Business Details
46 Years
experience
Classical Architecture & Urban Design Experts
Established in 1980, John Simpson Architects is a chartered architectural practice renowned for its commitment to classical and traditional architecture, urbanism, and interior design. Our work spans public, educational, commercial, and residential projects across the UK, Europe, and the USA, with a focus on creating timeless spaces that harmonise traditional forms with modern technology. We specialise in conservation, ecological architecture, and sustainable urban masterplans, having pioneered design codes long before they became government policy. Our team combines decades of experience with a deep understanding of architectural heritage, evidenced by landmark projects such as the King's Gallery at Buckingham Palace and the Walsh Family Hall at the University of Notre Dame.Recognised through numerous awards, including the Arthur Ross Award for Lifetime Achievement, we prioritise client collaboration, technical innovation, and the creation of spaces that enrich the public realm. Our practice is a member of the Royal Institute of British Architects and the International Network for Traditional Building, Architecture and Urbanism, reflecting our dedication to excellence and global best practices.
Services
Architecture
Urban Design
Interior Design
Conservation & Restoration
Design Codes
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- We offer 40+ years of expertise in classical and traditional architecture.
- Our team has completed award-winning projects for institutions like the Royal College of Music.
- We pioneered sustainable urban design codes adopted by UK government policy.
- Our work combines historical preservation with cutting-edge ecological technology.
- We maintain membership in prestigious architectural bodies like RIBA and INTBAU.
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institute of British Architects
- INTBAU: International Network for Traditional Building, Architecture and Urbanism
Services
Architecture
We provide full architectural services for new constructions and renovations, specialising in classical and traditional styles. Our work integrates modern technology with historical context to create enduring spaces. Clients benefit from our expertise in listed building consents, conservation, and award-winning institutional projects.
Urban Design
Our urban design services focus on sustainable, walkable communities through masterplanning and design codes. We create mixed-use developments that prioritise public spaces, having influenced UK government urban policy. Projects include Poundbury and Fairford Leys, demonstrating our commitment to human-centric environments.
Interior Design
We deliver bespoke interior designs for residential, commercial, and institutional spaces. Our approach preserves architectural heritage while incorporating modern functionality. Notable projects include Kensington Palace and the Royal College of Music, showcasing our ability to balance tradition with contemporary needs.
Conservation & Restoration
Specialising in historic building preservation, we restore listed structures using traditional techniques. Our work at Palazzo Grimani and Buckingham Palace demonstrates expertise in maintaining architectural integrity while meeting modern standards for accessibility and sustainability.
Design Codes
We develop design codes to ensure cohesive architectural quality in new developments. Pioneered by our practice, these codes guide sustainable, context-sensitive projects like Dickens Heath, blending traditional urban patterns with contemporary requirements for walkability and mixed-use spaces.
People
John Simpson
Principal of Practice
Professor of Architecture at the University of Buckingham, John Simpson is a RIBA-awarded architect known for reviving classical design. He pioneered sustainable urban codes and designed iconic projects like the King's Gallery at Buckingham Palace.
Joanna Wachowiak
Director
A RIBA member with expertise in conservation, Joanna led major projects including the Queen's Gallery at Buckingham Palace. She specialises in integrating historic preservation with modern functionality for Grade I Listed buildings.
Tiffany Abernathy
Director of US Projects
Tiffany oversees US operations with a focus on classical architecture. She has worked on New York landmarks like the Stanhope Hotel and contributes to the University of Notre Dame's architecture program as a visiting professor.
Victoria Lee
Associate Director
Victoria manages large-scale projects including the Defence and National Rehabilitation Centre. She serves on architectural examination panels and teaches at UK universities, combining practical and academic expertise in traditional design.
Questions
What architectural styles does John Simpson Architects specialise in?
We specialise in classical and traditional architecture, adapting historical principles to modern requirements while maintaining contextual harmony.
Do you work on listed building projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with listed buildings, including conservation and sensitive extensions to Grade I and II structures.
What urban design principles guide your masterplans?
Our masterplans prioritise walkability, mixed-use spaces, and sustainable communities using design codes we pioneered in the 1990s.
Have your projects received architectural awards?
Yes, our work has won multiple awards including RIBA Awards, the Arthur Ross Award, and the Georgian Group Best New Classical Building.
