Our Philosophy.
Sustainability.
Sustainability isn't something we try and do, it's at the heart of everything we do. We don't accept the choice between architecture that is beautiful and architecture that is good. Whatever the brief, we will seek to employ the most relevant sustainable solutions in a way that adds to the architectural quality of a building.
Stephen and Andrea are trained Passivhaus designers, having worked on a number of Passivhaus projects in recent years.
Craft.
We are excited by new and evolving means of construction and the growing role of prefabrication in the built environment. Such advancements help us keep up with the fast pace and growing demands of modern life.
At the same time we recognise that, over the past century, there has been a lost sense of craft in the industry, and with it a lost sense of connection to our physical environment. We understand why people have a more meaningful connection to an aged brick wall than to a concrete-clad tower block.
We look to bridge that gap, by exploring and expressing the craft inherent in modern construction processes, to meet the needs of industry while instilling a human touch. Ultimately, we want to to make buildings that people really care about.
Use.
Architecture is both a branch of art and and a branch of science. It must be visually pleasing, but it must also be more than this. As with all fields of applied design, it is the creative process of solving problems, of fulfilling needs. Ultimately, it is these functional needs that drive the creation of buildings, big and small.
We believe that the best architecture improves the experiences contained within. How can a school make learning a joyful experience? How can a hospital actively contribute to the wellbeing of patients? How can a house be made to feel like a home?
And in the end, what might this building be in 1, 10 and 100 years time?
Value.
We are keenly aware that, for a building to be considered a genuine success, it must be more than just visually pleasing. It must provide value for money.
We also understand that the word "value" means different things to different people. For some, it can be measured in their improved quality of life. For others, it is a new identity on which to build a business. And for many, it is a quantifiable return on investment.
Through years of cross-sector experience, we understand the need to establish the economic principles of each individual project at the earliest possible stage, using them as a catalyst for design. Whatever the project, we consider it our responsibility to ensure that our clients get more out of the process than they put in.
Personality.
As designers, we bring our own personality to every project. Our likes and dislikes, and our own creative process. But we also make a deliberate choice to incorporate our client’s personalities. We are the designers but our clients are the end users, and so the end result should be a reflection of their personality and a vessel for it.
We must also adapt to the architectural context we are designing within, knowing that our urban and rural environments are already bursting with personality. From warehouse apartments to listed Georgian terraces, we look to celebrate the unique and valuable aspects of each site we inherit. This has lead to our eclectic collection of built and unbuilt works, and keeps us constantly engaged and excited by each new challenge.
Joy.
After all of the technical issues are dealt with and after all questions of “how?” are answered, comes the question of “why?”. It is the Architect that supports the client in answering this question.
From the texture of materials to the warmth of lighting, we are constantly thinking about how to elevate everyday experiences. This requires an honest evaluation of the way people live and their motivations.
Architecture is hard work, but the opportunity to create shared moments of joy inspires us to go beyond our basic responsibilities. It adds an energy to everything we do.