Business Details
14 Years
experience
RIBA Chartered Architects in Chesterfield
MAD Architects is a RIBA Chartered architectural practice based in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, with additional offices in Sheffield and the Peak District. Established in 2012, we specialise in innovative, sustainable design with a focus on Passivhaus standards. Our team includes a Certified Passivhaus Designer and RIBA-registered architects, each with nearly two decades of experience in residential, commercial, and regeneration projects. We utilise advanced 3D modelling software (BIM) to provide clear visualisations from the earliest design stages, ensuring transparency and client engagement. Our approach prioritises bespoke solutions tailored to individual client needs, combining environmental responsibility with functional excellence. With a proven track record in securing planning permissions and delivering projects to the highest technical standards, we guide clients through every phasefrom initial consultation to construction completion.Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond energy efficiency, incorporating biodiversity enhancements, water management strategies, and renewable technologies. Recognised for our collaborative ethos and technical expertise, we have worked on diverse schemes including private residences, commercial developments, and large-scale regeneration projects. Our work has been featured in industry publications, reflecting our dedication to pushing architectural boundaries while maintaining a personal, client-centric service. As a small practice, we pride ourselves on direct communication, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of local planning contexts across Derbyshire and South Yorkshire.
Services
Architectural Design
Passivhaus Consultancy
Sustainable Design
Planning Permission Support
Building Regulations
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We have nearly 20 years of architectural design experience.
- Our team includes a Certified Passivhaus Designer.
- We use advanced BIM software for clear design visualisation.
- We provide personal, one-to-one bespoke service at all stages.
- We have a proven track record in securing planning permissions.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- Passivhaus Institute
Services
Architectural Design
We create bespoke architectural solutions for residential and commercial projects, integrating sustainable principles from the initial design phase. Our team utilises advanced 3D modelling software to visualise concepts, ensuring clarity and alignment with client expectations. With expertise in Passivhaus standards, we deliver energy-efficient buildings that balance aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility.
Passivhaus Consultancy
Our Passivhaus services focus on ultra-low energy buildings that maintain comfort with minimal heating or cooling. We guide clients through the certification process, applying the 'Fabric First' approach with high insulation, airtightness, and renewable technologies. This ensures compliance with rigorous sustainability benchmarks while reducing long-term operational costs.
Planning Permission Support
We assist in securing planning permissions for new builds, extensions, and renovations. Our expertise includes preparing detailed submissions, design statements, and liaison with local authorities. We specialise in navigating complex cases, including conservation areas and listed buildings, to achieve approvals that align with client visions.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design approach prioritises environmental stewardship through renewable technologies, biodiversity enhancements, and water management strategies. We incorporate solar orientation, thermal mass, and low-impact materials to create buildings that minimise ecological footprints while maximising occupant well-being.
Building Regulations
We ensure projects meet UK Building Regulations by preparing detailed technical drawings and coordinating with structural engineers. Our services include submitting applications, addressing compliance conditions, and certifying works to guarantee safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency standards are met.
People
Martin Rix
Partner Architect / ARB / RIBA Passivhaus Designer
Martin has been a qualified architect for nearly 20 years, previously working on sustainable projects for major clients like the Home Office and Westfield. He founded MAD Architects in 2012 to focus on bespoke, design-led projects and holds a Passivhaus certification. He leads the practice's commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility.
Eliza Sophocleous
Partner Architect / ARB
Eliza brings over 20 years of experience in residential and commercial architecture, including projects for UNITE and Westfield. She joined MAD Architects in 2015, enhancing the practice's technical expertise and design capabilities. Her work focuses on combining aesthetic appeal with practical functionality.
Questions
What is Passivhaus architecture?
Passivhaus is a rigorous energy efficiency standard originating from Germany, ensuring buildings consume minimal energy for heating and cooling while maintaining comfort.
Do you work outside Derbyshire and South Yorkshire?
While based in Chesterfield and Sheffield, we undertake projects across the UK, including the Peak District National Park and beyond.
Can you help with planning permission for listed buildings?
Yes, we specialise in securing Listed Building Consent and navigating conservation area requirements while preserving historical integrity.
What software do you use for design visualisation?
We utilise advanced BIM software to create detailed 3D models, enabling clear visualisation of your project from the earliest stages.
How do you ensure sustainability in your designs?
We integrate renewable technologies, high-performance materials, and passive solar design principles to create energy-efficient, environmentally responsible buildings.
Reviews (6)
Paul Goodwin
Apr 05, 2021
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The help, advice, and work undertaken by MAD Architects llp, proved to be invaluable in dealing with an extremely stubborn Council. We wouldn't have got to where we are now without Martin, we will be eternally grateful for him undertaking our project, keeping us in the picture in easy to understand updates, and for his professionalism. Many thanks all at MAD Architects llp, especially Martin, great work.
Nick & Tricia Goffin
Jun 27, 2019
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After talking to a number of architects about our ideas and vision, we were delighted to find that Martin understood them and then took them to the next level. His emphasis on 'flow' and light throughout the re-modelled house was the key to the work. With his support, advice and guidance we have a totally modernised four bedroom, three bathroom house with a new kitchen, and a natural 'flow' for people, air and light, plus a 21st century insulated property with extra external insulation and modern rendering. Martin's interest in 'green' development and 'future proofing' have allowed us to design
Marcello Rea
Oct 22, 2016
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Martin was recommended to us by a friend. I'm a very fussy type of guy and Martin was quick to understand this, he was patient understanding and professional throughout. He always responds to concerns, never missed an appointment or failed to respond to texts. I'm an old fashioned pen and paper type so I wasn't immediately impressed when Martin told me drawings would be done on C.A.D. however Martin was able to quickly produce clear drawings and could quickly alter details that would have taken ages otherwise. the computer program also enabled a simulated tour of the building which also proved
Hilary Widdowson
May 29, 2016
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Martin is very personable but entirely professional. He took time to understand what we needed and was very patient. He shared impressive examples of various projects. The pricing structure is clear. The drawings enabled us to fully visualise the extension. I would certainly recommend this firm.
John Justice
Dec 28, 2015
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Before I started this project I approached a number of architects for ideas and costs. I issued a brief, which was to update and extend a 1930s bungalow to double the size and to incorporate modern features while still retaining the look of the original bungalow from the front and Martin from MAD Architects was the only one to follow the brief and come up with ideas to vastly improve it, and also his costs were the most competitive. Martin has worked with me from day one right through to completion and we are thoroughly delighted with the result. Nothing has been too much trouble for Martin and
Iain Chambers
May 13, 2015
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The house already had a large rear extension meaning our desire for a further lounge extension was likely to run into planning difficulties. Martin exploited his sound knowledge of Permitted Development rights to design a detached timber clad living space to meet our requirements that didnt need planning permission. It was a pleasure working with Martin, stage by stage, to translate our initial ideas into a fully developed stylish building complete with construction and engineering details.
