Build Services
Planning Applications
Technical Design
Construction Management
3D Visualisations
Feasibility Studies
BIM Modelling
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years combined experience in residential and commercial architecture.
- Our team provides RIBA Chartered services across all project stages.
- We utilise Revit and AutoCAD for precise technical documentation and visualisations.
- Our small team structure ensures personalised client service and direct access.
- We specialise in heritage projects requiring planning and conservation approvals.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
Services
Residential Architecture
Creating tailored residential solutions from new builds to extensions. Our approach combines spatial innovation with practical functionality, ensuring homes reflect individual client needs while complying with planning regulations. We specialise in modernising period properties and maximising space efficiency in contemporary developments.
Commercial Architecture
Delivering commercial projects including retail, office, and industrial developments. We focus on creating functional spaces that enhance business operations while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Our experience spans leisure facilities, mixed-use developments, and adaptive re-use of existing structures.
Heritage & Listed Buildings
Specialist expertise in heritage architecture requiring planning authority and English Heritage approvals. We preserve historical integrity while implementing modern upgrades through careful material selection and traditional construction techniques adapted to contemporary standards.
Design & Build Services
Offering end-to-end project delivery from concept to completion. Our integrated approach ensures seamless coordination between design and construction phases, maintaining budget control while delivering high-quality results through established contractor partnerships.
Technical Design
Producing detailed technical drawings and specifications for building regulations compliance. Using Revit and AutoCAD software, we create comprehensive documentation packages that facilitate accurate cost estimation and streamline the construction process for contractors.
People
Joe Reader
Co-Founder
BA (hons), DipArch with extensive experience in residential and commercial projects. Specialises in project management and planning law compliance, overseeing developments from concept to site implementation.
Craig Humber
Co-Founder
BA (hons), DipArch bringing construction industry expertise from family businesses. Focuses on practical design solutions and buildability, with experience across residential, industrial, and leisure sectors.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full architectural services including residential and commercial design, heritage projects, planning applications, technical design documentation, and construction management across RIBA stages 0-6.
How are your fees structured?
Fees are typically calculated as a percentage of construction costs, adjusted for project complexity. We offer fixed fees per RIBA stage with transparent breakdowns of pre-planning, post-planning, and on-site costs.
Do you handle listed building projects?
Yes, we specialise in heritage and listed building projects requiring planning authority and conservation team approvals, with extensive experience in Cotswolds and Home Counties protected properties.
What areas do you cover?
Based in Hitchin and Cheltenham, we work throughout Hertfordshire, Gloucestershire, Cotswolds, London, and surrounding regions, with occasional projects further afield.
How do you use architectural technology?
We utilise Revit for 3D modelling and AutoCAD for heritage projects, integrating visualisation software to help clients understand spatial relationships and construction details before work begins.
Can you manage full construction projects?
Yes, we offer complete RIBA-stage services from initial brief to project completion, including contract administration, site inspections, and contractor coordination to ensure design integrity throughout construction.
