Business Details
30 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design in London
Established in 1996, Toh Shimazaki (t-sa) is a London-based architectural practice renowned for its commitment to creating timeless, tactile architecture through renewal and innovative design. Our methodology deeply engages with the existing built fabric, materials, and cultural narratives of each project, prioritising sustainability and emotional resonance. With a portfolio spanning refurbishments, new builds, and cultural projects, we have earned international recognition, including RIBA National Awards and shortlistings for the Stirling Prize.Our team combines decades of experience with a collaborative approach, working alongside clients, engineers, and craftspeople to deliver spaces that harmonise with their context while addressing contemporary needs. We are dedicated to advancing architectural education through our independent research school, t-sa forum, which explores themes of renewal and materiality. Our work has been featured in leading publications and exhibitions worldwide, cementing our reputation as a trusted authority in architectural design and innovation.
Services
Architectural Design
Sustainable Architecture
Heritage Projects
Cultural Buildings
Residential Refurbishment
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- Established in 1996 with a legacy of award-winning architectural projects
- Specialise in sustainable renewal and context-driven design
- RIBA National Award winners and Stirling Prize shortlisted
- Collaborative approach integrating client narratives and material innovation
- Led by directors with academic leadership and industry recognition
What people say
Award-winning designs
Sustainable approach
Client-centric
Innovative solutions
Strong heritage expertise
Services
Architectural Design
We create bespoke architectural solutions that prioritise context, materiality, and emotional resonance. Our process integrates client narratives with site-specific characteristics to deliver timeless, functional spaces. Projects range from cultural buildings to private residences, each demonstrating our commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Heritage Projects
Specialising in the sensitive renewal of historic buildings, we balance preservation with modern functionality. Our approach retains original character while introducing contemporary elements, ensuring heritage sites remain relevant and usable for future generations through meticulous research and craftsmanship.
Sustainable Architecture
We embed sustainability into every project through material reuse, energy-efficient systems, and circular design principles. Our work minimises environmental impact while enhancing user well-being, demonstrated by award-winning projects like Oru Sutton, a repurposed co-working space showcasing eco-conscious urban regeneration.
Cultural Buildings
We design cultural spaces that foster community engagement and artistic expression. Recent projects include the Royal Academy of Dance headquarters and Leicester Print Workshop, combining functional requirements with architectural innovation to create inspiring environments for creativity and performance.
Residential Refurbishment
Our residential projects transform existing structures into modern, sustainable living spaces. From Victorian dairy conversions to timber-framed extensions, we enhance usability while respecting original architecture, as seen in award-winning schemes like East Dulwich Dairy and Wrottesley Road.
People
Takero Shimazaki
Director
Co-founder of t-sa with over 25 years' experience. Graduated from The Bartlett and taught at the Architectural Association. Leads Diploma Unit 8 at London Metropolitan University, focusing on architectural renewal and materiality.
Jennifer Frewen
Associate Director
Lead designer on multiple award-winning projects including the Royal Academy of Dance. Joined t-sa after participating in the t-sa forum research workshop, bringing precision and aesthetic expertise to cultural and commercial developments.
Ccile David
Associate
Specialises in cultural and heritage projects with experience across Europe. Graduated from cole d'Architecture in France and previously worked on large-scale residential and retail schemes before joining t-sa in 2018.
Paolo Emilio Pisano
Associate
Recipient of RIBA President's Medal Commendation and Zagreb Society of Architects prize. Combines academic research with practical expertise, contributing to t-sa's innovative approach to materiality and spatial design.
Joshua King
Senior Architect
Focuses on material culture and architectural detail. Graduated from the University of Manchester and Cass School of Architecture. Key contributor to projects like Niwa House and Curzon Camden Cinema.
Questions
What architectural styles does Takero Shimazaki Architects specialise in?
We focus on contemporary design rooted in context and materiality, blending modern innovation with respect for existing structures and heritage.
Do they handle both residential and commercial projects?
Yes, our portfolio includes cultural buildings, residential refurbishments, commercial spaces, and mixed-use developments across the UK and internationally.
What sustainability practices do they employ?
We prioritise material reuse, energy efficiency, and circular design principles, demonstrated in projects like Oru Sutton and Prewetts Mill.
How does the practice approach heritage projects?
We combine preservation with sensitive modernisation, retaining historical character while introducing contemporary elements for functional, future-ready spaces.
Can they manage large-scale developments?
Yes, with experience in projects ranging from single-family homes to 79-unit housing schemes like London Road Phase 1.
Do they offer international architectural services?
While based in London, we undertake projects globally, adapting our context-driven approach to diverse cultural and geographical settings.
