Business Details
Award-Winning Architectural Design in Oxford
Gbs Architects is an award-winning architectural practice based in Oxford, dedicated to creating thoughtfully designed spaces that prioritise human needs. With expertise across education, healthcare, residential, and conservation sectors, we combine strategic planning with technical precision to deliver tailored solutions. Our team includes two Partner Architects and a Partner Surveyor, each bringing specialised knowledge to ensure projects benefit from collaborative experience. We guarantee partner-led oversight from inception to completion, supported by a multidisciplinary team with decades of combined industry experience.Our work has earned recognition through architectural awards, and our commitment to quality is reflected in projects ranging from historic restorations to modern healthcare facilities. As stewards of St Thomas House, a Grade II listed building, we demonstrate our dedication to preserving architectural heritage while embracing innovation. Our client-focused approach ensures every project balances aesthetics, functionality, and budgetary considerations.
Services
Architectural Design
Healthcare Projects
Education Sector
Conservation Work
Interior Design
Sustainability Consultancy
Project Management
Access Consultancy
Cost Management
Highlights and features
- Partner architects oversee every project from concept to completion
- Award-winning designs across education, healthcare, and conservation sectors
- Specialist team with expertise in historic building restoration
- Integrated approach combining architecture, interior design, and sustainability
- Proven track record in complex projects like NHS healthcare facilities
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service combines creative vision with technical precision to create functional spaces tailored to client needs. We specialise in new builds and renovations across education, healthcare, and residential sectors. Our partner-led approach ensures quality control throughout every project phase, from initial concept to final certification.
Healthcare Projects
We design healthcare environments that prioritise patient comfort and operational efficiency. Recent projects include NHS hospital extensions and specialist palliative care facilities. Our team understands the unique requirements of healthcare spaces, including accessibility standards and infection control protocols, delivering compliant, future-ready solutions.
Conservation Work
Specialising in historic buildings, we balance preservation with modern functionality. Our conservation expertise includes Grade I and II* listed structures, employing traditional techniques while integrating contemporary requirements. Projects involve meticulous research and collaboration with heritage bodies to maintain architectural integrity.
Education Sector
We create inspiring learning environments for schools and universities. Our education projects range from science blocks to boarding facilities, focusing on flexible spaces that support modern pedagogy. We understand the unique needs of educational institutions, delivering designs that enhance learning experiences while meeting strict regulatory standards.
Sustainability Consultancy
Our sustainability service develops tailored environmental strategies for each project. We assess energy performance, material selection, and long-term operational costs to create eco-friendly buildings. This includes decarbonisation plans for existing structures and integrating renewable technologies in new developments, ensuring both environmental and financial viability.
People
Nigel Spawton
Partner Architect
With over 35 years' experience, Nigel leads project teams using his expertise in strategic design and construction management. He established the practice's education sector focus and oversees major frameworks.
David Welbourne
Partner Architect
A RIBA-registered architect with 20+ years' experience, David specialises in healthcare projects. He combines creative design with technical knowledge to deliver functional medical facilities that meet complex client requirements.
Mark Norton
Partner Surveyor
As a Chartered Construction Manager, Mark provides project management expertise across sectors. His skills include contract administration, procurement strategies, and accessibility consultancy, ensuring projects meet regulatory standards efficiently.
Fiona Godlement
Director
Fiona leads architectural and interior design projects across education, community, and residential sectors. With expertise in both large and small-scale developments, she ensures design excellence through all project stages.
Lisa De Leon
Project Architect
Lisa manages projects from inception to completion, specialising in sustainable design. Her technical expertise and experience with complex builds ensure high-quality delivery across commercial and residential sectors.
Questions
What architectural sectors does Gray Baynes + Shew specialise in?
We specialise in education, healthcare, residential, conservation, and commercial architecture, with award-winning experience in NHS projects and historic building restoration.
How does the practice approach sustainability in design?
We integrate environmental considerations from project inception, analysing site conditions, energy performance, and renewable technologies to create financially and ecologically sustainable solutions.
Can the firm handle complex heritage projects?
Yes, our team has extensive experience with listed buildings, including Grade I and II* projects like Corpus Christi College Chapel and St John's College's Judges' House.
What project management services are offered?
We provide full RIBA stage services, contract administration, cost consultancy, and principal designer roles, ensuring seamless delivery from concept to completion.
How are clients supported during the design process?
We offer access to multidisciplinary consultants in acoustics, drainage, and sustainability, combined with in-house expertise to deliver tailored, cost-effective solutions.
