Business Details
22 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architects in York
Mass Architecture is a dynamic design-led practice founded by Charlotte Harrison and Glen McGowan in 2004. Initially based in London, we relocated to York in 2009 and have since delivered diverse architectural projects across Yorkshire and the North. Our reputation for distinctive design has been recognised through multiple awards in both London and Yorkshire. We prioritise a collaborative and tailored approach, guided by a passionate team of architects and designers with extensive experience. Our philosophy centres on delivering exceptional design with a personal touch, ensuring every project is both functional and inspiring. We serve clients locally, regionally, and nationally, bringing creative solutions to every challenge.Our expertise spans commercial, community, residential, and historic sectors, with a particular focus on sensitive extensions, refurbishments, and adaptations of historic buildings. We combine contemporary design principles with conservation expertise to create architecture that leaves a lasting legacy. Our teams deep understanding of technical detailing and construction ensures seamless project execution from concept to completion. Client satisfaction is at the heart of our practice, reflected in long-standing relationships and repeat commissions.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Design
Historic Conservation
Community Projects
BNG Consultancy
Planning Applications
Technical Detailing
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 2004
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of combined experience in historic and contemporary architecture
- Our team holds specialist expertise in Listed Building conservation
- We provide tailored design solutions with a collaborative approach
- Our practice has earned multiple regional and national architectural awards
- We maintain transparent communication throughout every project phase
What people say
Professional and responsive
Creative eye for design
Transformed derelict barn
First class service
Honest and truthful
Services
Historic Building Refurbishment
Specialist refurbishment of listed buildings and historic structures. Our team combines conservation principles with modern functionality to preserve architectural heritage while meeting contemporary needs. We navigate complex planning requirements and deliver sensitive adaptations that enhance historical value.
New Architecture Design
Creation of modern architectural solutions within historic contexts. We design buildings that respect their surroundings while introducing innovative spatial concepts. Our approach ensures new developments complement existing urban fabric through careful material selection and contextual design responses.
Planning Applications
Comprehensive planning support for residential and commercial projects. We prepare detailed submissions, manage listed building consents, and negotiate with local authorities to secure approvals for complex architectural proposals.
Biodiversity Net Gain
BNG strategy development for developers and landowners. We integrate ecological enhancements into architectural projects while maintaining design integrity, ensuring compliance with new environmental regulations through innovative site-specific solutions.
Technical Architecture
Detailed technical design and construction phase services. Our team provides building regulations compliance, site inspections, and contractor coordination to ensure design intent is maintained throughout the build process with precise execution.
People
Charlotte Harrison
Partner
Founding partner with 20+ years' experience in design and refurbishment across commercial, community, and residential sectors. Former part-time university design tutor and international architecture festival organiser.
Glen McGowan
Partner
Co-founder specialising in historic buildings with a Masters in Conservation Studies. Former project architect on high-profile London developments and chair of Friends of York Walls charity.
Ross Harrison
Senior Architect
Qualified architect with technical expertise in residential and commercial projects. Brings construction industry experience to ensure practical design solutions and effective site implementation.
Nick Walters
Architectural Assistant
Senior assistant with RIBA qualifications and experience in new-build residential and care home projects. Former modular building designer with creative multimedia interests.
Murray Taylor
Architectural Technologist
BIM specialist with international experience on landmark projects including Battersea Power Station. Expert in technical detailing and digital construction methodologies.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential and commercial architecture, historic building conservation, Listed Building adaptations, and new developments within historic environments.
Do you work outside Yorkshire?
While based in York, we undertake projects nationally with particular expertise in historic urban environments across the UK.
How do you handle Listed Building projects?
Our team has specialist conservation expertise and proven experience navigating complex planning requirements for Grade I and II* listed properties.
What is your design approach?
We combine contemporary design principles with conservation best practices to create architecture that respects heritage while meeting modern needs.
Can you manage full architectural projects?
Yes, we provide end-to-end services from initial concept design through planning, technical detailing, and construction phase support.
Reviews (5)
Lee Thornley
Jun 15, 2021
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Charlotte and her team are a pleasure to work with and brought genuine flair and creativity to our renovation. Unlike other architects we have worked with, Charlotte was not only focussed on the design credentials of the build, she was also incredibly helpful in ensuring the budget was considered alongside all decisions. Our build was genuinely stress free and we would highly recommend the whole team at Mass. Particular credit to the lovely Christina who worked tirelessly on our build. Lee and Phil
Wendy P.
Oct 24, 2020
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A great personal service. Charlotte was quick on the uptake of what we wanted and attentive to cost as well as quality. Pleased with the attention to detail we spent this morning in the office with all of us discussing how to make your gutters on the extension discreet and attractive - made me glad we had professional designers on the case
Happy to recommend Mass
Happy to recommend Mass
Ann Gurnell
Oct 06, 2020
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Value
Charlotte and the team at Mass Architecture are great to work with. Professional, skilled, empathic and smart - innovating in the new build and conservation spaces with equal flair.
Charlotte and the team at Mass Architecture are great to work with. Professional, skilled, empathic and smart - innovating in the new build and conservation spaces with equal flair.
Sally Howlett
Jul 09, 2020
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Working with Mass Architecture on the refurbishment project for our Research Centre at the University of York has been a pleasure. Charlotte really engaged with our dual brief to create both interactive areas and quiet zones for individual working. Throughout the project we were assured of regular updates, honest feedback and personal attention. We would thoroughly recommend Mass and thank them for all their efforts in creating a space that is a pleasure to work in.
Chris Hornby Silverdoor
Jun 08, 2020
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Charlotte and Team Mass Architecture were great to work with on what was a large project for us on our home. They were CREATIVE which was what we were really looking for and SUPER RELIABLE. We always felt in safe and forward-thinking hands and the fact that our project ended up being a finalist in the York Design Awards says it all really. Highly recommended!
