Business Details
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Exeter
Grainge Architects is a leading architectural practice in the South West, renowned for delivering innovative and sustainable design solutions across diverse sectors. Our team of skilled architects and designers combines technical expertise with a collaborative approach, ensuring each project reflects the unique needs of clients and communities. With decades of collective experience, we specialise in creating buildings that harmonise functionality, aesthetics, and environmental responsibility. As a RIBA-certified practice, we adhere to the highest professional standards, supported by ISO 14001 accreditation and a commitment to carbon neutrality. Our non-hierarchical team culture fosters creativity and continuous learning, enabling us to tackle complex challenges with pragmatic, client-focused solutions.From concept to completion, we prioritise clear communication, technical excellence, and a deep understanding of local contexts. Our portfolio spans education, healthcare, residential, and commercial projects, demonstrating our versatility and dedication to enhancing built environments. By integrating advanced technologies like BIM and Passivhaus principles, we ensure efficient, future-ready designs. Our reputation for reliability and quality is evidenced by long-standing client relationships and industry recognition, including RIBA awards. We remain dedicated to advancing sustainable practices while maintaining a strong connection to the communities we serve.
Services
Architectural Design
Sustainable Architecture
Urban Planning
Building Consultation
Project Management
Passivhaus Design
Heritage Conservation
BIM Implementation
Highlights and features
- RIBA-certified practice with 25+ years of regional expertise
- ISO 14001 accredited for environmental management
- In-house Passivhaus Designer for energy-efficient solutions
- Collaborative, non-hierarchical team approach to design
- Award-winning portfolio across education and healthcare sectors
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- ISO 14001
- Carbon Neutral Britain
What people say
Consistently high standard
Sensitively transformed
Excellent environment
Enhanced services
Beautiful building
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service combines creative vision with technical precision to deliver tailored solutions for residential, commercial, and public sector projects. We prioritise functionality, aesthetic quality, and environmental sustainability while maintaining strict adherence to planning regulations and client budgets. Our team utilises advanced BIM technology to ensure accurate visualisation and efficient project delivery across the South West region.
Sustainable Architecture
We specialise in creating energy-efficient buildings that minimise environmental impact without compromising on design integrity. Our approach incorporates Passivhaus principles, renewable energy integration, and sustainable material selection. Certified by ISO 14001 standards, we deliver carbon-neutral solutions that meet current regulations while anticipating future environmental challenges for both new builds and retrofit projects.
Urban Planning
Our urban planning expertise transforms complex sites into functional, future-ready communities. We develop comprehensive strategies for residential developments, mixed-use schemes, and public spaces, balancing commercial viability with social and environmental considerations. With extensive experience in local authority negotiations, we ensure projects align with regional development frameworks while enhancing community value.
Heritage Conservation
We specialise in preserving architectural heritage through sensitive restoration and adaptive reuse projects. Our team combines traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to maintain historical integrity while improving functionality. Services include listed building consent applications, traditional material analysis, and conservation management plans for Grade I and II listed structures across Devon and Cornwall.
BIM Implementation
Our BIM (Building Information Modelling) services enhance project efficiency through 3D digital representation and data integration. We provide full lifecycle BIM support from concept design to construction, improving coordination between stakeholders and reducing errors. This technology enables accurate cost estimation, clash detection, and sustainable performance analysis, ensuring smoother project delivery for complex developments.
People
Tony Pollintine
Director
Creative director with expertise in masterplanning and commercial architecture. Leads design strategy while mentoring emerging talent. Holds architecture qualifications from Oxford Brookes and specialises in complex sector projects.
James Brookes
Director
Experienced project manager with 25+ years in construction. Focuses on client communication and technical delivery. Oversees practice operations and site management for diverse building types.
Andrew Field
Director
Specialises in environmental design and BIM implementation. Manages production information and technical standards. Leads sustainability initiatives and feasibility studies across multiple sectors.
David McNicol
Associate Director
Creative designer skilled in resolving planning constraints. Develops conceptual designs using hand sketching and digital tools. Focuses on residential and commercial projects with historically sensitive contexts.
Adam Nicholls
Associate Architect
BIM specialist with 15+ years' experience. Manages technical design and regulatory compliance. Focuses on education and mixed-use developments while leading digital workflow improvements.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential, commercial, education, healthcare, and heritage projects. Our expertise includes sustainable design, BIM implementation, and complex planning solutions across the South West.
Are you certified for environmental standards?
Yes, we hold ISO 14001 accreditation and are a Carbon Neutral Britain-certified practice. Our team includes a certified Passivhaus Designer for energy-efficient building solutions.
How do you approach client collaboration?
We use a non-hierarchical team structure with regular client consultations. Our process begins with detailed brief analysis to ensure designs meet specific needs while maintaining transparency throughout the project lifecycle.
Can you handle listed building projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with Grade I and II listed buildings. Our services include conservation management plans, traditional material analysis, and sensitive adaptive reuse strategies.
What regions do you cover?
While based in Exeter, we work across the South West including Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, and Dorset. Our regional expertise extends to local planning requirements and environmental considerations.
How do you ensure project quality?
We implement rigorous quality control through peer reviews, technical audits, and continuous staff development. Our ISO 9001-aligned processes ensure consistent delivery of high-standard architectural solutions.
