Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Preston
Established in 1930, Francis Roberts Architects is a distinguished practice operating from Preston and Manchester. We specialise in architectural design, historic building conservation, and urban planning, serving private clients, landowners, trusts, and community groups. Our portfolio includes significant projects such as the Bletchingdon Village Extension in Oxfordshire, restoration works at Blackpool Tower and Cartmel Priory, and the Nansledan School in Cornwall. With specialist accreditation from the AABC, we combine traditional expertise with innovative solutions for new buildings, conversions, and heritage projects. Our team has delivered award-winning designs across public buildings, residential developments, and conservation schemes, maintaining a strong commitment to quality and contextual sensitivity.We collaborate closely with clients to create functional, aesthetically considered spaces that respect historical integrity while meeting modern needs. Our work with the Duchy of Cornwall on rural housing projects demonstrates our deep understanding of sustainable development in sensitive landscapes. The practice continues its legacy of excellence underpinned by decades of experience and technical proficiency in both traditional and contemporary construction methods.
Services
Architectural Design
Historic Conservation
Urban Planning
Restoration Projects
New Building Construction
Details
- Year established: 1930
Highlights and features
- We have over 90 years of experience in architectural design and conservation
- Our AABC accreditation ensures expert handling of heritage projects
- We specialise in complex listed building restorations and urban design schemes
- Our team has delivered award-winning projects for the Duchy of Cornwall
- We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern construction techniques
Associations and certifications
- AABC
Services
Historic Conservation
Specialist conservation services for listed buildings and heritage sites. We restore architectural integrity while incorporating modern functionality. Our expertise includes working with traditional materials and techniques to preserve historical value.
Architectural Design
Comprehensive architectural design for new constructions. We create bespoke solutions balancing aesthetics, functionality, and environmental considerations. Our designs respond to site context and client requirements across residential and public sectors.
Urban Planning
Strategic urban design services for sustainable development. We specialise in village extensions and town centre revitalisation projects that enhance community spaces while respecting historical context and modern needs.
Restoration Projects
Comprehensive restoration of historic structures. Our team undertakes detailed condition assessments and implements repair programmes using traditional craftsmanship. We maintain original character while ensuring structural longevity and compliance.
New Building Construction
End-to-end new build services from concept to completion. We deliver modern architectural solutions tailored to client needs, incorporating sustainable practices and innovative design principles across residential and commercial sectors.
People
Francis Roberts
Founder
Founder of the practice with a career spanning nearly six decades. Pioneered conservation approaches that balanced heritage preservation with modern functionality. Active until 2025, shaping the firm's ethos of contextual sensitivity.
Dominic Roberts
Architect
Key contact for conservation projects, continuing the firm's legacy. Specialises in heritage-sensitive designs and listed building restorations. Maintains the practice's commitment to traditional craftsmanship and technical excellence.
Sally Stone
Architect
Lead designer for rural housing projects. Brings expertise in sustainable development within protected landscapes. Known for innovative solutions that harmonise new constructions with natural surroundings.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in historic conservation, new building design, urban planning, and restoration projects. Our expertise covers residential, educational, and public buildings with a focus on heritage-sensitive solutions.
Do you work outside the Preston and Manchester area?
Yes, we operate nationwide with completed projects in Oxfordshire, Cornwall, Dorset, and Northamptonshire. Our experience includes both urban and rural developments across various regions.
What is your approach to historic building restoration?
We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to preserve architectural integrity. Our AABC-accredited team ensures historical accuracy while implementing necessary updates for functionality and longevity.
Can you handle both conservation and new build projects?
Yes, our practice uniquely bridges heritage conservation and contemporary design. This dual expertise allows us to deliver cohesive solutions where old and new elements coexist harmoniously.
What accreditations do you hold?
We hold specialist accreditation from the AABC (Architectural Accreditation Board for Conservation), demonstrating our expertise in handling complex heritage projects and listed building modifications.
