Business Details
Your Trusted Guildford Architects for Residential & Education Projects
We are a team of RIBA chartered architects dedicated to creating thoughtful, client-focused designs that harmonise with their surroundings. Our directors bring extensive expertise in residential, education, and heritage projects, combining modern innovation with conservation principles. With decades of collective experience, including work on Listed Buildings and the Houses of Parliament, we prioritise understanding client needs to deliver functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces. Our collaborative approach involves planners, consultants, and builders to ensure successful outcomes. We specialise in navigating complex planning processes for challenging sites while maintaining sensitivity to historical contexts. Our commitment to quality extends from initial concept development through construction administration, ensuring every detail aligns with the original vision.Having worked with prestigious firms and institutions, we apply rigorous technical knowledge and creative problem-solving to every project. Whether designing new-build homes or restoring heritage sites, we focus on creating humane, contextually appropriate spaces that stand the test of time. Our track record demonstrates consistent delivery of award-winning projects that exceed client expectations. This combination of technical excellence, conservation expertise, and client-centric service establishes us as trusted architectural partners in Guildford and beyond.
Services
Concept and Planning
Detail Design
Construction Management
Residential Projects
Education Architecture
Highlights and features
- We have RIBA chartered architects with conservation accreditation
- Our team includes former Parliament heritage specialists
- We specialise in challenging planning applications for Listed Buildings
- We offer full project management from concept to completion
- Our directors have combined experience across 40+ years
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
Services
Concept and Planning
We develop tailored architectural concepts through client consultation and site analysis. Our team prepares detailed planning applications for challenging locations including Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings. With proven success in securing permissions for complex sites, we ensure designs meet both regulatory requirements and client aspirations while considering long-term functionality.
Detail Design
We produce comprehensive construction documentation including technical drawings and material specifications. Our service coordinates specialist consultants and manages tender processes to ensure accurate project costing. From structural details to finish selections, we maintain design integrity throughout the technical development phase while ensuring compliance with building regulations and industry standards.
Construction Management
We oversee building contracts, conduct site inspections, and manage project variations during construction. Our team maintains quality control, verifies completed work for payment approval, and facilitates communication between all stakeholders. This ensures adherence to design specifications while maintaining positive relationships with contractors and clients throughout the build process.
Residential Projects
We design bespoke residential solutions ranging from new-build homes to property extensions. Our expertise includes modern interpretations of traditional materials, innovative use of space, and integration of contemporary elements in historic settings. Each project balances aesthetic appeal with practical living requirements while respecting local architectural character and conservation guidelines.
Education Architecture
We deliver educational facilities that combine functional requirements with inspiring environments. Our portfolio includes school masterplans, classroom refurbishments, and specialist facilities like music technology rooms. We focus on creating adaptable learning spaces that enhance educational outcomes while maintaining historical sensitivity in heritage buildings.
People
Heather Shepherd
Director
RIBA chartered architect with 20+ years' experience in residential and heritage projects. Specialises in conservation work and planning approvals for challenging sites. Holds a Cambridge architecture degree and conservation diploma.
James Donlon
Director
Award-winning architect with expertise in sustainable design and institutional projects. Former associate at Marcus Beale Architects. Holds a Master's degree in Architectural Studies from University College London.
Heather Sheridan
Director
RIBA Conservation Architect with experience in listed buildings and public heritage projects. Formerly worked on the Houses of Parliament restoration. Specialises in transforming historic spaces into functional modern buildings.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full architectural services including concept design, planning applications, technical drawings, and construction management for residential and education projects.
Do you specialise in historic building projects?
Yes, our team has extensive conservation expertise including work on Listed Buildings and heritage sites, with directors holding specialist RIBA conservation accreditation.
Can you help with planning permission for difficult sites?
Our directors have proven success securing planning approvals for challenging locations including Conservation Areas and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
How do you approach sustainability in design?
We integrate sustainable principles through material selection, energy-efficient design, and adaptive reuse of existing structures while maintaining architectural integrity.
What project sizes do you handle?
We work on projects ranging from small residential extensions to large-scale education masterplans and heritage restoration projects.
How involved are you during construction?
We provide full contract administration, regular site inspections, and change management to ensure design integrity and quality control throughout the building process.
