Business Details
16 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architects & Interior Designers
McLaren Excell is an award-winning architectural and interior design practice founded in 2010 by Luke McLaren and Robert Excell. Our practice combines rigorous design thinking with hands-on craftsmanship, delivering buildings and interiors that reflect both functional precision and aesthetic clarity. We specialise in private residential and commercial projects, working closely with clients to create spaces that respond to their unique needs while maintaining a strong conceptual vision. Our team brings deep technical expertise and a passion for sustainable design, with notable experience in historic building conservation and innovative reuse.The practice has earned recognition for its ability to blend modern interventions with historic contexts, evidenced by our involvement in landmark projects such as the Tate Gallery in St Ives and London Bridge Station redevelopment. We maintain long-term relationships with trusted artisans and contractors, ensuring every project achieves exacting standards of quality and detail.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Architecture
Residential Projects
Commercial Refurbishment
Heritage Conservation
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We have over 15 years of experience in architectural design and historic building conservation
- Our team includes specialists in BREEAM and LEED certified sustainable design
- We combine modern design with technical expertise in heritage structures
- Our directors personally oversee projects from concept to completion
- We maintain partnerships with trusted artisans for bespoke interior elements
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service focuses on creating buildings with conceptual clarity and material integrity. We specialise in new constructions and adaptations of existing structures, combining modern aesthetics with functional requirements. Our process emphasises collaboration with clients and consultants to deliver buildings that respond to their context and usage needs.
Interior Architecture
We craft interiors that balance calm sophistication with practical functionality. Our approach integrates architectural elements with bespoke furnishings, using natural materials like stone, timber, and textiles. Each space is designed to evolve through daily use, offering subtle details that reveal themselves over time.
Heritage Conservation
Specialised in preserving architectural heritage while implementing modern improvements. Our team has expertise in working with listed buildings and conservation areas, maintaining original character while meeting contemporary standards. Recent projects include sensitive adaptations of Art Deco landmarks and rural historic structures.
Commercial Refurbishment
We transform commercial spaces to enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal. Our service covers workspace redesign, retail environments, and hospitality venues. Focused on sustainable solutions, we maximise existing assets while creating adaptable spaces for modern business requirements.
Residential Projects
From townhouse renovations to countryside retreats, we create residences that reflect personal lifestyles. Our expertise spans extensions, conversions, and full-scale new builds. Each project prioritises natural light, spatial flow, and craftsmanship to produce enduring living environments.
People
Luke McLaren
Director
Co-founder with expertise in construction detailing and architectural craftsmanship. Trained at Cambridge University and London Metropolitan University, previously worked on Tate Gallery St Ives project.
Robert Excell
Director
Co-founder specialising in building reuse and adaptive design. Qualified at Kingston University, brings experience from retail and hospitality sector projects including Reiss and Fenwick developments.
Chris Savva
Managing Director
Leads complex projects with focus on sustainable design. Former Grimshaw architect and London Bridge Station project leader, accredited in BREEAM, LEED and WELL standards.
Laura Gutierrez de Carlos
Associate
Specialises in historic building adaptation and interior design. Brings expertise in material selection and artisan collaboration for residential and commercial projects across diverse scales.
George Kneale
Associate
Commercial retrofit specialist with focus on Art Deco restoration. Oversees projects from concept to completion, balancing modern interventions with historic preservation requirements.
Questions
What types of architectural projects do you specialise in?
We focus on residential schemes including houses and apartments, alongside commercial projects covering offices, retail spaces, and cultural buildings.
Do you work outside London?
While based in London, we undertake projects across the UK including the Cotswolds, Surrey, Oxfordshire and Cambridge, with international experience.
How do you approach historic building projects?
We combine conservation expertise with modern design solutions, maintaining historic integrity while improving functionality for contemporary use.
What services do you provide from concept to completion?
We offer full architectural services including feasibility studies, planning applications, detailed design, and construction management oversight.
How do you ensure sustainability in your designs?
Our approach incorporates energy-efficient systems, material reuse where possible, and achieving environmental standards like BREEAM and LEED certifications.
Can you handle both new builds and renovations?
Yes, our portfolio includes contemporary new constructions alongside adaptive reuse projects transforming existing buildings for modern purposes.
