Business Details
16 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Ilkley
Established in 2010, Overton Architects combines a rich legacy of architectural expertise with modern innovation. Our practice was founded by Mike Overton following the restructuring of Wales, Wales & Rawson, retaining their archival records dating back to the 19th century. Our team brings decades of collective experience across diverse sectors, including ecclesiastical and historic building conservation, residential developments, and community projects. We are committed to delivering tailored, client-focused solutions, from minor renovations to complex new builds, ensuring meticulous attention to detail and adherence to heritage standards. Our professionals, including RIBA members and AABC-accredited experts, specialize in balancing traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design.We prioritize understanding each client's unique needs, offering informed advice and project management from inception to completion. With a focus on sustainability and conservation, we address both private and public sector requirements, including carbon-zero strategies. Our portfolio spans iconic churches, listed buildings, educational facilities, and bespoke housing across West Yorkshire and beyond. Recognized for our expertise in heritage projects, we work closely with diocesan committees and conservation trusts. Overton Architects remains dedicated to fostering long-term client relationships built on trust, transparency, and technical excellence, ensuring every project reflects both functional and aesthetic excellence.
Services
Church Reordering
Historic Building Restoration
Residential Extensions
Conservation Projects
Community Developments
Details
- Year established: 2010
Highlights and features
- We provide tailored architectural solutions for heritage and modern projects since 2010.
- Our team includes RIBA members and AABC-accredited conservation specialists.
- Extensive experience in ecclesiastical, residential, and community developments.
- We maintain a legacy of 19th-century archival knowledge for informed design decisions.
- Proven expertise in securing Heritage Lottery Fund grants for restoration projects.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- Architects Accredited in Building Conservation (AABC)
What people say
Expert conservation knowledge
Professional project management
Attentive to client needs
Preserved historical details
Services
Church Reordering
We specialize in re-ordering and restoring churches, combining structural integrity with liturgical functionality. Our team, including diocesan lighting advisors, ensures preservation of historical features while meeting modern accessibility requirements. Projects span Grade I-listed buildings across Leeds and Blackburn dioceses, focusing on sustainable materials and community engagement.
Historic Building Restoration
Our conservation expertise maintains architectural authenticity in listed buildings and almshouses. We employ traditional techniques alongside modern methods for structural reinforcement and weatherproofing. Accredited professionals collaborate with trusts and committees to safeguard cultural heritage for future generations.
Residential Extensions
We design bespoke residential extensions prioritizing spatial efficiency and aesthetic harmony. Services include two-storey additions, accessible renovations, and cottage conversions across Ilkley, Bradford, and Settle. Each project balances client vision with local planning regulations.
Community Developments
Our community-focused projects encompass schools, children's centres, and rescue facilities. We create functional, inclusive spaces that address local needs while maintaining architectural coherence. Recent work includes Frizinghall Children's Centre and Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Centre.
New Build Projects
We deliver custom new-build schemes from concept to completion, including Saltaire United Reformed Church and Norton Conyers Clock Tower. Our approach integrates site-specific design, material selection, and compliance with conservation area guidelines for cohesive outcomes.
People
Mike Overton
Partner
RIBA member with 35 years' experience, specializing in ecclesiastical architecture. Served as Wales, Wales & Rawson partner since 1999 and advises Blackburn Diocesan Committee on church lighting. Leads complex conservation projects across Northern England.
Sheila Overton
Partner
Postgraduate conservation specialist with 20+ years in new build and restoration projects. Joined practice in 2002 after roles at Allen Todd and Bauman Lyons. Focus areas include educational facilities and historic residential adaptations.
Liz Haestier
Associate Architect
RIBA architect since 2004 with dual expertise in conservation and community projects. Active on Leeds Diocesan Art & Architecture Committee and Historic Churches Committee. AABC-accredited for Grade I listed building interventions.
Tony Keeble
Associate Architect
AABC-registered conservation specialist with 15 years in ecclesiastical work. Former Blackburn with Darwen conservation officer, handling numerous church restorations across Northern dioceses. Appointed associate in 2025 for outstanding heritage contributions.
Bill Glaister
Consultant Architect
Veteran consultant with 30+ years in church conservation. Works with Churches Conservation Trust and across Leeds, Blackburn, and Manchester dioceses. AABC member instrumental in preserving structural and decorative elements of historic places of worship.
Questions
What architectural services does Overton Architects specialize in?
We specialize in ecclesiastical design, historic building conservation, residential extensions, community developments, and new-build projects across Yorkshire and the North West.
Do you handle listed building projects?
Yes, our team includes AABC-accredited professionals with extensive experience in Grade I and II listed building restoration and adaptation.
How do you approach conservation projects?
We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, always preserving architectural integrity while addressing structural and functional requirements.
Can you assist with church reordering?
Yes, we have decades of expertise in liturgical space planning, accessibility improvements, and heritage-sensitive church reordering.
What areas do you serve?
We primarily operate across West Yorkshire, North West England, and West Lancashire, with projects spanning from Ilkley to Liverpool.
Do you work on residential projects?
Yes, we deliver bespoke residential extensions and new builds, including accessible and conservation-compliant housing solutions.
