Business Details
Expert Architectural Design Services in Richmond
We are an architectural practice dedicated to creating innovative buildings and spaces that reflect our clients' needs while prioritising sustainability and contextual sensitivity. Founded by experienced professionals with extensive backgrounds in large architectural firms, we combine creativity with pragmatism to deliver tailored design solutions. Our approach centres on placing people at the heart of the design process, ensuring our projects meet both client objectives and the requirements of end-users. With over a decade of experience, we have delivered more than two million square feet of new and refurbished spaces, including iconic projects like the Warner Bros Studios' Harry Potter Studio Tour. Our directors remain directly involved in every project phase, from initial concept to completion, maintaining consistent design quality and client service.We foster collaborative relationships with clients, consultants, and contractors, which form the foundation of our success. Our portfolio spans architecture, interior design, masterplanning, and principal designer services under CDM regulations. We pride ourselves on attention to detail, hands-on leadership, and creating spaces that inspire collaboration and community. Our studio culture encourages creative exchange while maintaining rigorous adherence to project briefs and legal standards. This commitment to excellence has earned us repeat commissions and recognition in the architectural field.
Services
Architecture
Interior Design
Masterplanning
Principal Designer
Building Safety Compliance
Highlights and features
- We maintain consistent design quality and client service through repeat commissions
- Our directors remain hands-on throughout every project lifecycle
- We specialise in translating user needs into effective architectural solutions
- We combine creativity with pragmatic delivery expertise
- Our practice holds extensive experience with CDM 2015 and Building Safety Act compliance
Services
Architecture
We create innovative architectural solutions tailored to client needs and site contexts. Our approach combines creative vision with practical delivery expertise, ensuring buildings meet functional requirements while achieving aesthetic excellence. With extensive experience across commercial, cultural, and residential sectors, we deliver projects that balance sustainability with user experience.
Interior Design
Our interior design service focuses on creating functional, beautiful spaces that reflect client aspirations. We integrate architectural elements with spatial planning to optimise usability and aesthetics. From concept development to final detailing, we ensure interiors foster productivity, comfort, and brand identity through carefully considered material selections and layout solutions.
Masterplanning
We develop comprehensive masterplans that prioritise sustainability, community needs, and contextual integration. Our approach combines strategic thinking with detailed analysis of site potential and regulatory requirements. We create cohesive environments that balance development density with green spaces, ensuring long-term viability and adaptability of urban areas.
Principal Designer
We provide expert principal designer services under CDM 2015 regulations and the Building Safety Act 2022. Our role ensures health and safety compliance throughout project lifecycles, coordinating design teams and managing risk assessments. We maintain rigorous standards while facilitating efficient project delivery through our deep understanding of regulatory frameworks.
Building Safety Compliance
Our practice offers specialist guidance on meeting current building safety legislation. We help clients navigate complex regulatory requirements while maintaining design integrity. Through proactive risk management and collaboration with statutory authorities, we ensure projects achieve compliance without compromising architectural vision or operational efficiency.
People
John Duthaler
RIBA Director
Experienced architect with extensive expertise in leading complex projects from concept to completion. Specialises in balancing creative vision with practical delivery requirements while maintaining rigorous design standards across diverse architectural sectors.
Stuart McLarty
RIBA Director
Architectural leader with deep knowledge of regulatory compliance and project management. Focuses on delivering high-quality buildings through collaborative design processes that prioritise user needs and sustainability while ensuring legal obligations are met.
Jai Sanghera
RIBA Director
Design-focused architect with particular strength in translating client aspirations into innovative spatial solutions. Brings technical expertise to complex projects while maintaining commitment to creating inspiring environments that enhance user experience and community engagement.
Chris Griffin
Associate
Key project team member with specialist skills in architectural detailing and construction documentation. Ensures design intent is maintained through technical delivery phases while coordinating with consultants to achieve cohesive building solutions.
Michal Swiadek
Project Leader
Experienced project manager responsible for overseeing design development and construction phases. Combines strong technical knowledge with client liaison skills to ensure projects meet quality standards while adhering to programme and budget constraints.
Questions
What architectural styles does dn-a specialise in?
We focus on contemporary design solutions tailored to each project's specific context rather than adhering to a particular style. Our approach prioritises functionality, sustainability, and contextual sensitivity.
Can you handle both new builds and renovation projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with both new construction and refurbishment projects. Notable examples include The Ark re-engineering project and Warner Bros Studios development.
Do you offer interior design services alongside architecture?
Yes, we provide integrated interior design services that complement our architectural work, ensuring cohesive design language and functionality across all project aspects.
How do you ensure compliance with building regulations?
Our practice includes CDM 2015 Principal Designer services and Building Safety Act expertise. We maintain rigorous compliance through dedicated project management and collaboration with statutory authorities.
What sectors does your practice cover?
We work across commercial, cultural, residential, and educational sectors. Our portfolio includes projects like life science facilities, hospitality venues, and major studio developments.
How do you approach sustainable design?
Sustainability is integral to our design process. We incorporate energy-efficient solutions, sustainable materials, and passive design strategies tailored to each project's environmental context and performance requirements.
