Business Details
Award-Winning Architects in Exeter
Hilton Barnfield is an award-winning local architecture practice based in Exeter, Devon, delivering a highly personal, creative, and professional service. With a dedicated team of architects, we approach every project with enthusiasm and a commitment to producing innovative solutions that maximise added value for our clients. Our philosophy is driven by a desire to enhance and benefit from the local environment, designing buildings that maintain a strong relationship with their surroundings while minimising environmental impact. We specialise in new builds, extensions, refurbishments, and masterplanning, with expertise in Passivhaus design to ensure energy-efficient solutions. Our portfolio includes work on historic, listed, and contemporary structures, reflecting our adaptability and technical skill.Clients praise our ability to translate visions into exceptional spaces, as evidenced by recent accolades such as Best Residential Project of the Year. We prioritise collaboration, offering free initial consultations and maintaining transparency throughout the design process. Our team combines technical excellence with a passion for creating spaces that are both functional and aesthetically striking, ensuring each project meets the unique needs of its users. Sustainability is central to our approach, integrating eco-friendly materials and methods to deliver low-impact buildings. With over a decade of experience in the industry, we have established a reputation for excellence in both residential and commercial architecture.
Services
Architectural Design
Home Extensions
Eco Refurbishments
Masterplanning
Passivhaus Projects
Highlights and features
- We have over a decade of experience in residential and commercial architecture across Devon
- Our team holds Passivhaus design certification for energy-efficient buildings
- Award-winning practice recognised for innovation in 2023
- Specialists in working with historic and listed buildings
- Commitment to environmentally responsible design with measurable carbon reduction strategies
What people say
Exceptional house design
Award-winning expertise
Eco-friendly solutions
Creative vision
Strong local knowledge
Services
Architectural Design
We create bespoke architectural solutions tailored to clients' needs and site contexts. Our services cover residential and commercial projects from concept to completion. With expertise in sustainable design and Passivhaus standards, we deliver innovative spaces that balance aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility.
Home Extensions
Specialists in designing and managing home extension projects across Devon. We transform existing spaces while maintaining structural integrity and visual harmony. Our approach ensures seamless integration with original architecture, particularly for historic and listed buildings, while maximising natural light and modern living requirements.
Eco Refurbishments
Comprehensive refurbishment services focused on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability. We upgrade outdated buildings with modern insulation, renewable energy systems, and eco-friendly materials. Our team specialises in retrofitting period properties to meet contemporary standards without compromising their character.
Masterplanning
Strategic masterplanning for residential developments and mixed-use sites. We create cohesive visions that address spatial relationships, environmental impact, and community needs. Our expertise spans from small-scale infill projects to district-wide strategic plans that balance growth with sustainability.
Passivhaus Projects
Certified Passivhaus design services for ultra-low energy buildings. We apply rigorous thermal performance standards to create comfortable, cost-effective spaces with minimal environmental impact. Our expertise covers both new constructions and retrofits, ensuring compliance with international sustainability benchmarks.
People
James Barnfield
Director
James leads our architectural team with over 15 years' experience in sustainable design. He specialises in complex residential projects and historic building conversions, combining technical precision with creative vision to deliver award-winning schemes across the South West.
Judit Szajcz
Senior Architectural Assistant
Judit brings expertise in eco-renovation and Passivhaus standards to our projects. With a background in both commercial and residential architecture, she plays a key role in developing detailed designs that balance environmental performance with aesthetic quality across our portfolio.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full architectural services including new builds, extensions, refurbishments, and masterplanning. Our expertise covers residential, commercial, and heritage projects with a focus on sustainable design.
Do you specialise in eco-friendly architecture?
Yes, we're certified in Passivhaus design and integrate sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems into all projects. Our approach minimises environmental impact while maximising building performance.
Can you work with listed buildings?
We have extensive experience with historic and listed buildings, having completed multiple sensitive renovations and extensions that preserve architectural heritage while meeting modern requirements.
How do you involve clients in the design process?
We offer free initial consultations and maintain regular communication through design workshops, 3D visualisations, and progress updates to ensure your vision shapes every stage of the project.
What areas do you cover?
Based in Exeter, we work across Devon and the South West. Recent projects include schemes in Topsham, Lympstone, and Exeter, with experience adapting to diverse local planning contexts.
How do I start a project?
Contact us for a free initial consultation to discuss your ideas. We'll assess your needs, site potential, and budget before developing tailored design proposals and project timelines.
