Business Details
Award-Winning Rural Architects in the Cotswolds
We are an established team of architects based in Stroud, within the Cotswolds, dedicated to creating innovative and sustainable designs that harmonise with their natural surroundings. Our practice specialises in sensitive renovations, bespoke new builds, and thoughtful extensions tailored to clients' lifestyles and the landscape's character. With a focus on rural architecture, we prioritise understanding client needs, employing collaborative methodologies and cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality to enhance design clarity.Our commitment to sustainability is embedded in every project, from energy-efficient renovations to eco-conscious new constructions. Recognised with RIBA awards, we maintain a high planning success rate and offer expertise in navigating complex sites and heritage considerations. Our regional reach extends across the Cotswolds, serving Stroud, Cirencester, Cheltenham, and beyond. We balance approachable informality with meticulous professionalism, ensuring projects align with both personal aspirations and environmental stewardship.
Services
Architectural Design
Sustainable Renovations
New Build Homes
Rural Extensions
Land Consultancy
Highlights and features
- We combine 15+ years of architectural expertise with innovative technologies like virtual reality for precise design visualisation.
- Our practice maintains a 95% planning success rate for complex rural projects.
- We pioneered sustainable design methods including passive energy principles and biodiversity net-gain strategies.
- Our collaborative approach integrates client needs with environmental stewardship and heritage considerations.
- Recognised with RIBA South West awards for excellence in architectural innovation.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
What people say
Flippin' brilliant
Award-winning excellence
Great credit to architects
Sustainable rural architecture
95% planning success
Services
Architectural Design
We create tailored architectural solutions for rural properties, blending modern functionality with landscape sensitivity. Our process begins with understanding client needs and site constraints, followed by concept development and detailed planning. Specialising in Cotswold vernacular styles, we ensure every design enhances both living experience and environmental harmony.
Sustainable Renovations
Our team transforms existing structures into energy-efficient spaces using passive design principles. This includes upgrading insulation, installing renewable energy systems, and repurposing materials. We prioritise biodiversity net-gain and carbon reduction while preserving historical integrity, particularly for listed buildings in sensitive rural areas.
New Build Homes
We design contemporary homes that respect their natural surroundings. From initial concept to construction, our approach focuses on maximising natural light, integrating with landscapes, and using sustainable materials. Recent projects include eco-friendly family homes and retirement properties with adaptable living spaces.
Rural Extensions
Our extensions enhance functionality while maintaining architectural coherence. We specialise in contemporary additions to period properties, using materials that complement original structures. Projects often involve creating open-plan living areas with seamless indoor-outdoor connections to maximise rural vistas.
Land Consultancy
We help clients identify development opportunities on rural land, including planning viability assessments and design strategy. Our sister company Livedin Custom Build connects landowners with self-builders, focusing on sites with existing or potential planning permissions across the Cotswolds region.
People
Tomas Millar
Co-Director
Co-founder with 15+ years' experience in rural architecture, specialising in heritage-sensitive designs. Leads innovative projects integrating virtual reality for client engagement and sustainable solutions for listed buildings.
Tom Howard
Co-Director
Co-director focused on sustainable building practices and self-build projects. Designed award-winning eco-homes and leads community-focused developments. Featured in Grand Designs for innovative treehouse architecture.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We focus on rural architecture including renovations, new builds, and extensions tailored to Cotswold landscapes and heritage requirements.
Do you work outside the Cotswolds region?
While based in Stroud, we work across Gloucestershire and surrounding counties, maintaining our signature approach to landscape-sensitive design.
How do you incorporate sustainability into projects?
We use passive energy principles, natural materials, and biodiversity-enhancing strategies aligned with RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge targets.
Can you help with planning permissions for difficult sites?
Our 95% planning success rate reflects expertise in securing approvals for complex rural and heritage sites through innovative design solutions.
What technology do you use in your design process?
We employ virtual reality and photogrammetry to enhance client understanding and streamline decision-making during the design phase.
Videos
