Business Details
40 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Cheltenham
Established in 1986, R R A Architects has built a reputation as a highly innovative architectural practice dedicated to delivering design excellence across diverse sectors. Our approach begins with active listening to client needs, followed by the creation of bespoke, context-driven solutions that balance aesthetic appeal with functional efficiency. With a portfolio spanning heritage restoration, sustainable design, and contemporary construction, we combine technical expertise with creative vision to transform concepts into reality. Our team of chartered architects and consultants collaborates closely with clients and contractors, ensuring projects meet exacting standards while respecting environmental and budgetary constraints.Recognised for our commitment to quality, integrity, and value, we maintain strong relationships with local authorities and conservation bodies to navigate complex planning requirements. Our work extends beyond buildings to encompass community engagement, as evidenced by our extensive CSR initiatives supporting education, environmental causes, and local charities. As part of the Powles Group Ltd, we continue to evolve while maintaining our founding ethos of architectural innovation and client-centric service.
Services
Architectural Design
Heritage Restoration
Sustainable Architecture
Project Management
Conservation Planning
Residential Extensions
Commercial Development
Planning Applications
Building Regulations
CSR Programmes
Details
- Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
- We have over 35 years of architectural experience in Cheltenham
- Our designs prioritise environmental sustainability and energy efficiency
- Chartered architects with specialist heritage conservation expertise
- Award-winning team with proven project management capabilities
- Comprehensive service from concept to construction completion
What people say
Exceptional service
Innovative design solutions
Excellent communication
Expert heritage knowledge
Project completed on time
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service creates bespoke solutions tailored to client needs and site contexts. We specialise in transforming concepts into functional spaces that balance aesthetic appeal with practical requirements. Our process incorporates 3D modelling and client collaboration to ensure optimal outcomes for residential and commercial projects.
Heritage Restoration
Specialist heritage restoration services preserve historical buildings while integrating modern functionality. We work closely with conservation officers and local authorities to maintain architectural integrity. Our expertise includes Grade I/II listed buildings and Scheduled Ancient Monuments across Gloucestershire and the West Midlands.
Sustainable Architecture
Sustainable architecture solutions focus on energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. We incorporate passive design principles and low-carbon technologies to create buildings that minimise environmental impact. Our approach balances ecological considerations with practical construction requirements.
Project Management
Comprehensive project management ensures seamless delivery from concept to completion. Our team coordinates contractors, monitors budgets, and maintains quality control throughout the construction process. We provide regular client updates and technical oversight to guarantee successful project outcomes.
CSR Programmes
Our corporate social responsibility initiatives include architectural services for charitable projects and local community support. We sponsor educational programmes, environmental conservation efforts, and cultural events while promoting sustainable practices within the construction industry.
People
Mark Powles
Managing Director
Chartered architect with 30+ years' experience, specialising in heritage and sustainable design. Leads RRA's strategic direction while maintaining hands-on project involvement. Advocate for architectural innovation and community engagement.
Tom Froggatt
Associate Director
Experienced architect with expertise in ecclesiastical, residential, and commercial projects. Manages complex renovations and new developments while mentoring junior staff. Passionate about combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques.
Rachel Palmer
Marketing Director
Marketing professional with 20 years' industry experience. Oversees RRA's branding, digital presence, and business development. Holds a Master's degree in marketing and manages the firm's community engagement initiatives.
Jane Cooke
Group Operations Director
Former hotel industry executive with 30 years' management experience. Oversees RRA's operational efficiency and team wellbeing. Implements work-life balance initiatives and coordinates CSR activities.
Robert Kilgour
Conservation Architect
Specialist in historic building conservation with SPAB scholarship background. Provides expert advice on Grade I/II listed structures and Scheduled Monuments. Works closely with cathedral authorities and heritage organisations.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full architectural services including design, planning applications, building regulations, project management, and specialist conservation work for residential and commercial clients.
Do you work on heritage buildings?
Yes, we specialise in heritage restoration with extensive experience on Grade I/II listed buildings and Scheduled Ancient Monuments across the UK.
Are you experienced in sustainable design?
Our practice has over 20 years' experience creating energy-efficient buildings that integrate low-carbon technologies and passive design principles.
How do you manage construction projects?
We provide comprehensive project management covering contractor coordination, budget control, quality assurance, and regular client progress updates throughout the construction phase.
What areas do you cover?
Based in Cheltenham, we operate throughout the UK with particular expertise in Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and the West Midlands.
Reviews (7)
Jo & Patrick Deen
Nov 28, 2021
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Mark and the RRA team did an excellent job identifying interesting and useful renovation opportunities for our property. They listened to our requirements and then added their own ideas and recommended approaches. The team provided clear advice and guidance, ensuring the project received planning permission. Importantly where inevitable additional planning activities were required they quickly dealt with them to get a successful outcome.
Tom Phillips
Oct 30, 2021
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I have worked as a professional in the construction industry for over 20 years, but this is the first time I've instructed an architect personally. I used RRA Architects to obtain planning for an extension and do up detailed drawings. They have been exceptional throughout the process. They have worked with us to improved our ideas, giving very good options throughout the process. I would highly recommend RRA Architects.
Michael Berry
Sep 22, 2021
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A huge thank you to Mark and all the team at RRA. They helped us deliver even more than we hoped for as part of our recent renovation. The plan was to achieve a greater feeling of light and space in the re-modelling of the rear of our house without actually adding to the footprint of the building. Mark came with a whole host of ideas, challenged our own thoughts and opened our eyes to a range of new possibilities. We had previously seen some stunning examples of RRAs work on a much grander scale and had concerns that our job would be too small for them, but at no point were we made to feel that
Caitlin Elliott
Sep 18, 2021
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Positive:Professionalism,Quality,Responsiveness,Value
Having worked at RRA on and off in-between my uni studies, I am so grateful for how supportive and welcoming they are as a team, and are a lovely group of people to work with.
Having worked at RRA on and off in-between my uni studies, I am so grateful for how supportive and welcoming they are as a team, and are a lovely group of people to work with.
Guy Jones
Sep 18, 2020
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We have worked with RRA through our landscape contracting business. We work with lots of architects. The team at RRA gave us clear drawings and direction allowing us to deliver a superb scheme efficiently. We look forward to working with them again in the future and helping more of their clients have a garden befitting of their property.
Alfie Snowdon
Aug 10, 2020
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Positive:Quality
At RRA they focus on ensuring each employee is well looked after and encourages team work throughout the practice. Great Architectural company to work for!
At RRA they focus on ensuring each employee is well looked after and encourages team work throughout the practice. Great Architectural company to work for!
Chris Jarrett
May 31, 2020
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Positive:Professionalism,Responsiveness
Mark and his staff at RRA Architects are one of our go to firms. The staff are incredibly responsive and proactive as well as imaginative when it comes to design and ideas. Highly recommended.
Mark and his staff at RRA Architects are one of our go to firms. The staff are incredibly responsive and proactive as well as imaginative when it comes to design and ideas. Highly recommended.
