Business Details
10 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Services in Hitchin & Cheltenham
CROE Architects is an energetic team of architects and designers based in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, and Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. We specialise in delivering bespoke residential and commercial projects across the Home Counties, Cheltenham, Cotswolds, and beyond. Our approach combines creative design with technical expertise, focusing on individual client needs through every stage of development. We utilise modern technology and construction methods to transform constraints into design opportunities. By maintaining a small team, we ensure personalised service and direct access to experienced professionals. Our work spans new builds, conversions, extensions, and heritage projects, reflecting our adaptability and commitment to quality.We operate through RIBA stages, offering full-service architecture from initial brief to on-site management. Our founders, Joe Reader and Craig Humber, bring over 40 years of combined experience across diverse sectors. We prioritise clear communication, budget adherence, and innovative solutions tailored to each project's unique requirements. Our practice balances creativity with practicality, ensuring designs are both visionary and buildable. This philosophy has established us as a trusted partner for clients seeking exceptional architectural outcomes.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Projects
Heritage & Listed Buildings
Planning Applications
Technical Design
Construction Management
3D Visualisations
Feasibility Studies
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- We offer over 40 years combined experience in residential and commercial architecture
- Our small team ensures direct access to senior architects for every project
- We utilise Revit and AutoCAD for precise 3D visualisations and technical detailing
- Our RIBA stage process guarantees structured project delivery from concept to completion
- We specialise in heritage projects requiring planning and conservation approvals
Associations and certifications
- RIBA Chartered
What people say
Exceptional design solutions
Knowledge of heritage requirements
Transparent budget management
Responsive communication
Attention to detail
Services
Residential Architecture
We create tailored residential solutions from new builds to extensions and conversions. Our process begins with understanding client lifestyles and site constraints to develop functional, light-filled spaces. We manage projects through all RIBA stages, ensuring compliance with planning and building regulations while maintaining design integrity.
Commercial Architecture
Our commercial projects span retail, office, and industrial developments. We focus on creating efficient layouts that enhance user experience while meeting planning requirements. Our team applies residential design principles to commercial contexts, delivering spaces that balance aesthetics with operational practicality.
Heritage & Listed Buildings
Specialising in heritage projects, we navigate complex planning constraints for listed properties. Our expertise includes period-appropriate materials and techniques while integrating modern requirements. We collaborate with local authorities and heritage teams to secure necessary approvals for sensitive renovations.
People
Joe Reader
Co-Founder
BA (hons), DipArch with 20+ years' experience in residential and commercial architecture. Specialises in project management and planning law compliance. Leads technical delivery from design to construction stages.
Craig Humber
Co-Founder
BA (hons), DipArch bringing construction industry insights from family businesses. Focuses on practical design solutions and buildability. Manages client relationships and conceptual design phases across project types.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full-service architecture for residential and commercial projects, including design, planning applications, technical drawings, and construction management through all RIBA stages.
Do you work on listed buildings?
Yes, we specialise in heritage projects requiring listed building consent. Our team has extensive experience securing approvals from local planning authorities and heritage teams.
How are your fees structured?
Fees are typically calculated as a percentage of construction costs, adjusted for project complexity. We offer fixed fees for specific stages with transparent breakdowns of all charges.
What areas do you cover?
Based in Hitchin and Cheltenham, we work across the Home Counties, London, Cotswolds, and Gloucestershire. We also undertake projects further afield when required.
How do you use technology in design?
We utilise Revit for 3D modelling and AutoCAD for heritage projects. This allows accurate visualisations and technical documentation, improving client understanding and construction precision.
