Our Process

We have evolved a powerful and consistent approach to the design of buildings and places that is proving successful. The core of our approach is an iterative process in which ideas are progressively tested and refined in consultation with clients, user groups and authorities. We approach our work in a realistic and pragmatic way, responding to each project individually. Projects are informed by targeted research into building typology as well as context, history and planning.

The design brief is significant in testing possible design solutions and forms the basis of the design concept. We believe that this initial phase is critical in the future success of a project and is further enhanced by the collaborative process with the client, other consultants and artists. The end-users of our buildings take pride in their involvement throughout the design process which gives a sense of ownership of the completed building for all those involved.

We have always worked collaboratively with artists to enable a strong concept and vision for new developments, most notably, Electric Wharf, a mixed use canal-side development in central Coventry created from the shell of a former Victorian power station and depot, Electric Light Works.  Collaboration has been an important factor in the design and construction stages at Electric Wharf and we continue to work closely with artists to develop ideas for new projects. The image you see above is an early sketch of Electric Wharf by artist David Patten.

Through our approach, we see our architecture as design-led, but also people-led. A participative process brings about an alternative perspective so that we think beyond the physical constraints of a building or space. Artists interrogate our ideas and work from an alternative agenda helping us to achieve a ‘sense of place’. They might challenge light, colour, shape or form. Designs evolve based on the history or culture of a building or site. 

"Artists reveal things that architects don’t always see." Larry Priest

This artistic influence has no doubt had an effect on our in-house team of talented and creative technical staff. We've created an image set on Flickr which is made up of photos taken by various members of the team. These photos feature on the homepage and you can view the full set here.