For years, JGJS Architecture has been the home for all my projects—partnering with developers to bring larger-scale visions to life. That work continues to thrive, and I’m incredibly proud of the new-build developments we’ve delivered. JGJS Architecture has also had the privilege of working with domestic clients providing individualised extensions, remodelling and new homes and its now time for those private clients to have their own space in my business. The impact of our jo

As the year draws to a close, I’m taking a moment to reflect on a pivotal 2025 for my architectural practice. Family time is paramount for a small business owner Business Resilience and Bespoke Service I am immensely proud to close the second year of trading with strong and growing numbers. It’s worth noting that the statistic is stark—around 35% of UK small businesses unfortunately fail in their second year—so achieving this continued momentum and forecasting growth into Yea

The post-pandemic narrative of a ‘City Exodus’ is stabilising. Internal migration departures from London are now at their lowest in a decade. For architects and planners, this slowdown is not a return to normal but an opportunity to address the structural failures in spatial planning and housing delivery. The reduced outflow does not signal revived enthusiasm for urban living; rather, it reflects the inability of receiving towns and rural areas to provide sufficient, affordab

Out of 30 Architects, I Was the Only One Using AI! Earlier this year, I attended a CPD event for my industry, and a conversation from the floor left me genuinely surprised. Out of about thirty fellow architects in the room, I was the only one actively utilising specific AI solutions like  Rendair  in my daily workflow. Is this AI? The consensus was still "it's too new" or "it's too generic." My view? We risk falling behind if we don't embrace the tools that free us from the m

Beyond Gender: Addressing the Deeper Diversity Challenge in Architecture. The recent article in the  Architects’ Journal , 'It’s high time the RIBA and ARB got tough on gender inequality', rightly highlights ongoing issues in our profession. It’s a necessary conversation, but drawing on my 21 years of experience since becoming Chartered, I believe we need to widen the lens. About 30% of the architects I've worked with have been female. I have consistently worked alongside wel

Celebrating World Architecture Day this week, although every day is an architectural day for me! We relate World Architecture to major...

The appointment of  Chris McDonald  as the new Construction Minister is a significant move for our industry. Unlike his many...

A great building project isn't just about a good plan; it's about a great partnership. The relationship you have with your architect can...

Supporting charities like No5 is an important part of social responsibility for all businesses. As my two boys and I prepare to climb...

The HMO market is a clear area of opportunity for investors. With sustained tenant demand and average yields significantly higher than...

Just landed back in the UK after 10 incredible days cruising the Mediterranean! What an amazing experience! From an architect's...

Probably over 50% of clients' initial reaction to a flat roof will be negative, but is that now an unfounded reaction? As an architect,...

I'm pleased to announce that this single-storey rear extension near Reading is now finished! A lootility is a WC and utility room that is...

How Golf and Studying for your GCSEs seem to have many parallels.  On Monday this week, I spent a fabulous day with  Phil Johnson  from ...

A modest extension with a massive impact It's taken time to plan and bring this together, but along with the incredible...

How long are you expecting to wait for planning approval? The answer will often depend on which local authority you live in, or who is...

Is section 73b going to really help or do anything else you can't already do with a minor amendment or the existing section 73?  We are...

A blast from the past: I recently met up with a previous client to find out what life has been like living in the extension we got...

What makes me different, I suppose it’s my attitude to communication, but I expect most consultants would say that! So how do I differ...

What's your opinion on the recent outline planning permission being granted at Maidenhead Golf Club? It has generated much debate over...