Business Details
20 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design in the Cotswolds
Established in 2006, we are an award-winning architectural practice based on the edge of the Cotswolds. Our design-led approach prioritises client needs, context-driven solutions, and meticulous attention to detail across residential, commercial, and community projects. With a reputation for delivering high-quality architecture in Warwickshire, Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, and nationwide, we combine creativity with technical expertise to craft spaces that enrich lives. Our team of RIBA-accredited architects collaborates closely with clients throughout the entire project lifecycle, from initial concept to final construction. Sustainability and innovation are central to our work, ensuring each design enhances both the built environment and user experience. Our studio's location in a converted coach house in Shipston-on-Stour reflects our commitment to blending traditional character with modern functionality.We have received multiple industry accolades, including RIBA regional shortlistings and regional design awards, for projects ranging from private residences to public buildings. Our process begins with thorough consultation to understand client aspirations, followed by detailed feasibility studies and technical documentation. We maintain transparency throughout, offering cost planning support and contract administration to ensure projects meet budgetary and quality expectations. With extensive experience in listed building adaptations, new builds, and sustainable developments, we deliver tailored solutions that exceed expectations while respecting local contexts.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Architecture
New Build Homes
Listed Building Adaptations
Sustainable Design
Project Management
Planning Applications
Technical Drawings
Details
- Year established: 2006
Highlights and features
- We offer 18 years of architectural expertise since 2006
- Our team includes RIBA-accredited architects with conservation specialism
- We provide end-to-end project management from concept to completion
- Our designs consistently achieve regional and national award recognition
- We maintain transparent communication throughout the design process
What people say
Award-winning designs
Excellent client communication
Sustainable solutions
Detailed craftsmanship
Context-sensitive architecture
Services
Residential Architecture
We create bespoke residential spaces tailored to individual client needs. Our approach combines innovative design with practical functionality, ensuring each home reflects its occupants' lifestyle while respecting local architectural context. Projects range from small extensions to complete new builds, with specialist expertise in listed building adaptations and sustainable housing solutions.
Commercial Architecture
Our commercial architecture services deliver functional, aesthetically pleasing workspaces that enhance productivity and brand identity. We specialise in office developments, retail spaces, and mixed-use schemes, balancing commercial requirements with environmental considerations. Our team ensures compliance with regulations while maintaining design integrity across projects of all scales.
Project Management
We provide comprehensive project management from initial concept through to completion. This includes coordinating consultants, managing timelines and budgets, and administering building contracts. Our hands-on approach ensures quality control throughout construction, with regular site visits and transparent communication between all stakeholders involved in the development process.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design approach integrates environmental considerations into every project stage. We specialise in energy-efficient building solutions, natural material selection, and passive design strategies that reduce environmental impact. This includes expertise in Passivhaus principles and creating buildings that harmonise with their natural surroundings while maintaining modern comfort standards.
Listed Building Adaptations
We specialise in sensitive adaptations of listed buildings, balancing preservation requirements with modern functionality. Our team has extensive experience in historic building conservation, working closely with local authorities to achieve planning approvals. We maintain architectural integrity while introducing contemporary elements that enhance usability for modern occupants.
People
Simon Hayward
Founding Director + Architect
Co-founder with 20+ years' experience in high-quality architectural projects. Specialises in translating client briefs into innovative designs. Previously worked with Aldington Craig and Collinge and as director of Acanthus Clews Architects. Holds RIBA accreditation and has completed notable projects including Lincoln's Inn Great Hall reordering.
Nic Robinson
Director + Architect
RIBA-accredited architect with extensive residential and commercial project experience. Rejoined the practice in 2016 after working with Theis + Khan Architects. Led award-shortlisted projects like Warwickshire Farm and Orchard View. Specialises in creating context-sensitive designs that balance aesthetics with functionality.
Rob Statham
Director + Architect
Joined in 2016 from Glenn Howells Architects. Specialises in new-build houses and high-end residential developments. Led technical protocols implementation. Previously worked on UK's first certified Passivhaus projects. Combines meticulous attention to detail with innovative design solutions across various project scales.
Dan Marcus
Architect
Qualified Part III architect with experience in conservation and heritage projects. Joined during 2021 lockdown. Specialises in brownfield site developments and community-focused designs. Brings practical construction knowledge from pre-qualification industry experience. Contributes to projects at all stages of development.
Isobel Johnson
Part II Architectural Assistant
Recent Loughborough University graduate with two years' experience in residential and heritage projects. Student representative on Leicester City Council Conservation Advisory Panel. Focuses on developing technical design skills while preparing for Part III qualification. Brings fresh perspectives to the design process.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide residential, commercial, and community architecture services including new builds, extensions, listed building adaptations, and sustainable design solutions.
Do you work outside the Cotswolds region?
Yes, while based in the Cotswolds we deliver projects nationwide across the United Kingdom for both private and commercial clients.
How do you approach sustainable design?
We integrate environmental considerations through material selection, energy efficiency strategies, and passive design principles to create buildings that minimise environmental impact while maintaining modern comfort standards.
What awards have you won?
Our work has been shortlisted for RIBA regional awards and won regional design awards including the Aylesbury Vale District Council Design Award for Best Public Building.
How involved are directors in projects?
Directors maintain close client collaboration throughout all project stages, from initial brief development to construction oversight and final handover processes.
What is your design process?
Our process includes preparation, concept design, technical development, pre-construction planning, and construction phases with continuous client consultation and quality control.
Reviews (3)
Paul Evans
Sep 21, 2021
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Simon at Hayward Smart drew up the plans for our garden room extension. After a number of conversations, he produced a design which synthesised our various ideas, resulting in something which looked even better than we had imagined. He also project managed the build itself, and in his weekly site visits he frequently caught issues that would simply have passed us by. Knowing that such an experienced person was over-seeing the build reassured us during what seemed like a long 4 months! We could not be happier with the end product, and the professional service we received from Hayward Smart. We would
Andrew Tindsley
Jun 19, 2021
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A creative design studio with a thoughtful, contemporary take on local vernacular, a practical approach to construction and throughout a great attention to detail. Their talented and professional team is pleasure to work with.
Philip Goddard
May 19, 2021
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After meeting with several Architects we engaged Hayward Smart to design a modern cantilevered extension to our farmhouse along with internal alterations and improvements. We unfortunately encountered major problems with the builder and it was Simon, Nic and all at Hayward Smart Architects who's continual professionalism, diligence and attention to detail that produced a fantastic addition to our house. Their interpretation of our original brief produced a living space we could never have come close to without their design skills, detailing and understanding of the need to pursue quality in every
