Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Tadcaster
Established in 1957 by Anthony Pearce and Derek Bottomley, we are a RIBA Chartered Practice rooted in Tadcaster, North Yorkshire. Our expertise spans conservation, heritage, and sustainable architecture, with a focus on listed buildings, ecclesiastical projects, and innovative new builds. Our approach combines six decades of experience with modern design principles, ensuring every project balances functionality, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility. We serve public and private clients, delivering tailored solutions from concept to completion.Our team of accredited conservation architects and project specialists has earned recognition for excellence, including RICS and RIBA awards. We prioritise client collaboration, transparent communication, and sustainable practices, maintaining a legacy of craftsmanship while embracing technological advancements. With a deep understanding of the built environment, we specialise in adaptive reuse, renewable technologies, and community-focused design.
Services
Design
Conservation
Project Management
Contract Administration
Construction Design Management
Public Consultation
Feasibility Studies
Details
- Year established: 1957
Highlights and features
- We have over 60 years of experience in architectural design and conservation.
- Our team includes RIBA Chartered and AABC-accredited conservation architects.
- We prioritise sustainable development and renewable technologies in every project.
- Our client-focused approach ensures tailored solutions from concept to completion.
- Award-winning expertise in heritage, ecclesiastical, and listed building projects.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA Chartered Practice
- AABC (Architect Accredited in Building Conservation)
What people say
Fantastic
Professional & caring
Excellent firm
Communicative
Innovative approach
Services
Heritage Conservation
Specialising in listed buildings, scheduled monuments, and historic parks, we preserve architectural heritage while integrating modern functionality. Our AABC-accredited team ensures compliance with Historic England standards, using traditional materials and techniques. Projects include ecclesiastical renovations and Grade I listed restorations, balancing preservation with sustainable adaptation for future use.
Sustainable Design
We incorporate renewable technologies like air-source heat pumps and solar panels into new builds and renovations. Our approach prioritises energy efficiency, eco-friendly materials, and minimal environmental impact. From residential homes to commercial developments, we create spaces that meet modern needs while adhering to strict sustainability principles throughout the design and construction process.
Project Management
From initial briefs to final delivery, we manage timelines, budgets, and stakeholder coordination. Our expertise ensures compliance with planning regulations and statutory requirements, with seamless integration of structural engineers, contractors, and local authorities. Clients benefit from transparent reporting and risk mitigation strategies tailored to project complexity.
Ecclesiastical Architecture
With specialist experience in religious buildings, we handle quinquennial inspections, repairs, and extensions for churches and cathedrals. Our work includes award-winning spire reconstructions and adaptive reuse of historic ecclesiastical spaces. Partner-led projects ensure sensitivity to spiritual significance while addressing modern usability and safety standards.
Public Consultation
We facilitate stakeholder collaboration for urban and rural developments, ensuring community needs shape project outcomes. Our methods include workshops, surveys, and liaison with local groups to align designs with public interests. This approach enhances planning approval prospects and fosters community ownership of new or renovated spaces.
People
Sally Beeden
Partner / Practice Secretary
Overseeing business operations and financial management, Sally brings cross-sector expertise in strategy and project governance. Her innovative approach enhances practice efficiency, while her equestrian pursuits include competing an ex-racehorse.
Alexa Stephens
Partner / Conservation Architect
An award-winning AABC architect, Alexa specialises in ecclesiastical projects and heritage conservation. She serves as a Diocesan Advising Architect and holds leadership roles in professional bodies, combining technical excellence with community engagement.
Caroline Brayson
Architect
With over a decade in conservation architecture, Caroline focuses on traditional building repair and adaptive reuse. Her international experience spans Yorkshire to Seville, complemented by national judo coaching and competition achievements.
Scott Doherty
Project Architect
Specialising in heritage-led projects, Scott has worked on listed buildings across the UK. His expertise includes community and residential schemes, with personal interests in global travel and film studies.
Kasturi Khanolkar
Architectural Assistant
A York University graduate in Historic Building Conservation, Kasturi contributes to ecclesiastical projects. Her passion for enhancing user experiences through design is matched by her love for Indian classical dance and Yorkshire Dales walks.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in heritage conservation, ecclesiastical projects, sustainable design, and new builds, with expertise in listed buildings and community-focused developments.
How do you approach conservation projects?
We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, adhering to Historic England guidelines. Our AABC-accredited team ensures structural integrity while enhancing usability for contemporary needs.
Can you manage large-scale commercial developments?
Yes, our project management covers commercial schemes from initial briefs to completion, coordinating multidisciplinary teams and ensuring regulatory compliance throughout the process.
Do you work outside Yorkshire?
While based in Tadcaster, we undertake projects nationwide, including recent work in London, the Lake District, and the South East.
How do you incorporate sustainability?
We integrate renewable technologies, eco-materials, and energy-efficient designs from project inception, ensuring environmental responsibility without compromising aesthetic or functional quality.
What awards have you won?
Our accolades include RICS Yorkshire Region Project of the Year, RIBA Conservation Awards, and the King of Prussia Gold Medal for ecclesiastical architecture excellence.
