Business Details
43 Years
experience
Your Trusted RIBA Chartered Architects in Carlisle
Established in 1983, Black Box Architects brings over four decades of expertise to architectural design, having completed more than 1,000 projects across the UK. As RIBA Chartered Architects, we combine technical proficiency with a client-centric approach, prioritising active listening to address complex briefs. Our work spans commercial, domestic, heritage, and interior architecture, with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and contextual sensitivity.Recognised with design awards, our practice balances creative vision with practical solutions, ensuring projects endure both functionally and aesthetically. We collaborate closely with engineers and contractors to deliver cohesive, buildable designs, maintaining transparency and ethical standards throughout the process.
Services
Commercial Architecture
Domestic Architecture
Heritage Projects
Interior Architecture
Architectural Consultancy
Details
- Year established: 1983
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in architectural design.
- Our portfolio includes 1,000+ completed projects nationwide.
- We hold multiple design awards for innovation and detailing.
- Our process prioritises client collaboration and active listening.
- We specialise in sustainable, context-sensitive architectural solutions.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
What people say
Award-winning designs
Technical expertise
Client-focused approach
Attention to detail
Successful project delivery
Services
Commercial Architecture
We design functional, future-proof commercial buildings tailored to business objectives. Our approach integrates urban context, sustainability, and technical precision to create adaptable workspaces. Clients benefit from our 40-year track record in delivering cost-effective, innovative solutions for evolving commercial needs.
Domestic Architecture
From new builds to bespoke renovations, we craft homes that harmonise with their surroundings. Our designs prioritise natural light, spatial flow, and material longevity. With 1,000+ completed projects, we transform living spaces while maintaining strict adherence to budgetary and environmental considerations.
Heritage Projects
Specialising in sensitive restoration of listed buildings and barn conversions, we balance historical integrity with modern functionality. Our expertise includes reinstating period features and upgrading thermal performance without compromising architectural authenticity across Cumbria and beyond.
Interior Architecture
We create purposeful interior environments through structural interventions and material innovation. Our work extends beyond decoration to optimise spatial dynamics, lighting, and user experience. Recent projects include hospitality spaces and heritage interiors requiring concealed technical integration.
Architectural Consultancy
Offering strategic guidance from concept to completion, we provide feasibility studies, planning applications, and construction oversight. Our consultancy leverages decades of technical knowledge to resolve complex challenges while maintaining design integrity and regulatory compliance.
People
Malcolm Wilson
Director
RIBA Chartered Architect with 40+ years' experience, specialising in urban design and private housing. Former director of Brighton and Mayfair practices, he holds Civic Trust awards and contributes to architectural publications.
Chris Day
Director
RIBA Chartered Architect since 2009, specialising in research-driven design and private housing. Became Director in 2020, bringing expertise in sustainable construction methods and urban planning to the practice.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide commercial, domestic, heritage, and interior architecture services, along with consultancy for planning and construction oversight.
How long have you been in practice?
We've been operating since 1983, completing over 1,000 projects across the UK with our RIBA Chartered team.
Do you handle listed building projects?
Yes, we specialise in heritage architecture, including Grade 2 Listed properties and barn conversions requiring planning authority collaboration.
What areas do you cover?
Primarily Cumbria and North West England, though we undertake projects nationwide, particularly for heritage and commercial clients.
How do you approach sustainability?
We integrate passive design principles, solar energy, and airtightness strategies to create energy-efficient buildings aligned with modern environmental standards.
