Business Details
Award-Winning Sustainable Architecture in Chichester
HNW Architects was founded over three decades ago with a clear mission: to design buildings that leave a positive social legacy. Our practice has evolved into a collaborative team of over 40 professionals operating from studios in Chichester, Brighton & Hove, and London. We specialise in creating architecture that balances beauty, functionality, and sustainability, guided by our original partners' vision and now led by five creative directors. Our approach combines three decades of experience with relentless innovation, ensuring every project addresses environmental responsibility while meeting client ambitions.We maintain a close-knit team culture that fosters professional development and prioritises wellbeing, enabling us to deliver award-winning solutions across diverse sectors. Our commitment to sustainability is demonstrated through certified Passivhaus designers, in-house sustainability experts, and our status as proud signatories of Architects Declare. We consistently exceed industry standards through our fabric-first philosophy and alignment with the RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge, ensuring our work creates lasting value for communities and environments.
Services
Architecture
Masterplanning
Sustainable Design
Passivhaus Design
Conservation
Urban Design
Interior Fit-Out
BIM Modelling
Project Management
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in sustainable architecture
- Our team includes certified Passivhaus designers
- We maintain a close-knit, collaborative working culture
- We exceed RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge standards
- Our work combines heritage conservation with modern innovation
Associations and certifications
- Architects Declare
- RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge
- Passivhaus Institute
What people say
Best in class design
Sensitive to existing site
Highest quality work
Viable solution to tricky site
Future proofed design
Services
Architecture
Our architectural practice combines creative vision with technical expertise to deliver functional, aesthetically pleasing buildings. We work across residential, commercial, and public sectors, prioritising sustainability and social impact. Our team translates client aspirations into innovative solutions that meet both practical requirements and environmental standards.
Passivhaus Design
Certified Passivhaus designers create ultra-low energy buildings through rigorous attention to insulation, airtightness, and ventilation systems. We apply these principles to new constructions and retrofits, ensuring exceptional thermal comfort while minimising environmental impact. Our expertise meets the world's leading standard for energy-efficient construction.
Sustainable Design
Sustainability underpins all our projects through fabric-first approaches and renewable materials. Our in-house experts integrate energy-efficient systems and biodiversity considerations into every design stage. We help clients achieve environmental certifications and exceed regulatory requirements while maintaining architectural integrity.
Conservation
RIBA-accredited conservation architects specialise in preserving historic buildings while adapting them for modern use. We balance heritage protection with sustainability improvements, ensuring sensitive interventions that maintain character and cultural significance across listed buildings and conservation areas.
Masterplanning
We create comprehensive masterplans that shape thriving communities through sustainable land use and infrastructure planning. Our approach considers environmental context, social needs, and economic viability to deliver transformative urban regeneration projects that stand the test of time.
People
Andy
Creative Director
Andy leads architectural innovation at HNW, combining three decades of experience with forward-thinking design approaches. He specialises in complex urban projects that balance commercial viability with social responsibility.
Lee
Creative Director
Lee oversees sustainable design initiatives, ensuring all projects meet rigorous environmental standards. With expertise in Passivhaus certification, he drives technical excellence across residential and commercial developments.
Steve
Creative Director
Steve specialises in heritage conservation projects, applying RIBA-accredited expertise to sensitive building adaptations. He leads major restoration works while integrating modern sustainability requirements into historic structures.
Rosie
Creative Director
Rosie leads masterplanning initiatives, creating visionary urban developments that prioritise community needs. Her work focuses on transforming underutilised spaces into sustainable, functional environments for future generations.
Gary
Creative Director
Gary oversees project delivery, ensuring architectural excellence from concept to completion. He manages multidisciplinary teams to maintain quality standards across diverse projects while fostering collaborative client relationships.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in sustainable architecture, Passivhaus design, conservation, masterplanning, and urban design across residential, commercial, and public sectors.
How do you incorporate sustainability into projects?
We use fabric-first principles, renewable materials, and energy-efficient systems while exceeding RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge standards through dedicated sustainability experts.
Do you work outside the South East region?
While based in Chichester, Brighton & Hove, and London, we undertake projects nationwide with our team's extensive experience in diverse geographical contexts.
Can you handle listed building renovations?
Yes, our RIBA-accredited conservation architects specialise in sensitive heritage projects, balancing historical preservation with modern functionality and sustainability improvements.
What is your design approach?
We combine creative vision with technical expertise, prioritising collaborative client relationships to deliver architecture that meets practical needs while creating lasting social value.
Do you offer Passivhaus certification?
Yes, our certified Passivhaus designers ensure projects meet rigorous energy efficiency standards while maintaining architectural quality and occupant comfort.
