Business Details
Expert Architectural Services in Bicester
Ora Design is a small, independent architectural practice based near Bicester, serving residential clients across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and the home counties. With over 20 years of professional experience, the practice specialises in delivering high-quality architectural services, including self-build projects, loft and barn conversions, home extensions, eco-friendly building designs, and conservation projects for listed and historic buildings. The founder, Ian Shirvell, a Chartered Architectural Technologist, combines technical expertise with a client-focused approach, offering feasibility studies, detailed architectural drawings, and project management support.The practice prioritises innovative design, meticulous detailing, and collaboration with clients to ensure projects meet both functional and aesthetic goals. Testimonials highlight Ian's responsiveness, creativity, and ability to translate client visions into successful builds, including complex conservation and eco-friendly developments.
Services
Self Build
Loft Conversion
Barn Conversion
Home Extensions
Eco-friendly Buildings
Conservation Projects
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in residential and conservation architecture.
- Our detailed architectural drawings ensure compliance with planning and building regulations.
- We specialise in eco-friendly building systems like timber frame and SIPS.
- Client-focused approach with tailored feasibility studies and project management.
- Proven track record in complex listed building and conservation projects.
Associations and certifications
- Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT)
What people say
Inspirational ideas
Responsive service
Excellent results
Highly recommend
Top-class professionalism
Services
Self Build
Ora Design provides tailored self-build services, offering bespoke architectural designs and technical support for residential projects. From modest homes to ambitious developments, we ensure compliance with planning and building regulations. Our detailed drawings and feasibility studies help clients explore options and manage costs effectively.
Barn Conversion
We specialise in converting barns and stable blocks into modern living spaces, balancing heritage preservation with contemporary needs. Our services include feasibility assessments, planning applications, and detailed construction drawings. Clients benefit from our expertise in listed building consents and eco-friendly retrofitting solutions.
Eco-friendly Buildings
Ora Design integrates eco-friendly materials and systems like timber frame, SIPS, and ICF into residential projects. We focus on energy efficiency, thermal performance, and environmental harmony. Our approach ensures compliance with modern sustainability standards while meeting client-specific needs.
Conservation Projects
We work on listed buildings and historic structures, providing detailed conservation plans and statutory approvals. Our expertise includes traditional detailing, material selection, and navigating planning constraints. Projects range from church renovations to Grade 2 listed home extensions, ensuring heritage integrity and modern functionality.
Home Extensions
Our home extension services create additional living space tailored to client requirements. We handle planning applications, building regulations, and construction detailing for kitchens, living areas, and bedrooms. The focus is on seamless integration with existing structures and cost-effective solutions.
People
Ian Shirvell
Chartered Architectural Technologist
Ian Shirvell, founder of Ora Design, is a Chartered Architectural Technologist with over 20 years of experience. He specialises in residential and conservation projects, combining technical expertise with a passion for sustainable design. His background includes work on prestigious projects like Oxford University buildings and listed care homes.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We offer self-build projects, loft and barn conversions, home extensions, eco-friendly buildings, and conservation projects for listed properties.
How do you approach project planning?
We follow a 5-step process based on the RIBA Plan of Work, including consultation, surveys, planning applications, building regulations, and project management.
Do you work outside Oxfordshire?
We primarily serve Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire but also work in surrounding home counties for residential and conservation projects.
What eco-friendly building methods do you use?
We specialise in timber frame, SIPS (Structurally Insulated Panels), and ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms) for energy-efficient construction.
Can you assist with listed building consents?
Yes, we have extensive experience in preparing detailed applications and navigating statutory approvals for historic and listed buildings.
How are your fees structured?
Fees are either hourly or fixed (8-12% of build cost) and broken down into project stages, excluding VAT and expenses.
