Business Details
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Hertford
A D Architects has been creating timeless, durable buildings for over 50 years, specialising in healthcare, education, and community sectors. Our approach combines active listening with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring every project meets client needs while enhancing functionality and aesthetics. We employ BIM Level 2 technology to deliver cost-effective, efficient solutions, supported by ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 accreditations. Our team of experienced directors and consultants provides hands-on leadership across all project stages, from initial design to completion. Sustainability is central to our practice, focusing on adaptable, long-lasting architecture that minimises environmental impact.With offices in Hertford and London, we serve public and private clients nationwide, delivering award-winning projects like the Lister Hospital Emergency Department and Harlow College's Advanced Manufacturing Centre. Our commitment to innovation includes using point-cloud laser scanning for complex refurbishments and virtual reality tools to visualise designs. Client collaboration remains core to our success, ensuring buildings improve how people feel, work, live, and learn.
Services
Healthcare Architecture
Sustainable Design
BIM Services
Education Sector Projects
Community Projects
Highlights and features
- We have over 50 years' experience in architectural design across healthcare and education sectors
- Our practice is ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 quality-accredited
- We implement BIM Level 2 technology for efficient project delivery
- Every project benefits from director-level involvement throughout
- Our sustainable designs prioritise long-term functionality and environmental responsibility
Associations and certifications
- ISO 9001:2015
- ISO 14001:2015
Services
Healthcare Architecture
We specialise in healthcare architecture across NHS and private sectors, creating functional spaces that enhance patient care and staff efficiency. Our projects include emergency departments, operating theatres, and diagnostic facilities. With over 50 years' experience, we deliver solutions that adapt to evolving medical needs while maintaining ISO-accredited quality standards.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design approach prioritises longevity and environmental responsibility. We integrate proven technologies and materials to create adaptable buildings that reduce carbon footprints. Projects like the University of Hertfordshire's Health Research Building demonstrate our commitment to ISO 14001 standards and BREEAM-rated excellence in sustainable construction practices.
BIM Services
We utilise BIM Level 2 technology throughout the design and construction process. Our Revit software expertise enables 3D modelling, clash detection, and virtual reality visualisations. This approach improves project efficiency, reduces waste, and supports accurate off-site component manufacturing while maintaining compliance with ISO 9001 quality assurance standards.
Education Sector Projects
We create inspiring educational environments from nurseries to universities, including SEN facilities and research centres. Our designs incorporate spatial psychology principles to enhance learning experiences. Notable projects include Harlow College's Advanced Manufacturing Centre and Highbury Fields School's science wing, demonstrating our adaptability to diverse educational needs.
Community Projects
Our community architecture includes sports facilities, housing developments, and cultural spaces. We collaborate with local authorities and stakeholders to create inclusive environments that strengthen communities. Recent projects demonstrate our ability to balance functional requirements with aesthetic appeal while maintaining strict budgetary and timeline controls.
People
John Wiggett
Director
John brings extensive healthcare project expertise across all RIBA stages, with experience in PFI and Design & Build procurement. He joined A D Architects in 2014 and became a Director in 2023 after working with IBI Nightingale Associates.
Ashley Hughes
Director
Ashley specialises in healthcare planning and interior design, with expertise in spatial psychology. She joined A D Architects in 2014, became Associate Director in 2019, and was promoted to Director in 2024, focusing on projects for special needs and dementia care.
Jim Haigh
Consultant
Jim offers leadership in healthcare masterplanning and feasibility studies, with over twenty years' director experience. He resigned as Managing Director in 2025 to become a consultant, providing technical advisory services for primary and acute healthcare environments.
Adam Scott
Consultant
Adam specialises in healthcare design, having joined A D Architects in 2001 before graduating from the University of Greenwich. He became an Associate Director in 2012 and a Director in 2015, delivering projects from small refurbishments to complex developments.
Sue Hines
Administration Manager
Sue has managed A D Architects' operations since 1985, serving as the primary client contact. Her administrative support enables the team to focus on delivering high-quality architectural solutions while maintaining efficient project management processes.
Questions
What sectors does AD Architects specialise in?
We specialise in healthcare, education, and community architecture, with extensive experience in NHS and private healthcare projects, schools, universities, and public sector developments.
How does AD Architects use BIM technology?
We implement BIM Level 2 (or Level 3 when required) for efficient project delivery, using Revit software to create coordinated 3D models that improve accuracy and reduce construction risks.
Are AD Architects ISO accredited?
Yes, we hold ISO 9001:2015 for quality management and ISO 14001:2015 for environmental management, demonstrating our commitment to international standards.
What sustainable design approaches do you use?
We focus on creating adaptable, durable buildings that minimise environmental impact through material selection, energy-efficient design, and achieving BREEAM ratings for sustainable construction.
Do you work on historic building refurbishments?
Yes, we use point-cloud laser scanning technology for complex refurbishments, enabling accurate 3D modelling of existing structures while preserving their historical integrity.
How are projects managed from start to finish?
Each project receives hands-on director involvement throughout all RIBA stages, with regular client collaboration to ensure designs meet functional requirements and budget constraints.
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