Business Details
Award-Winning Architects in Cheshire
WhiteBox Architecture is an award-winning RIBA chartered architectural practice with offices in Knutsford, Cheshire, and Heswall, Wirral. We specialise in luxury residential and imaginative commercial projects across Cheshire and the UK, with particular expertise in greenbelt developments, open countryside projects, barn conversions, and listed buildings. Our team brings over 20 years of combined experience in delivering high-end residential schemes, new build homes, and commercial fit-outs for international clients in London, Manchester, and Liverpool. We adopt a collaborative approach, working closely with clients, consultants, and contractors to ensure projects meet exacting standards of design, workmanship, and attention to detail. Our portfolio includes extensions, replacement dwellings, multi-unit developments, and retail fit-outs, all tailored to individual client needs.We pride ourselves on exceeding design expectations while maintaining strict adherence to budgets and timelines. Our technical expertise extends to planning permissions, development consultancy, and CGI visualisations that help clients and planners visualise projects at every stage. With a track record of repeat business and client recommendations, we prioritise honest relationships and bespoke solutions. Our team includes RIBA chartered architects and experienced architectural technologists who bring both creative vision and technical precision to every project. From initial concept through to completion, we guide clients through every step of the architectural process, ensuring seamless delivery of exceptional spaces.
Services
Extensions
New Build Homes
Commercial Projects
Development Consultancy
Planning Permission
Project Management
CGI Visualisations
Highlights and features
- 20+ years' experience in luxury residential and commercial architecture
- Bespoke solutions tailored to individual client needs and site contexts
- RIBA chartered practice with technical and creative excellence
- Proven track record in complex planning permissions and greenbelt developments
- Collaborative approach with dedicated project management throughout the UK
Associations and certifications
- RIBA Chartered Architects
Services
Extensions
We design and deliver extensions that enhance property value and living spaces. Our approach prioritises individual client lifestyles, creating functional yet aesthetically striking additions. From initial concept to completion, we ensure seamless integration with existing structures while meeting planning requirements across Cheshire and the UK.
New Build Homes
Our new build homes respond to their unique settings, whether urban or rural. Each project combines innovative design with practical living requirements, ensuring spaces that evolve with client needs. We specialise in high-end residential architecture that balances luxury with long-term usability across the UK.
Commercial Projects
We create imaginative commercial spaces for office and retail environments. With extensive experience in London, Manchester, and Liverpool, our projects combine brand identity with functional design. We deliver solutions for international clients seeking impactful commercial developments.
Planning Permission
Our expertise includes securing planning permissions for challenging sites, including greenbelt areas and listed buildings. We provide strategic advice on replacement dwellings, barn conversions, and Paragraph 80 houses, leveraging deep knowledge of UK planning regulations to maximise project viability.
Development Consultancy
We advise developers on maximising site potential through planning gain and strategic improvements. Our consultancy services cover feasibility studies, regulatory compliance, and creative solutions to increase land value while ensuring profitable, people-centric developments across the UK.
People
Ivor Smits
Managing Director
With over 20 years' experience in residential and commercial architecture, Ivor leads projects with a focus on client collaboration. He ensures projects meet exacting standards while maintaining budgets and timelines. His approach has secured numerous repeat clients and industry recognition.
Ashley
Architectural Technologist
Responsible for technical project delivery, Ashley specialises in Revit BIM and construction details. He brings precision to structural schemes while continuously learning new techniques. His work ensures technical excellence across all WhiteBox projects, from concept to completion.
James Waterhouse
Associate Architect
A RIBA chartered architect with over a decade of experience, James balances cost, quality, and timelines in project delivery. He mentors team members while managing complex residential and commercial schemes. His expertise spans diverse project scales and budgets across the UK.
Alex Wood
Architect
Currently developing his professional profile, Alex contributes to architectural design and project execution. He works closely with senior team members to refine technical and creative aspects of projects, ensuring alignment with client expectations and industry standards.
Questions
What areas do you cover?
We operate throughout Cheshire and the UK, with particular expertise in Alderley Edge, Hale, Wilmslow, Knutsford, and London's commercial sectors.
Do you handle listed building projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with listed buildings and sensitive heritage sites across the UK.
Can you assist with planning permissions?
Our team specialises in securing planning permissions, including complex cases in greenbelt areas and for barn conversions.
What project sizes do you handle?
We work on projects of all scales, from small extensions to large commercial developments and multi-unit housing schemes.
How do you ensure project quality?
Through RIBA chartered standards, technical precision, and regular client collaboration throughout the design and build process.
Do you offer CGI visualisations?
Yes, we provide photorealistic CGI visualisations to help clients and planners understand our designs before construction begins.
