Location?

In SE1 between Waterloo and Lambeth North, just behind the London Eye and in front of the Imperial War Museum.

When did the practice start?

19.09.95

How many staff? 

We are currently 16

Company ethos? 

We make spaces that people will love.      

Current projects?  

We are working on Turkish Airlines Lounges in New Istanbul Airport, Virgin Voyages, Wahaca, some workplaces in Paris and a Central London Hotel.

Favourite part of the studio?  

Everyone likes to congregate around the kitchen bench and the materials library is always amazing to explore - we also have the roof where in the summer we have lunch together.

Favourite nearby coffee shop?  

For its beauty and good coffee - we must mention Coleman’s. Previously it was a butcher’s, then a bookshop. 

Do you eat lunch together?  

Yes, from the Lower Marsh Market, Greensmiths and people often make their own food to bring in. 

Pets allowed?  

Unofficially, yes (we’ve had a dog for the day before).

Part of what keeps driving us forwards is a feeling that—whilst there has been so much great architecture and design in the past—nobody still has the perfect answer to the challenges we face today. 

Most played song/artist/musician in the studio?  

There’s quite a diverse taste in the office, so we definitely mix it up a bit… depends on the mood.  What we might listen to on Monday is likely to be quite different to Friday afternoon. 

Architect/Architectural style you look up to? 

Part of what keeps driving us forwards is a feeling that—whilst there has been so much great architecture and design in the past—nobody still has the perfect answer to the challenges we face today. So while there are the pantheon of greats from the past, from Vanbrugh to Mies van der Rohe, to John Lautner, and todays great innovators, like Herzog de Meuron or OMA, that perfect combination of functionality, meaning and human comfort remains quite elusive.

Favourite building in London?

If we really have to choose… The National Theatre – you can’t beat the statement of strength and optimism, the beauty of its form and what it contains.

Favourite building you have designed?

Like children – you shouldn’t have a favourite!  We love them all for the joy and challenges they brought and for who they have become. The Kielder Belvedere still retains a fond place in our hearts though, both as our first building and also because it is still loved and cared for by the client team, long after its intended design life.