Business Details
Expert Conservation & Eco-Architecture Services
Established by Conrad A B Howard, a RIBA and IHBC-accredited conservation architect, DD Architects specialises in blending historic building preservation with sustainable eco-design. Our practice offers comprehensive architectural services, from initial feasibility studies to project completion, with a focus on listed buildings, conservation areas, and low-carbon construction. We utilise advanced presentation techniques to ensure planning authorities and clients fully understand proposed schemes, while our network of consultants ensures optimal project outcomes.Advocates of the 'No Win, No Fee' approach for certain projects, we prioritise client collaboration, transparent communication, and designs that harmonise with their surroundings. With expertise in Passivhaus standards and a commitment to materials with low embodied energy, we deliver solutions that balance heritage sensitivity with 21st-century functionality.
Services
Eco-Design Consultancy
Historic Building Consultancy
Full Architects Service
Passivhaus Design
Planning Advocacy
Highlights and features
- RIBA and IHBC-accredited conservation architects with specialist eco-design expertise
- 100% planning success rate for 'No Win, No Fee' projects
- Integrated 3D modelling and presentation techniques for clear scheme approval
- Extensive network of consultants including structural engineers and surveyors
- Advocates for low-embodied-energy materials and Passivhaus standards
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- IHBC
What people say
Highest standard of work
Responsive and timely
Expertise second to none
Enhanced listed building qualities
Navigated complex planning processes
Services
Eco-Design Consultancy
Our eco-design consultancy integrates low-carbon principles with practical living spaces. We assess renewable energy systems, non-toxic materials, and passive environmental controls to create energy-efficient buildings. Specialising in Passivhaus standards, we deliver designs that reduce heating requirements by up to 90% compared to conventional construction while maintaining aesthetic harmony with historic settings.
Historic Building Consultancy
As RIBA and IHBC-accredited specialists, we preserve architectural heritage through meticulous refurbishments. Our expertise covers listed building consents, conservation area projects, and adaptive reuse of historic structures. We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to ensure compliance with planning requirements while enhancing property functionality for contemporary use.
Full Architects Service
From concept to completion, our comprehensive service includes feasibility studies, planning applications, and construction oversight. We manage multidisciplinary teams of engineers and surveyors to deliver cohesive projects. Our 'golden thread' approach maintains design continuity throughout all stages, ensuring client visions translate seamlessly into built reality with minimal disruption.
No Win No Fee Planning
We offer a unique 'No Win No Fee' service for selected planning applications, reflecting confidence in our 100% success rate. This includes concept development, 3D visualisations, and submission preparation. Clients only pay survey costs unless planning permission is granted, reducing financial risk during the critical initial stages of project development.
Passivhaus Design
Specialising in Passivhaus-certified buildings, we create ultra-low energy homes requiring minimal heating. Our designs utilise advanced insulation, airtight construction, and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery. These structures achieve 80-90% energy savings compared to standard UK buildings while maintaining exceptional indoor air quality and thermal comfort for occupants.
People
Conrad A B Howard
Conservation Architect - Director
RIBA and IHBC-accredited conservation architect with 20+ years' experience in historic building preservation. Specialises in listed building consents and sustainable retrofit solutions. Holds a fourth Dan in Tae Kwon Do and applies martial arts discipline to architectural problem-solving.
Akmol Hamid
CAD Artist - Designer
Technical designer specialising in 3D architectural visualisations. Converts conceptual ideas into detailed digital models for planning submissions. Ensures accurate representation of design intent through advanced CAD techniques and photorealistic renderings.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in conservation architecture, eco-design, Passivhaus standards, and planning advocacy for listed buildings and conservation areas.
Do you offer a 'No Win No Fee' planning service?
Yes, we provide this service for selected projects, charging only if planning permission is granted. Terms depend on project complexity.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
We prioritise low-embodied-energy materials, passive solar design, and renewable energy systems. All projects consider lifecycle carbon footprint and energy efficiency.
Can you work with Grade II listed buildings?
Yes, we have extensive experience securing listed building consents and implementing sensitive renovations that preserve historic features while meeting modern needs.
What areas do you cover?
Primarily East Sussex and Brighton, with projects across the UK involving historic buildings and conservation areas.
