Since our formation in 1999, our principal aim has been to work with pioneering clients who wish to commission architecture that will inspire people and contribute to a progressive and sustainable future.

We listen to our clients’ needs and maintain a commitment to thoroughly understand and interpret each project brief. We produce effective and highly affordable solutions that meet each programme’s design criteria and bring added value through the flair and imagination of our design studio.

A significant proportion of our work includes the use of standardised off-site components and the development of innovative fabrication techniques. We continue to invest in Building Information Modelling (BIM) knowledge and expertise and we are working in collaboration with engineers and manufacturers on a open BIM platform.

Our work ranges from masterplanning sustainable developments and landmark civic projects, through to individual schemes for private clients. We have extensive experience in the refurbishment, remodelling and enhancing of existing buildings including work with English Heritage and gaining Planning Contents for Listed Buildings.

 

Our research and development programme has included a series of structured field study trips to various locations worldwide such as the USA, Scandinavia and Europe. All members of the studio are encouraged to develop their professional interests and knowledge through conferences, lectures and on-going CPD programmes.

We also act as Client Design Advisor, assisting in the professional development of a project brief and offering critical analysis on emerging building design proposals. We interrogate the property case, challenging quality assumptions and demanding value for money at every stage of a projects development. Advice has been given on projects totalling c.£1bn to date.

Through our commitment to reducing carbon emissions, we are delivering zero carbon designs, on-site energy generation and developing positive carbon innovations. This work has been recognised through a number of regional and international awards for sustainability and design excellence.

AWARDS & NOMINATIONS

  • RIBA LSC Design Excellence: National Winner

  • Manchester Society of Architects: President’s Choice Award 2022

  • RIBA Design Awards Winner: New Roundhouse 2010

  • Civic Design Award: Cheshire West and Chester The Lookout 2021

  • RIBA Design Awards Shortlist: The Lookout Pettypool 2019

  • RIBA Design Awards Shortlist: The Manchester College 2011

  • RIBA Design Awards Shortlist: Westport Lake Visitor Centre 2011

  • Manchester Society of Architects 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2013, 2015, 2019 and Manchester Building of the Year judged by Lord Norman Foster 2019

  • AJ Retrofit Awards: Shortlist 2011

  • RICS Award: Design Innovation

  • Roses Awards 2006, 2009, 2011

  • Community Leisure UK Awards Finalist : Great Sankey 2019

  • Green Apple: National Gold Winner 2010

  • CAB Innovative Re-use of Aluminium: European Shortlist

  • MPA British Pre-cast: Best Practice for Innovation National Winner

PUBLICATIONS

  • OECD Exemplary Education Facilities: Top 60 Worldwide

  • Wallpaper: Best Buildings 2019

  • The Architects' Journal

  • The Architectural Review

  • Creative Review

  • DETAIL.de

  • RIBA Journal

  • DIVISARE

  • European Spa Magazine

  • RIBA LSC Great Buildings

  • New Libraries for Manchester

  • Renewable Energy World