Build Architecture Awards 2016

2016 Architecture Awards Build 55 Company: David James Architects & Associates Ltd Website: http://www.davidjamesarchitects.co.uk/ avid James Architects are a mixed practice consisting of 15 staff, including four Chartered Architects and teams specifically focused on design, obtaining planning permission, building reg- ulations and interior design. The firm have an established client base within the South of England, including national and local developers, local housing authorities, and private clients. Their portfolio of work features a variety of projects ranging from one off houses through to large apartment blocks. David explains how the firm’s collaborative approach and focus on design has led it to its current success. “Here at David James Architects we enjoy a collaborative approach, com- municating with each other to ensure everyone is aware of what is going on in the company. As we have kept the teams small we are all able to work closely together and support each other. Our focus on design means that we are able to work around even exceptionally challenging projects, and this means that we can meet our client’s aspirations for their particular project.” This collaborative approach extends beyond staff, as the firm is also dedi- cated to supporting clients by going through every step of the process with them, as David highlights. “Our aim is to always meet the client’s needs and exceed their expectations. We are committed to communicating with clients from the start so that they understand the process and are able to put their creative input into the designs. This client focused approach has led our firm to its current suc- cess, as we are a highly sought after company whose designs regularly sell quickly, and at a higher market rate. It is a badge of honour for estate agents and property developers to put our name on their brochures.” Two of the firm’s recent projects have been high end apartment blocks, highlighting the company’s strong reputation for excellence. David talks us through these developments and explains how the practice overcame many tough challenges in order to meet its client’s needs. “A recent project which we are very proud of is a uniquely designed apart- ment block consisting of 3 luxury apartments. This recently completed project provides a distinctive residential living experience in a stunning waterside location. The project was blighted by flood issues and relationship problems, however we overcame these through our innovative design to create a stunning, exclusive apartment block. “High end projects are our speciality at David James Architects, and a great example of this is our work on 17 to 21 Banks Road, Sandbanks, which is a nearly complete block of ten exclusive apartments which includes an indoor swimming pool and outdoor Jacuzzi area. Again our design was key to ensur- ing that this project was completed to a high standard, and I firmly believe that design can unlock any project’s potential no matter what issues there may be.” Looking to the future, David expresses his excitement about the firm’s latest projects, which will help it to continue to expand its knowledge and portfolio. “We have a number of high value projects currently in production which will provide us with some great opportunities going forward. Despite the concern around the recent Brexit vote we have not seen a reduction in projects, and the architecture market here in the South of England remains buoyant, which we hope will lead us to many more invigorating projects over the coming months and years.” David James Architects have been recognised again at this years Interna- tional Design & Architecture Awards, winning their category for an impres- sive third year in a row. They are very proud that a local Dorset company continues to achieve excellence in design and attains worldwide recognition for design and innovation in architecture. davidjames architects & associates ltd Best Design Led Architectural Practice - Dorset & Recognised Leaders in Residential Architecture - South West David James Architects & Associates are Dorset’s premier design led architectural practice. We interviewed David James to learn more about the company and how its dedication to quality design has helped it to achieve its current success. D AR160042