Business Details
38 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architects in Cambridge Specialising in Bespoke Designs
Established in 1988, our practice has built a reputation for delivering innovative architectural solutions tailored to clients' unique needs. We specialise in both contemporary and heritage-focused projects, ranging from high-end residential developments to commercial renovations and listed building restorations. Our collaborative approach ensures clients remain integral to the design process, with a focus on achieving planning approvals and sustainable outcomes. With extensive experience across Cambridgeshire and the East of England, we combine creative design with technical expertise to produce energy-efficient buildings that respect their environments. Our team of chartered architects and specialists works closely with clients to address challenges in conservation, modern materials, and environmental responsibility.Recognised for our problem-solving capabilities, we have successfully completed diverse projects including barn conversions, new-build schemes, and flood-resilient housing. Our commitment to sustainability is demonstrated through membership in Architects Declare and implementation of fabric-first design principles. We maintain strong relationships with local planning authorities to maximise project success rates. This combination of creativity, technical proficiency, and client-centric service has earned us repeat commissions and industry recognition over three decades.
Services
Residential Architecture
Heritage Restoration
Sustainable Design
Commercial Projects
Planning Applications
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of experience in residential and commercial architecture
- Our team includes chartered architects with specialist heritage conservation expertise
- We guarantee a collaborative design process with client involvement at every stage
- Our practice has secured planning approval for complex projects in conservation areas
- We implement fabric-first design principles for energy-efficient buildings
Associations and certifications
- Architects Declare
What people say
High quality finish
Creative solutions
Good liaison with authorities
Excellent value
Strong heritage expertise
Services
Residential Architecture
We create bespoke residential designs that balance modern living requirements with environmental considerations. Our expertise spans new-build properties, property extensions, and complete home renovations. With particular specialism in listed buildings and conservation areas, we deliver solutions that enhance property value while respecting architectural heritage. Our approach combines client collaboration with technical expertise to produce functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces.
Heritage Restoration
Specialists in working with listed buildings and historic structures, we combine traditional techniques with modern requirements. Our team navigates complex planning regulations to preserve architectural integrity while improving functionality. We have extensive experience with period properties ranging from 17th-century barns to Victorian townhouses. Our approach maintains historical authenticity while incorporating sustainable upgrades and modern living standards in compliance with conservation guidelines.
Sustainable Design
We integrate environmental considerations throughout the design process to create energy-efficient buildings. Our fabric-first approach optimises thermal performance through strategic orientation and material selection. We implement renewable technologies like ground source heat pumps and solar panels while prioritising repair, reuse, and recycling of building materials. This holistic approach reduces carbon footprints while maintaining architectural excellence across both new builds and retrofit projects.
Commercial Projects
We deliver tailored commercial architecture solutions for retail, hospitality, and mixed-use developments. Our expertise includes town centre regeneration and adaptive reuse of historic buildings for modern commercial purposes. We balance commercial viability with design excellence, creating functional spaces that enhance business operations. Our track record includes award-winning conversions of listed buildings into contemporary commercial spaces while meeting modern regulatory requirements.
Planning Applications
We specialise in navigating complex planning processes for challenging sites and listed buildings. Our team prepares comprehensive applications that address local authority requirements while advocating for clients' interests. With deep knowledge of conservation area regulations and heritage considerations, we maximise approval chances through early stakeholder engagement. We provide strategic advice on design modifications to meet planning criteria while maintaining architectural vision.
People
Graham Handley
Director
Founder of the practice with over 35 years' experience in architectural design. Specialises in combining creative vision with practical solutions for complex projects. Leads the team in delivering bespoke architectural solutions that balance client needs with environmental considerations.
Ann Blythe
Director
Joined the practice in 1991, bringing expertise in heritage conservation and sustainable design. Focuses on client collaboration to develop tailored architectural solutions. Plays key role in negotiating planning approvals for challenging projects in conservation areas.
David Adams
Director
Leads commercial projects with particular expertise in town centre regeneration. Combines technical knowledge with creative problem-solving for complex developments. Oversees project delivery from initial concept through to construction completion.
Carl Rowland
Associate Director
Specialises in residential architecture with focus on new build and renovation projects. Manages client relationships and design development across diverse property types. Ensures high standards of design quality and technical execution.
Tom Scott
Director
Focuses on sustainable design principles and energy-efficient building solutions. Leads implementation of environmental technologies in both new builds and retrofit projects. Ensures compliance with latest sustainability standards while maintaining architectural integrity.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential and commercial architecture, heritage restoration, sustainable design, and planning application support across Cambridgeshire and surrounding counties.
How do you approach sustainable building design?
We use fabric-first principles, renewable technologies, and life-cycle analysis to create energy-efficient buildings that reduce carbon footprints while maintaining design quality.
Can you help with listed building projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with listed buildings and conservation areas, balancing heritage requirements with modern functionality and energy efficiency.
Do you work outside Cambridgeshire?
While based in Cambridgeshire, we work across the East of England including Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire, Hertfordshire, and Suffolk for appropriate projects.
How do you handle planning challenges?
We engage early with planning authorities, provide strategic design advice, and prepare comprehensive applications to maximise approval chances for complex projects.
What project sizes do you handle?
We work on projects of all scales from small residential extensions to large commercial developments and housing schemes with 75+ units.
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