Business Details
17 Years
experience
Award-Winning Sustainable Architecture in London
Established in 2009 by Fergus Feilden and Edmund Fowles, our practice has grown into an award-winning architectural studio rooted in London. Our approach combines rigorous academic research with hands-on experimentation, drawing inspiration from historic and vernacular architecture to create buildings that are contextually responsive and materially rich. We prioritise sustainability through low-tech design principles, utilising passive environmental strategies and low embodied carbon materials to reduce long-term environmental impact. Our portfolio spans cultural, educational, heritage, and residential projects, each characterised by a commitment to craftsmanship and social responsibility.With a team of experienced architects and collaborators, we deliver projects across the UK, maintaining direct engagement with construction processes to ensure quality and longevity. Recognised for our innovative approach, we have received multiple RIBA awards and been shortlisted for prestigious accolades such as the AR Emerging Awards. Our work with institutions like the Natural History Museum and Yorkshire Sculpture Park demonstrates our ability to transform spaces into enduring cultural assets.
Services
Cultural Architecture
Educational Buildings
Heritage Conservation
Commercial Projects
Residential Design
Masterplanning
Sustainable Design
Community Spaces
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We have delivered multiple RIBA award-winning projects since 2009
- Our low-tech philosophy reduces environmental impact through passive design
- Direct engagement with construction processes ensures quality control
- Specialised in transforming historic and sensitive sites with care
- Collaborative approach with clients and stakeholders from concept to completion
What people say
Award-winning
Innovative
Sustainable
Contextually responsive
Craftsmanship
Services
Cultural Architecture
We design transformative cultural spaces that enhance community engagement and artistic expression. Our projects at Tate Britain and Yorkshire Sculpture Park demonstrate our ability to create dynamic environments for art and heritage. By integrating sustainable materials and passive design strategies, we ensure these spaces remain functional and environmentally responsible for future generations.
Educational Buildings
Our educational projects prioritise flexible, inspiring learning environments. From Cambridge University's dining hall to primary school renovations, we combine natural materials with daylight optimisation to improve student wellbeing. Each design addresses specific pedagogical needs while maintaining long-term adaptability for evolving educational requirements.
Heritage Conservation
We specialise in sensitive restoration and adaptive reuse of historic structures. Our work at Carlisle Cathedral and Magdalene College demonstrates expertise in balancing modern functionality with original architectural integrity. We employ traditional craftsmanship alongside contemporary techniques to extend the lifespan of culturally significant buildings.
Sustainable Design
Our low-tech approach minimises environmental impact through passive design strategies. Projects like Black Robin Farm utilise local materials and natural ventilation systems to achieve carbon reduction targets. We integrate renewable energy solutions and prioritise material longevity to create buildings that remain sustainable throughout their lifecycle.
Community Spaces
We create inclusive public spaces that foster social interaction and environmental connection. The Urban Nature Project at the Natural History Museum exemplifies our ability to transform urban environments into biodiverse landscapes. Our designs prioritise accessibility and long-term community benefits through participatory design processes.
People
Fergus Feilden
Director
Co-founder with 15+ years' experience in complex architectural projects. Specialises in heritage conservation and sustainable design. Lectures at Sheffield University and serves on RIBA awards panels. Graduated from Cambridge and Royal College of Art.
Edmund Fowles
Director
Co-founder leading major educational and cultural projects. Directed the award-winning Homerton College dining hall and Natural History Museum gardens. External examiner at the Architectural Association. Graduated from Cambridge and AA School of Architecture.
Eleanor Hedley
Associate
Project lead for Homerton College dining hall and Urban Nature Project. Former member of Turner Prize-winning collective Assemble. Teaches at Architectural Association and Royal College of Art. Graduated from Cambridge and UCL.
Catija Christensson
Senior Architect
Leads Oxford University projects with expertise in historic building restoration. Previously worked on Tate Britain reorganisation and Stockholm City Library restoration. Graduated from Royal Danish Academy. Lectures at Kingston University.
Ruggero Corinti
Senior Architect
Specialises in cultural projects within historic contexts. Led Black Robin Farm development and Museum of London transformation. Graduated from Politecnico di Milano and Tongji University. Expert in sustainable heritage regeneration techniques.
Questions
What architectural styles does Feilden Fowles specialise in?
We focus on contextually responsive designs that blend modern functionality with historic sensitivity. Our work incorporates low-tech principles, sustainable materials, and passive environmental strategies tailored to each project's unique requirements.
Do you work on listed building projects?
Yes, we specialise in heritage conservation and adaptive reuse of historic buildings. Our experience includes projects at Grade I-listed sites like Carlisle Cathedral and Magdalene College, balancing preservation with modern functionality.
What sustainability certifications do your buildings achieve?
While we prioritise practical sustainability over certifications, our projects incorporate low embodied carbon materials, passive design strategies, and renewable energy integration to meet or exceed environmental standards.
Can you handle complex urban regeneration projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with urban regeneration schemes like the Camden Highline and Waterloo City Farm. Our approach prioritises community engagement and ecological enhancement alongside architectural innovation.
How do you involve clients in the design process?
We maintain continuous client collaboration through regular workshops and presentations. Our open studio culture encourages direct communication between project teams, clients, and stakeholders throughout all design phases.
What awards has Feilden Fowles won?
We've received multiple RIBA Awards including for Homerton College Dining Hall, shortlisted for AR Emerging Awards, and won regional accolades. Our projects have been featured in major architectural publications and exhibitions.
