Business Details
17 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design in Brighton
ARCH Angels Architects is a thoughtful, experienced design practice established in 2009, dedicated to creating sustainable, client-focused architectural solutions. Our team combines creative problem-solving with technical expertise, adhering to RIBA-aligned processes to deliver projects from initial consultation to final construction. We prioritise collaboration, listening to clients' lifestyles, challenges, and aspirations to design homes that enhance everyday living. With a commitment to sustainability, we integrate energy-efficient materials and practices, exemplified by our director's own eco-renovation project featuring solar panels and home automation. Our team's industry recognition includes awards such as Sussex Business Awards Small Business of the Year and Build-It Awards Best Self Build Design Architect.We operate a four-day workweek to maintain focus and energy for client projects, supported by strong relationships with consultants and contractors. Our expertise spans new builds, renovations, and interior design, with transparent communication and ethical practices underpinning every project. We demonstrate trustworthiness through client testimonials praising our clear explanations, creative designs, and dedication to turning visions into reality. Our community involvement includes being the first Business Ambassador to Sussex Nightstop, reflecting our commitment to social responsibility.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Sustainable Architecture
Planning Permissions
Building Regulations Compliance
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We have over 15 years of combined experience in residential architecture
- Our RIBA-aligned process ensures professional standards throughout your project
- We specialise in sustainable design with proven energy-efficient solutions
- Our four-day workweek model maintains team focus for client projects
- We partner with Sussex Nightstop, demonstrating social responsibility
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
What people say
Award-winning results
Clear communication
Creative designs
Sustainable expertise
Collaborative approach
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service transforms residential visions into reality through a structured RIBA-aligned process. We begin with detailed consultations to understand your lifestyle, budget, and aspirations before creating tailored design solutions. Our team produces technical drawings and 3D visualisations to ensure clarity throughout the project lifecycle, from feasibility studies to final construction. This service caters to homeowners seeking new builds, extensions, or property renovations with a focus on sustainable materials and energy-efficient solutions.
Interior Design
Our interior design service integrates seamlessly with architectural projects to create cohesive living environments. We develop mood boards, material selections, and detailed plans for fixtures, finishes, and spatial layouts. The service includes coordination with specialist tradespeople for joinery, lighting, and bespoke furniture solutions. Clients benefit from showroom visits and material samples to ensure quality craftsmanship, with particular expertise in maximising natural light and creating functional storage solutions for both modern and heritage properties.
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable architecture service specialises in energy-efficient building solutions that reduce environmental impact without compromising design quality. We incorporate passive design principles, renewable energy systems like solar panels, and low-carbon materials into every project. The team has particular expertise in retrofitting existing buildings for improved thermal performance, as demonstrated by our director's own home renovation that significantly reduced energy consumption. This service includes guidance on achieving sustainability certifications and compliance with environmental regulations.
Planning Permissions
We manage the complete planning permission process for residential developments, including permitted development assessments and Lawful Development Certificates. Our service covers preparation of technical drawings, submission of applications, and negotiation with local authorities to address any conditions or objections. We provide expert guidance on listed building consent requirements and freeholder permissions for leasehold properties. With knowledge of local authority requirements across Sussex and the Isle of Wight, we ensure efficient processing of applications within statutory timeframes.
Building Regulations Compliance
Our building regulations service ensures all projects meet statutory safety, health, and welfare standards through detailed technical documentation. We coordinate with structural engineers and specialist consultants to produce compliance drawings and specifications, managing submissions to either Local Authority Building Control or Approved Inspectors. The service includes ongoing site inspections and quality assurance throughout construction, with expertise in navigating complex requirements for heritage buildings and energy performance standards.
People
Richard Zinzan
Director | Architect
Founder of ARCH Angels Architects with over 15 years' experience in residential design. Specialises in sustainable architecture and low-energy building solutions. Mentors architecture students at the University of Brighton and RIBA South East scheme.
Jack Hughes
Architectural Designer
Creative problem-solver with expertise in translating briefs into detailed design solutions. Brings technical precision and innovative thinking to residential projects, with particular skill in CAD visualisation and spatial planning for complex renovations.
Rachael Pigg
Senior Architect
Experienced architect with dual expertise in architectural and interior design. Specialises in creating functional spaces that reflect clients' lifestyles, with particular strength in long-term design vision and material selection for residential projects.
Natasha Pochin
Architectural Designer
Empathetic designer with focus on human-centred architecture. Expertise in spatial psychology and sustainable materials, delivering solutions that optimise natural light and airflow. Coordinates client communication throughout the architectural process with clear explanations.
Hannah France
Architectural Designer
Collaborative team player with enthusiasm for residential design challenges. Strengths in brainstorming sessions and client engagement, bringing energy to both project delivery and team dynamics. Specialises in modernising 20th-century properties while preserving architectural character.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full architectural services including initial consultations, design development, planning permissions, building regulations, contract administration, and construction phase support for residential projects.
How do you approach sustainable design?
Our sustainable approach integrates energy-efficient materials, passive design principles, and renewable technologies. We focus on thermal performance, natural lighting, and low-carbon solutions tailored to each project's requirements.
Can you help with listed building projects?
Yes, we have experience with listed buildings and conservation areas. We guide clients through heritage requirements while balancing modern living needs with preservation obligations.
What is your design process?
Our RIBA-aligned process includes consultation, feasibility studies, design development, planning, technical drawings, tendering, and construction oversight to ensure quality from concept to completion.
How are project costs managed?
We provide transparent fee quotes at the outset and work with quantity surveyors to establish budget parameters. Our team identifies cost-saving opportunities while maintaining design integrity throughout the project.
Do you offer interior design services?
Yes, we provide coordinated interior design services including spatial planning, material selection, and bespoke joinery design that integrates seamlessly with architectural elements.