HOW WE WORK
evoke architects is a practice dedicated to creating architecture that balances innovation with practicality.
Based on both the South Coast and South West of England, our focus is residential design - from contemporary homes to traditional extensions - always rooted in the character of their setting.
We understand that rural projects demand sensitivity. With extensive experience navigating planning in National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, we bring clarity and strategy to even the most challenging sites.
Sustainability underpins everything we do. As certified Passivhaus Designers, we embrace low-energy, future-proof solutions that enhance comfort and minimise environmental impact.
Above all, we believe in collaboration. Clear communication, strong client relationships, and carefully crafted design storytelling guides each project from concept through to completion.
OUR EXPERTISE
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PLANNING STRATEGY
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INNOVATIVE DESIGN
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SUSTAINABILITY
We bring extensive knowledge and experience in maximising land value and optimising site development. Over the past 15 years, we’ve worked with both private clients and developers, achieving consistent success on projects within some of the country’s most sensitive locations — including National Parks, Green Belts, and National Landscapes (formerly AONB) and working within Conservation Areas and works to Listed Buildings.
The early stages of a project are critical. We explore every option from the outset — often uncovering opportunities that may not have been considered. With strong connections to a wide network of consultants, we ensure the right team is brought together for each project.
Through comprehensive feasibility studies, we provide clients with a clear foundation on which to make informed decisions. Our objective approach helps reveal both the strengths and the challenges of each potential pathway, ensuring the best possible route forward.
Our architectural service is driven by creativity, but always grounded in reality. We develop innovative design solutions that respond to the unique character of each site and client brief, while ensuring they remain practical, buildable, and cost-effective.
We believe in developing concept designs that are firmly grounded in current building regulations and construction standards, ensuring they are practical, compliant, and robust throughout every stage of the project.
By blending vision with pragmatism, we create architecture that is both inspiring and achievable — designs that not only look exceptional on paper but also stand up to the practical constraints of construction, planning, and budget
Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We take a fabric-first approach, focusing on the efficiency of the building envelope before introducing renewable technologies. This ensures our designs perform sustainably from the outset, rather than relying solely on add-on systems.
With extensive experience in low-energy design, we seamlessly integrate solutions such as ground and air source heat pumps, MVHR, photovoltaics, and battery storage into our projects. Each proposal is carefully considered to balance innovation, practicality, and long-term performance.
PROCESS
STAGE 1
Once we receive your enquiry, we will get in touch to discuss your project in more detail and clarify your aims and brief. We often recommend meeting you on site to explore the project further (this visit is free of charge). After this, we will prepare a bespoke fee proposal tailored to your requirements.
STAGE 3
Once a design option has been selected, we will prepare the required drawings for the planning submission and ensure that all consultant reports are reviewed and aligned with the overall design ambition.
STAGE 5
Our level of involvement at this stage can vary depending on the project. While we do not currently act as Contract Administrator, we are available to respond to any site-based queries. We can also advise on Quantity Surveyor's who can provide a quote for Contract Administration should you need it.
STAGE 2
During this stage, we will develop a planning strategy, advise on the appointment of any additional consultants, and progress the design options for both your project and the site.
STAGE 4
Once planning approval has been granted, we can assist with planning conditions, advise on the appointment of technical design stage consultants, and prepare the necessary technical drawings and specifications to meet Building Regulations.
STAGE 6
This stage involves the completion and handover of the project, as well as addressing any snagging issues during the first year of operation. While we do not currently undertake this role—which is typically the responsibility of a Contract Administrator, if one is appointed—we are always eager to see the completed project, learn from the outcomes, and understand the sustainability aspects of its operation
Private Client, Cornwall
Abi worked with us on the extension and refurbishment of a coastal property in Cornwall. The site was challenging with lots of retaining walls and levels to consider. Abi initially visited us in person to get a feel for the property and over the following weeks provided several options from which we eventually chose. She was very efficient and kept us up to date throughout the process. When we came across issues, they were dealt with promptly and efficiently. With the build now in progress, Abi has been very helpful responding to queries that have arisen with various teams on site. Thank you, Abi, for all the hard work and we wouldn't hesitate to recommend you.
Client, Nether Wallop
We worked with Claire to transform our plot from two unattractive1940’s buildings into two stunning contemporary homes. She was an absolute pleasure to work with throughout the entire journey. Claire brought fantastic design ideas to the table while always listening carefully to our own thoughts, wants and needs. Above all, her communication skills were exceptional, making the process smooth and stress-free. We would not hesitate to work with her again should the opportunity arise
Thorp Construction
We brought Claire into our project at a time when things felt uncertain and momentum had been lost. From the outset she injected new enthusiasm, brought clarity, professionalism and a renewed sense of direction. With some new design and layout ideas that Claire bought to the table, the project really moved from something that was ok to a design that everyone was excited about.
Claire's communication was excellent, responses were prompt, and she handled everyone, clients and contractor, with confidence and care.
Most importantly, Claire produced a high quality result that we love. I wouldn’t hesitate to work with her again and I look forward to doing so in the future.
SERVICES
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Feasibility Studies
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Concept Design
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Planning Strategies
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Planning & Listed Building Applications
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Design & Access Statements
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Principal Designer (CDM Regulations)
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Principal Designer (Building Regulations)
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Building Control Applications
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Tender Drawings and Information
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Lead Consultant
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3D renders, montages, walkthroughs