Business Details
Award-Winning Architectural Design in Manchester
O M I Architects is a leading design-led architecture practice based in Salford, Manchester, with over two decades of experience delivering innovative and award-winning projects across the UK. As a RIBA Chartered Practice and certified B Corp, we specialise in creating architecture that balances aesthetic excellence with functional integrity, working across sectors including heritage conservation, residential development, commercial spaces, and community infrastructure. Our team has earned 13 national and regional RIBA Awards, reflecting our commitment to design excellence and sustainable practices.We prioritise attention to detail and client collaboration, ensuring every project meets the unique needs of its users and environment. Our expertise extends to complex heritage schemes involving Grade I and II* Listed buildings, where we combine modern innovation with historical sensitivity. With a focus on social responsibility, we are also certified by Planet Mark for environmental accountability. Our studio, located in a RIBA Award-winning Victorian swimming pool conversion, serves as a hub for creative industries and architectural innovation.
Services
Architectural Design
Heritage Conservation
Residential Development
Sustainable Architecture
Commercial Projects
Community Infrastructure
Urban Regeneration
Adaptive Reuse
Highlights and features
- We have won 13 national and regional RIBA Awards for design excellence
- Our team specialises in complex heritage schemes involving Grade I Listed buildings
- We are a certified B Corp committed to environmental and social responsibility
- Our studio operates from a RIBA Award-winning Victorian swimming pool conversion
- We hold Planet Mark Certification for annual environmental accountability
Associations and certifications
- RIBA Chartered Practice
- B Corp
- Planet Mark Certification
Services
Architectural Design
O M I Architects creates innovative architectural solutions for residential, commercial, and community projects. Our approach combines aesthetic excellence with functional requirements, ensuring spaces meet user needs while respecting environmental and historical contexts. We deliver projects from concept to completion.
Heritage Conservation
Specialising in Grade I and II* Listed buildings, we restore and adapt historic structures while maintaining their integrity. Recent projects include Manresa House and Boundary Lane, where modern functionality integrates seamlessly with historical elements through meticulous research and craftsmanship.
Sustainable Architecture
As a Planet Mark-certified practice, we incorporate sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and circular economy principles. Our Havelock project achieved BREEAM Outstanding certification, demonstrating leadership in retrofitting buildings for environmental performance across the UK.
Urban Regeneration
We revitalise urban areas through mixed-use developments and public spaces. Projects like Clippers Quay and The Old Library transform underutilised sites into vibrant communities, balancing commercial viability with social and environmental responsibility in Manchester and Salford.
Adaptive Reuse
O M I Architects specialises in converting existing structures for new uses, such as transforming industrial sites into creative workspaces. Our work on 31 Booth Street and Dukes 92 demonstrates how adaptive reuse preserves architectural heritage while meeting modern functional demands sustainably.
People
Adam Gray
Associate Director
With over 15 years at O M I Architects, Adam leads complex heritage projects, including Manresa House. His expertise in historic building conservation has earned multiple RIBA Awards, focusing on balancing modern functionality with architectural preservation.
Nick Berry
Director
Nick oversees O M I Architects's strategic direction and design excellence. As a RIBA-appointed reviewer, he champions sustainable architecture and sits on Salford's Design Review Forum, ensuring high standards in urban development projects.
Philip Etchells
Associate Director
Philip specialises in residential and community projects, leading schemes like Havelock and Palatine Road. His focus on inclusive design has won Civic Trust and Manchester Society of Architects awards for socially impactful architecture.
Andy James
Director
Andy directs commercial and cultural projects, including Band on the Wall and The National Football Museum. His work on adaptive reuse has been shortlisted for RIBA and British Council for Offices Awards, demonstrating innovative design solutions.
Stuart McGrath
Associate Director
Stuart manages urban regeneration projects, including Clippers Quay and One Greengate. His expertise in large-scale developments combines sustainability with economic viability, delivering mixed-use spaces that enhance community engagement in Manchester and Salford.
Questions
What architectural services does OMI offer?
OMI provides architectural design, heritage conservation, residential and commercial development, urban regeneration, and adaptive reuse services across the UK.
Is OMI certified for sustainability practices?
Yes, we are B Corp certified and hold Planet Mark Certification for annual environmental accountability.
What notable awards has OMI won?
We have won 13 RIBA Awards, including the Brick Development Association Small Housing Development Award and Civic Trust Awards.
Does OMI work on heritage projects?
Yes, we specialise in complex heritage schemes involving Grade I and II* Listed buildings like Manresa House and Boundary Lane.
Where is OMI's studio located?
Our studio is in a RIBA Award-winning Victorian swimming pool conversion at 31 Blackfriars Road, Salford, Manchester.
