Business Details
31 Years
experience
Your Trusted Richmond Architects for Bespoke Design Solutions
Established in 1995, McDaniel Woolf is a Richmond-based architectural practice renowned for its bespoke approach to design and construction. Our expertise spans residential, commercial, and conservation projects, with a philosophy rooted in responding to context and client needs rather than imposing stylistic conventions. With decades of collective experience, including Richard Woolf's 20-year collaboration with Muji and Fiona McDaniel's background in retail and workplace design, we deliver spaces that harmonise functionality with aesthetic innovation. Our work encompasses historic building conservation, new-build commissions, and adaptive reuse projects across the UK and Europe.As RIBA-registered architects and members of the Association for Studies in the Conservation of Historic Buildings, we combine technical precision with creative vision. From modest interventions to large-scale developments, our team prioritises material integrity, spatial fluidity, and environmental sensitivity. We maintain strong relationships with local authorities and planning bodies to ensure regulatory compliance while pushing design boundaries. Our portfolio demonstrates a commitment to creating environments that enhance living, working, and community experiences through thoughtful architectural solutions.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Conservation
Residential Projects
Commercial Projects
Planning Consultancy
Heritage Assessment
Project Management
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- 25+ years of architectural expertise since 1995
- Bespoke service tailored to client requirements
- RIBA-registered architects with conservation specialism
- Proven track record with historic building adaptations
- Multidisciplinary team handling full project lifecycles
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- ASCHB
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service creates tailored solutions for new-build and renovation projects. We specialise in balancing aesthetic innovation with technical functionality, delivering spaces that respond to client needs and environmental context. The team handles projects from initial concept through to construction, ensuring compliance with planning regulations while maintaining design integrity. Our approach combines traditional craftsmanship with modern construction techniques to create enduring architectural solutions.
Interior Design
Interior design services focus on creating functional and aesthetically cohesive environments. We develop spatial layouts that optimise usage while maintaining architectural harmony with building exteriors. Our expertise includes material specification, lighting design, and bespoke furniture creation. The team works across residential, commercial, and heritage projects, ensuring interior solutions meet both practical requirements and aesthetic aspirations through a collaborative client-focused process.
Conservation
Specialist conservation services address the preservation and adaptive reuse of historic buildings. We conduct detailed heritage assessments and develop sensitive interventions that maintain architectural integrity while meeting modern requirements. The practice has extensive experience with listed buildings and conservation areas, working closely with local authorities to secure planning approvals. Our approach combines traditional building techniques with contemporary design solutions for historic structures.
Residential Projects
Residential project services cover new-build homes, extensions, and property renovations. We create living spaces that balance practicality with design innovation, from single-room remodelling to complete house transformations. The team manages all aspects including planning applications, building regulations, and contractor coordination. Our expertise extends to sustainable design solutions and accessibility adaptations, ensuring homes meet contemporary living standards while respecting architectural context.
Commercial Projects
Commercial architecture services cater to office spaces, retail environments, and mixed-use developments. We design functional spaces that enhance business operations while creating positive user experiences. The practice has particular expertise in retail design through long-term collaborations with international brands. Our approach integrates brand identity with spatial planning, addressing both operational requirements and aesthetic presentation across various commercial sectors.
People
Fiona McDaniel
Interior Designer & Co-Founder
Fiona McDaniel co-founded McDaniel Woolf after gaining experience in retail and workplace design for major clients like Asda and Coca Cola. She manages interior design projects and planning applications while overseeing office operations. With a background in graphic design and digital media, she brings multidisciplinary expertise to the practice.
Richard Woolf
Architect & Co-Founder
Richard Woolf co-founded the practice in 1995 following architectural studies at the Architectural Association. He leads design direction and has particular expertise in conservation and product design. As Muji's executive architect for 20 years, he developed their European retail network while maintaining academic involvement through RIBA Studio programmes.
Questions
What architectural styles does McDaniel Woolf specialise in?
We don't follow specific styles but create context-sensitive designs that respond to site conditions and client needs. Our work ranges from minimalist modern builds to sensitive historic building adaptations.
Do you handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, we work across residential, commercial, and community sectors with equal expertise, delivering tailored solutions for each project type and client requirement.
How experienced are you with listed building consents?
We have extensive experience with Grade II and Grade I listed buildings, maintaining membership in the Association for Studies in the Conservation of Historic Buildings (ASCHB).
Can you manage full project lifecycles?
Our services cover all stages from initial concept development through planning, design, and construction management to final project delivery.
Do you work outside the Richmond area?
While based in Richmond, we undertake projects across London, the UK, and Europe, with recent work completed in Germany and various European locations.
