Business Details
43 Years
experience
Award-Winning RIBA Chartered Architects in Berkshire
MW Architects (MWA) is a RIBA chartered architectural practice founded in 1983, with over 40 years of experience delivering bespoke design solutions across residential, commercial, and heritage sectors. Our work prioritises client needs, reflected in the high proportion of referral-based projects. We specialise in navigating complex planning environments, including Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and have extensive expertise in listed buildings, barn conversions, and equestrian architecture. Our team combines technical excellence with creative problem-solving, offering services from initial consultation to contract administration.We maintain a personal approach, visiting sites before providing fee proposals to ensure tailored solutions. With offices in Berkshire, Hampshire, and Wiltshire, we serve clients across southern England, blending sustainability with sensitivity to historical contexts. Our communication methods, including 3D visualisation, enhance client understanding and project success.
Services
New Homes
Extensions
Listed Building Extensions
Barn Conversions
Commercial Architecture
Equestrian Architecture
Planning Applications
Heritage Projects
Sustainable Design
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We have 40+ years of experience in residential and heritage architecture.
- Our practice maintains RIBA chartered status for professional excellence.
- We specialise in complex planning applications within AONBs and conservation areas.
- Client referrals account for the majority of our new projects.
- Our personal service includes site visits before providing fee proposals.
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
What people say
Amazing bespoke environments
Highly recommend
Thrilled with outcome
Excellent communication
Transformed lives
Services
Heritage Architecture
Specialists in working with Grade II listed buildings and conservation areas, combining historical sensitivity with modern functionality. Our team holds advanced qualifications in historic building conservation, ensuring compliance with planning requirements while preserving architectural integrity. We have completed numerous projects involving sensitive extensions and renovations that respect original structures while meeting contemporary needs.
Bespoke Residential Design
Creating tailored residential solutions from new builds to property transformations. We focus on maximising site potential through innovative layouts and material choices. Our approach considers natural light, spatial flow, and environmental sustainability, delivering homes that reflect individual client lifestyles while maintaining strong aesthetic and functional value across Berkshire and surrounding regions.
Equestrian Architecture
Specialist design services for equine facilities including training yards, stables, and visitor centres. With deep local knowledge of equestrian requirements, we create functional spaces that balance practicality with architectural quality. Our portfolio includes projects for World Horse Welfare and private racing establishments, demonstrating expertise in both large-scale developments and smaller property adaptations.
Planning Consultancy
Expert guidance through complex planning processes, particularly in AONBs and areas with challenging planning histories. We prepare detailed feasibility studies and presentation materials to support applications, leveraging 40+ years of experience negotiating with local authorities. Our track record includes successful permitted development applications for agricultural conversions and replacement dwellings.
Commercial Architecture
Designing functional commercial spaces tailored to business needs, from office conversions to community facilities. We balance aesthetic appeal with practical requirements, ensuring compliance with commercial building regulations. Recent projects include educational facilities, health centres, and mixed-use developments that integrate seamlessly with their surroundings while meeting specific operational demands.
People
Howard Waters
Partner
RIBA Chartered Architect with MSc in Conservation of Historic Buildings. Specialises in listed building projects since 1988. Governor of Wiltshire Historic Buildings Trust. Combines technical expertise with deep understanding of heritage assets and their settings.
Andrew Bray
Partner
Over 20 years' experience in residential, commercial, and listed building projects. Former Senior Associate at Sutton Griffin Architects. Expertise in translating client briefs into design-led solutions while managing technical and legislative frameworks for successful project delivery.
Adrian Rouse
Partner
RIBA Chartered Architect with extensive experience across retail, healthcare, and residential sectors. Focuses on ensuring client requirements are met throughout projects. Combines practical site knowledge with contractual expertise to deliver smooth project execution and high-quality architectural outcomes.
Duncan Mathewson
Founding Partner
Established the practice in 1983. Over 30 years' experience as Chartered Architect. Specialises in bespoke design solutions tailored to client requirements. Presents seminars to Local Planning Authorities and maintains active consultancy role despite official retirement.
Andrew Klemz
Architect
Based in Whitchurch studio, specialising in listed building and residential projects. Experienced in both private and public sector work. Combines design expertise with practical knowledge of re-modelling historic buildings within broader urban development contexts.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in bespoke residential design, heritage architecture, equestrian facilities, commercial projects, and planning consultancy for complex sites.
Do you work outside the Berkshire area?
While based in Berkshire, we work across Hampshire, Wiltshire, Oxfordshire, and the North Wessex AONB, with experience in challenging planning environments.
How do you handle listed building projects?
Our team includes specialists with MSc qualifications in historic building conservation, ensuring sensitive yet functional adaptations that meet planning requirements.
What is your approach to new home design?
We create tailored designs considering site orientation, natural light, and client lifestyles, combining modern functionality with architectural quality.
Can you assist with planning applications in AONBs?
Yes, we have 35+ years' experience securing planning permission in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, including replacement dwellings and agricultural conversions.
Do you offer commercial architecture services?
Yes, we design commercial spaces including office conversions, health centres, and mixed-use developments tailored to business requirements.
