Business Details
18 Years
experience
Sustainable Architects in Surbiton | The Cave
The Cave is an award-winning architectural practice with over 15 years of experience, specialising in sustainable design and natural building materials. As a RIBA-chartered firm, we prioritise environmental stewardship and human well-being through innovative solutions that maximise the potential of every project. Our team combines technical expertise with a collaborative approach, ensuring clients' visions are translated into high-quality, energy-efficient buildings that exceed expectations. We are committed to reducing carbon footprints while creating bespoke spaces that harmonise with their surroundings. Our work spans residential, community, and public projects, reflecting our dedication to social sustainability and community engagement.With a focus on materials like straw, earth, timber, and stone, we deliver designs that are both functional and aesthetically striking. Our process emphasises clear communication, transparency, and client involvement at every stage. This philosophy extends to our partnerships with contractors and community groups, fostering long-term relationships built on mutual respect. We are pioneers in natural retrofitting and circular economy principles, advocating for buildings that adapt to future needs. Recognised for excellence in sustainable architecture, we continue to push boundaries while maintaining affordability and practicality for our clients.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Eco-Friendly Design
Community Engagement
Building Consultancy
Natural Materials
Retrofit Solutions
Planning Applications
Contract Administration
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We are RIBA-chartered architects with 15+ years of experience in sustainable design
- Our team specialises in natural building materials like straw, cob, and timber
- We prioritise community engagement in public and commercial projects
- We offer tailored architectural services from initial survey to project completion
- Our designs combine energy efficiency with aesthetic innovation
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
What people say
Superb plans with attention to detail
Contemporary functional design
Creative cost-efficient solutions
Transformed property successfully
Excellent community projects
Services
Sustainable Architecture
We create energy-efficient buildings using natural materials like straw, timber, and cob. Our approach prioritises environmental impact reduction while ensuring aesthetic appeal and functionality. Clients benefit from bespoke designs that meet modern sustainability standards and enhance long-term building performance.
Community Engagement
We facilitate community involvement through workshops and meetings for public projects. This ensures local needs are addressed in developments ranging from housing to urban masterplans. Our process builds trust and creates socially sustainable outcomes that communities embrace.
Natural Materials
We specialise in construction using strawbale, cob, and reclaimed materials. These low-impact solutions provide excellent thermal performance while reducing environmental footprint. Our expertise ensures durable, healthy buildings that align with circular economy principles.
Retrofit Solutions
We transform existing structures using natural retrofit techniques. Our approach improves energy efficiency while preserving architectural heritage. Services include insulation upgrades, material replacements, and adaptive reuse strategies for residential and commercial properties.
Planning Applications
We navigate complex planning processes with local authorities. Our team secures approvals for challenging projects, including appeals and enforcement cases. Clients benefit from our deep understanding of policy requirements and successful submission strategies.
People
Liz Crisp
Architect, Director and Co-founder
RIBA-chartered architect with 15+ years' experience in sustainable design. Specialises in natural materials and conservation projects. Co-founder of The Cave and former guest critic at University of Essex.
Vera Hale
Architect and Co-founder
Experienced in community-led architecture and social sustainability. Graduated with honours from TU Delft. Specialises in public projects and urban regeneration. Previously taught at Delft Technical University.
Rosaly Kortz
Senior Architect
16-year veteran in healthcare, education, and housing projects. Certified in domestic retrofit and natural building techniques. Combines accessibility expertise with sustainable design principles across UK and German projects.
Ruhaida Mohd Shah
Architectural Assistant
Qualified Part 1 and Part 2 architect with experience in residential and commercial projects. Focuses on vernacular architecture and climate-responsive design. Brings multicultural perspective from Malaysian heritage and UK studies.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full architectural services including design, planning applications, building regulations, contract administration, and sustainability consultancy for residential, commercial, and community projects.
Do you specialise in sustainable building materials?
Yes, we specialise in natural materials like strawbale, cob, timber, and reclaimed materials. Our expertise ensures energy-efficient, low-impact constructions that meet modern sustainability standards.
Can you work on listed buildings or conservation projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with conservation projects and listed buildings. Our team combines heritage preservation with sustainable upgrades to meet modern requirements.
Do you work outside London?
We work throughout the South East and accept interesting projects nationwide. Our team travels to client locations when required for project success.
How do you involve clients in the design process?
We use interactive design sessions to ensure client input at every stage. This collaborative approach ensures designs reflect clients' needs while maintaining technical excellence.
What sustainability accreditations do you hold?
We are RIBA-chartered architects with team members certified in domestic retrofit and natural building techniques. Our practice follows circular economy principles in all projects.
