Architecture

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the service

We see architecture as more than just creating buildings. It’s a careful balance of creativity, technical knowledge, and an understanding of how people use space.

As a RIBA Chartered Practice, we provide architectural design services that respond to the needs of contemporary construction while respecting the character of the places we work on.

About The Service

Our team combines the experience of senior professionals with the fresh perspective of emerging designers. Together, they take projects from early feasibility and concept design through detailed drawings, planning and on-site delivery. This mix of experience and fresh thinking keeps ideas sharp while maintaining the rigour that successful projects demand.

Collaboration is central to our approach. As an integrated property consultancy, our architects work alongside structural and civil engineers, project managers, cost consultants, and other specialists to deliver efficient design solutions.

We are committed to shaping places that last, from high-rise architecture and new commercial developments to sensitive conservation work and education projects. Our vested interest in sustainable architecture runs through everything we do, helping clients make informed choices about performance, energy use, and long-term value.

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Our Architectural Core Services

Pre-Development Site Surveys & Appraisals More

Feasibility Studies & Option Appraisals More

Developed Design More

Pre-Development Site Surveys & Appraisals

A successful project begins with a deep understanding of the site. Our architects work alongside project managers, civil engineers, and quantity surveyors to examine topography, access, utilities, existing structures, and planning context to uncover the full potential and constraints of a location.

This detailed assessment highlights infrastructure capacity, cost drivers, and programme implications, giving clients the insight to make confident early decisions.

By combining development potential with a clear view of risks, we create a comprehensive picture of feasibility before significant commitments are made.

These early investigations ensure technical, regulatory, and environmental factors are fully understood to establish a secure foundation for every subsequent stage of the design process.

See Some Of Our Recent Architectural Projects

Feasibility Studies & Option Appraisals

Feasibility is about exploring what is achievable before any major investment.

We test multiple design and delivery options through close collaboration between project managers, engineers, and cost consultants whilst considering planning policy, statutory requirements, environmental impact, buildability, budget, and programme implications.

Each option is evaluated for risk, cost, and practicality, which allows clients to make informed choices with clarity.

Our advice highlights the strongest solutions while anticipating potential challenges. This early decision-making process reduces risk and streamlines the path into design development, providing confidence that the chosen option is viable and aligned with the project’s objectives.

Explore Our Cost Management Services

Developed Design

Once the preferred option is confirmed, the design evolves into a fully coordinated proposal. Layouts, materials, and building services are refined to ensure all elements integrate smoothly, balancing creativity, functionality, and buildability.

Architects lead this integration, collaborating closely with Structural, Civil, and MEP Engineers, to ensure every element is aligned with budget and programme objectives.

By resolving technical issues before construction begins, we reduce risk for contractors and give clients a clear, executable plan.

Every decision is made to ensure the project meets programme objectives and budget while preserving design intent.

Explore A Recent Office Fit-Out

Planning Submissions More

Technical Design More

Sustainable Design More

Planning Submissions

Planning submissions transform the design into a compelling case for approval. Our approach combines clear narratives, detailed visuals, and evidence-based strategies from the wider team to communicate the project vision while meeting policy requirements.

Early identification of potential obstacles allows us to provide solutions in advance, streamlining the approval process.

By proactively engaging with local authorities and stakeholders, we ensure proposals are transparent, aligned with community expectations, and resilient to scrutiny.

Clients gain confidence that their project can progress efficiently, with planning applications supported by strong technical and environmental input from our engineers.

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Technical Design

The technical design phase turns concept into a buildable reality.

Detailed drawings, specifications, and schedules are developed to guide construction, with every decision reviewed against budget, programme, and procurement strategy.

By anticipating technical challenges and coordinating all elements in advance, we reduce on-site risk and provide contractors with clarity and confidence.

This approach ensures the design is executable to the highest standard while maintaining cost control and programme efficiency.

Explore Our Structural & Civil Engineering Services

Sustainable Design

Sustainability is embedded at the core of every project. We evaluate energy efficiency, carbon impact, materials, and building performance to create designs that are efficient and comfortable, yet environmentally responsible.

Renewable technologies, low-carbon systems, and circular construction principles are considered from the outset to meet current regulations and anticipate future standards.

Our designs deliver measurable performance gains, balancing operational efficiency with long-term resilience.

By integrating sustainability into every stage, we create buildings that are not only compliant but capable of adapting to evolving environmental demands.

See More On Sustainability

Our Architectural Services Include:

Master Planning
3D Modelling, Visualisation, and CGIs
High-Rise Building Designs
Statutory Applications

Listed Building Consent
Interior Design
Principal Designer (CDM)
Building Information Modelling (BIM)

Space Planning
Conservation Design
Construction Procurement
Contract Administration

What Our Architectural Clients Say About Us

“We are absolutely thrilled with our wonderful new facility. You used our limited funds to excellent advantage and we have ended up with a library that is fully functional, spacious, practical, and inspirational. The fact that you took ownership of the project put so much time and effort into it and made a personal commitment to making all the components come together so successfully, ensured that we felt safe under your leadership.”

Henrietta Barnett School, Mrs SD Cooke Headteacher

“I have been extremely impressed with the whole process from beginning to end. Barker’s team listened to our design brief and provided us with a solution that met all of our criteria. It has been a pleasure to work with such a professional team and I would not hesitate in recommending Barker Associates to other schools.”

Pear Tree Mead Academy, Harlow, Mrs Peden Headteacher

“Working with Barker through the design phase of this project has been a very positive experience.”

Marketfield School, Executive Head

“Barker’s architects gave us very good guidance from developing the initial concept, working within our budget to selecting and dealing with the building contractors. The team was always available, extremely helpful, and we never felt alone. We were very pleased with Barker and found them extremely professional.”

Mercer & Hughes Ltd, Seamus Mone, Director

“We have been working successfully and are very pleased with the service they have provided across all disciplines including Architectural Design services and Structural/Civil Engineering Design services. We are looking forward to a continued successful working relationship with Barker in the future.”

TLC Care Homes

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Architecture Team Key Contacts

Richard Paynter, RIBA

Partner

Richard is a Partner at Barker and leads the Architecture Department. He is dual-qualified as(…)

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Sebastian Pitman, ARB

Associate Partner Architect

Sebastian has over 16 years of experience delivering high-end architectural design and managi(…)

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Juan Martinez, RIBA

Associate Conservation Architect

Juan is a registered RIBA Conservation Architect who, through the years, has developed a part(…)

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Relevant Projects

City of London Academy – New Basketball Hall

Client: City of London Academy
Location: London
Sector: Education

A Modern Office Fit-Out for a National Education Trust

Client: Anonymous
Location: London
Sector: Commercial & Education

Swift House – Office Refurbishment

Client: Rebel Construction
Location: Chelmsford, Essex
Sector: Commercial

Dame Alice Owen’s – Sports Hall Rebuild (Up to Stage 3)

Client: Dame Alice Owen's
Location: Hertfordshire
Sector: Education

Belfairs Academy – Two Form Entry Expansion

Client: Legra Trust
Location: Leigh-on-Sea

Barker – Office Refurbishment

Client: Barker
Location: Braintree, Essex
Sector: Commercial

See More Architectural Projects

Got a project in mind?
Let’s bring that vision to life.

Our experience and vision have shaped hundreds of projects across sectors, from energy and funding to architecture and design, helping bring ideas to life.

(+44) 0330 441 6930

info@barker-associates.co.uk