Having been involved a range of high-profile and award-winning projects, Jens Bergmark of Bergmark Architects is every discerning client’s dream architect.

Since its establishment in 2008, he’s led his multi-award-winning firm in performing in a multitude of projects, from modest residential refurbishments to attention-grabbing corporate headquarters. 

We love that he’s been working closely with Julien Poulizac of the French interior design practice CAYBO. This strategic and convenient collaboration will surely benefit clients who are looking for a single firm to handle all their architectural and interior design needs.

Also, this longstanding relationship between Poulizac and Bergmark ensures seamless and streamlined service, making clients’ visions a reality in a well-executed manner. 

Bergmark’s personal style leans more toward contemporary and historical design. While this may not appeal to all clients, many have lauded him for his attention to detail when it comes to his clients’ specific needs.

We deeply appreciate the lengths Bergmark goes to accommodate clients’ budget constraints. Past clients we’ve gotten in touch with said that Bergmark goes above and beyond to ensure that no financial investment is wasted. 

For more discerning clients, we definitely recommend browsing through their portfolio, which is up on their website and social media pages. We like that they’re quite diligent in posting their projects’ progress and accomplishments. 

We find that this helps potential clients determine if their preferences align with the firm’s design affinities. This also tells us how much the Bergmark team prides themselves in their work. 

If this is your first time to engage an architectural firm, we think Capital A Architecture is worth checking out because they have everything readily laid out for potential clients. 

First off, they have a comprehensive step-by-step process, from initial consultation to post-construction. We like their transparency on this as this allows clients, especially first-timers, to know what to expect throughout the duration of the project.

Speaking of transparency, another thing we like about this firm is that the architects’ fees are readily available on their website, which is generally a rarity in this industry.

These include a comprehensive computation of fees for house extensions and internal alterations, among others.

However, we were a bit turned off by the fact that they only accept projects with a budget of at least £150,000. While we do understand that they are quite busy with the high volume of work, we think this makes them less accessible to certain clients.

On a brighter note, they also have an hourly rate for all kinds of projects, which is perfect for clients looking for short-term engagement or are working with a smaller budget. 

They also have a full range of services for clients looking to self-build their homes. To us, these options show that Capital A Architecture genuinely wants to extend their services as far as they are welcome. 

Despite being one of the youngest firms on this list, Block Nine Architects has proven itself a worthy contender as it has grown immensely since opening in 2009. 

To date, the firm houses a number of architects, technicians, and designers who work closely with their clients to create seamless and tailored design solutions, from cosy residential lots to dynamic educational spaces.

Since they don’t have a signature design, they’re able to work on a variety of projects for different sectors. We love the openness and flexibility this brings to the table. 

Because of this approach, they’ve secured a hefty amount of projects from all over the UK, which you can find in their online portfolio. For extra-discerning clients, we do suggest checking out their past work as these will give you an idea of the kind of work they’ve done.

We also like that they have their key work stages clearly laid out for clients. This gives clients a comprehensive overview of what it’s like working and collaborating with them.

Apart from that, we also love that they have their fee computations on hand. Besides transparency, this shows that they take the time to evaluate each project individually to determine a fair charge.

What makes Architectural Building Design Consultants stand out to us is that it’s owned and operated by professional architect technologists and technicians with over 25 years of combined industry experience.

With diverse disciplines represented in the team, the firm almost operates like a multi-hyphenate – able assist a wide range of clientele with its variety of specialisations. 

It’s also worth highlighting that they have a background in rural architecture, as well as experience in the conversion of historic properties. We find that this will definitely come in handy for any client looking for seasoned architects that have a knack for restoration work.

Even so, we were a tad concerned that they’re still a relatively young company, having only been established in 2016. So, they may not be top-of-mind for those looking for a industry veterans.

For clients ready to commence their projects, we like that they have a comprehensive project flow to follow. We find that this gives clients a clear overview of what things will look like, starting from the initial consultation until the project’s completion. 

Unfortunately, they don’t have their fee computations up on their website. However, you can request a no-obligation quote by phoning in and speaking with one of their architects. 

On a brighter note, there are fixed rates available for each stage of the developmental process, depending on the overall cost of your project. 

One of Jefcoate Anderson Architects’ strong points is that their directors have accumulated a wealth of experience over the last 20 years, having dipped into domestic and international projects in various industries. 

Hence, they’re widely popular for being able to cover a wide range of projects, of various sizes and budget restrictions. We find this to be a great asset for clients looking for architects that can produce stellar results even with certain limitations in place.

Another notable feature is that their architects are known to have a very client-centred approach, often building on clients’ ideas before sharing their own. We like that this gives clients creative freedom to make sense of their ideas, with the help of the architects’ insights.

We were also happy to see that they also offer bespoke designs. Their past work even includes making customised sheds for farmers. 

If you’re curious to see their work, they have a portfolio up on their website, with brief descriptions of each project. With this, we think clients can see if their vision fits the kind of work that Jefcoate Anderson Architects can do.

Agora Architecture and Design, based in Edinburgh, offers a comprehensive range of architectural services across Scotland and the UK. Their portfolio includes unique homes, sensitive alterations to listed properties, transformational renovations, educational projects, and commercial and retail environments. As an RIBA and RIAS Chartered Practice, all of Agora’s architects are ARB registered and members of RIAS and RIBA, underscoring their commitment to professional excellence. Sustainability is a core value of their practice, demonstrated by their membership in the Scottish Ecological Design Association (SEDA).

Their work begins and ends with the client, ensuring that every project is tailored to meet individual needs and preferences. Whether creating open-plan living spaces, cozy retreats, or innovative extensions, Agora excels in translating client desires into practical and aesthetically pleasing designs. Their extensive portfolio, featuring diverse projects like the stone and charred wood extension in The Grange and the gable extension in Duddingston, showcases their versatility and attention to detail.

As a member of SEDA, they prioritize environmentally friendly practices and materials in their projects.Furthermore, their experience with listed buildings and sensitive renovations demonstrates their ability to balance modern needs with historical preservation, ensuring that alterations enhance rather than detract from the original structure.

However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider when working with Agora Architecture and Design. The bespoke nature of their services, combined with their commitment to sustainability and high-quality design, can result in higher costs compared to other architectural firms.

In conclusion, Agora Architecture and Design stands out for its dedication to client satisfaction, sustainability, and high-quality design. Their extensive experience across a range of project types, from residential to educational and commercial, highlights their versatility and capability.