Business Details
29 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Design & Consultation in London
Alan Higgs Architects is a full-service architectural practice with over 220 completed commissions across Britain, Australia, and Europe. Our expertise spans new residential builds, full-scale building reconstructions, commercial fit-outs, and work for educational and religious institutions. We specialise in revitalising listed buildings while integrating sustainable technologies, ensuring each project balances historical sensitivity with modern functionality. Our design philosophy prioritises spatial order, natural light, and client-specific solutions, reflecting over 25 years of experience since establishment in 1997.We maintain rigorous attention to budgetary and programme constraints while delivering architecturally significant results. Our team combines deep theoretical knowledge with practical expertise, having worked on projects ranging from private residences to large-scale institutional developments.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Fit-Outs
Listed Building Restoration
Sustainable Design
Urban Planning
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We have completed over 220 architectural commissions since 1997
- Specialists in working with listed buildings and historic structures
- Integrate sustainable technologies in every project design
- Led by RIBA-registered architect with doctorate in residential architecture
- Proven track record with complex urban and heritage-sensitive developments
Services
Residential Architecture
Our residential architecture services create bespoke living spaces that respond to site-specific conditions and client lifestyles. We specialise in new builds, renovations, and extensions that maximise natural light and spatial flow. Projects range from urban apartments to country estates, always maintaining architectural integrity and functional excellence.
Listed Building Restoration
We specialise in sensitive restoration and adaptive reuse of listed buildings, balancing historical preservation with modern functionality. Our approach maintains architectural character while integrating contemporary design elements and sustainable technologies. This includes obtaining listed building consents and navigating complex planning requirements.
Sustainable Design
Sustainability underpins all our projects through passive design strategies and eco-friendly materials. We incorporate renewable energy systems, water conservation techniques, and low-impact construction methods while maintaining aesthetic and functional excellence across residential and commercial developments.
Commercial Fit-Outs
We create functional commercial spaces that enhance workplace productivity and brand identity. Our services include space planning, interior design, and construction management for offices, retail spaces, and institutional buildings, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and accessibility requirements.
Urban Planning
Our urban planning expertise addresses complex site constraints and regulatory frameworks. We develop masterplans that integrate architectural design with public spaces, focusing on sustainable urban environments that respond to community needs and enhance cityscapes.
People
Alan Higgs
Principal Architect
Alan Higgs established the practice in 1997 after qualifying in Australia. With over 270 completed commissions, he combines academic expertise (PhD in residential architecture) with practical experience across residential, commercial, and institutional projects. His design philosophy balances historical sensitivity with modern functionality.
David Weston-Thomas
Senior Architect
David joined the practice in 2003 after working in San Francisco and Budapest. He brings expertise in commercial and public sector projects, focusing on spatial clarity and material innovation. His residential work complements Alan's approach while maintaining distinct design sensibilities.
Questions
What architectural styles do you specialise in?
We specialise in contemporary design that responds to historical context, with particular expertise in listed buildings and sustainable architecture across residential and commercial sectors.
Can you work with listed buildings?
Yes, we have extensive experience with over 30 listed building projects, including obtaining necessary consents and integrating modern requirements while preserving architectural heritage.
Do you handle international projects?
We have completed projects in Britain, Australia, Europe, and Myanmar, with experience navigating different regulatory frameworks and cultural contexts.
How do you incorporate sustainability?
Sustainability is integral through passive design, renewable energy systems, and material selection. We prioritise energy efficiency and environmental responsibility in all project phases.
What project sizes do you handle?
We work across scales from small extensions to large developments, including social housing, distilleries, and international schools, adapting our approach to each project's unique requirements.
How do you manage planning applications?
We have a 100% success rate in recent planning applications, including complex cases for listed buildings and urban infill projects, through strategic design and effective council engagement.
