The Best Self-Build Architects in the UK in 2023

The Best Self-Build Architects in the UK in 2023

At ACA, we recognise the vast array of experienced architects within the UK working in different areas of specialism. This wide breadth of talent demonstrates the advances and developments in architecture today. 

We want to ensure that our potential customers are as informed as possible.

In order to do this, we want to discuss and acknowledge who we would consider the top architects (or designers) within the UK in 2023.

This article only reflects our opinion based on information readily available on the internet.

Here at ACA, we have previously been asked, ‘If we choose not to work with you, then who else should we consider?’

At ACA, we are a practice that specialises in helping clients realise their self-build dreams – across the UK. However, we may not always be the best fit for everyone.

Top Architects in the UK

In order to form this list, we look at architects who meet the following criteria:

• Based in the UK
• Offer a bespoke service
• Cover a variety of build types but primarily focused on residential design
• Sustainability and environmentally conscious design

HEM Architects

HEM Architects is based in Sheffield, England. A talented team that consists of 10 Architects and Technicians. The practice was founded in 2010 by Paul Testa and recently went through a rebranding exercise.

They offer a bespoke service specialising in Passivhaus, low-energy builds and deep Retrofit conversions. They also pride themselves on providing various packages that support clients through their self-build journey.

ORME

Orme was established in 1995 and has offices in both Bristol and Somerset.

They cover various builds, including private, housing developments and retail.

Orme has a team of 27 which consists of a mixture of Architects and Technicians.

They offer various services to support clients from the start to finish of a build. Clients can also now benefit from having 3D models of their builds as well as VR sessions before building.

Paul Archer Design

Paul Archer Designs is based in London and employs a team of 15. They were established over 20yrs ago and specialise in sustainable and environmentally conscious designs.

They focus on transforming existing houses into stunning, contemporary, and functional homes.

They pride themselves on offering a variety of expertise to guide clients through each build stage.

Tony Holt Design

Tony Holt Designs is a smaller practice with a team of 6 (architects and technicians) based in Bournemouth. They carry out work throughout the UK.

They offer a service that is special and unique to the individual, creating designs for extensions, remodels, existing properties or new builds. Tony Holt has a distinctive design style, which is visible in most of their projects.

Ström

Ström is based in Lymington, England and was founded in 2010. It consists of a team of 14 that work nationally and internationally.

They create contemporary designs which put sustainability at the forefront of their design ethos.

Ström work on high-end, high-value commissions across the world.

Brown and Brown

Brown & Brown is a practice based in Aberdeen and Inverness with a team of 6. They work throughout Scotland and beyond.

The focus is on contemporary urban design and rural homes, as well as ensuring that they take a sustainable approach. Their approach also ensures that their builds are sympathetic to the environmental surroundings and have a low carbon impact.

They are passionate about sustainability.

PJT Design Ltd

Although not an Architect, Pete Tonks has been leading the way in timber design since he founded his business almost 20 years ago in Cambridge.

He is an oak frame specialist who designs for residential and new build homes, working closely with oak frame experts Oakwrights.

Pete’s designs range from traditional to contemporary, working closely with the clients, and completing drawings in hand sketch format.

These are 7 Architects (designers) in the UK that we consider the top practices. If you are looking for an architect specialising in sustainable self-build, we encourage you to consider engaging with some of these practices.

You may also want to consider looking at some of the following excellent resources to ensure that you select a reputable Architect:

• How much does a Self-Build architect cost?

• Working with a Self-Build architect – Stages of a Self-build project

• How to choose a Self-Build architect for your project?

Finally, if you would like to know more about AC Architects, we suggest booking a free initial consultation or arranging a visit to our team at the NSBRC in Swindon.

Doing research into Architects that will design to your specifications can ensure that you create the house of your dreams.