Business Details
Sustainable Architecture & Eco-Design Specialists in Berkshire
Inhabitat Design Studios was founded by RIBA Chartered architect Sandra Orlando Payne to deliver innovative, sustainable architecture that harmonises the natural and built environments. Our practice combines over a decade of professional experience with a commitment to ethical standards, transparency, and client-centric design. Specialising in residential, commercial, and educational sectors, we guide projects through all RIBA work stages, from initial feasibility studies to construction management. Our team holds accreditations from the Royal Institute of British Architects, the Architect Registration Board, and The Green Register, ensuring rigorous adherence to sustainability principles.We prioritise holistic design, integrating eco-luxury concepts that balance environmental responsibility with aesthetic excellence. With deep local knowledge of Berkshire and conservation areas, we navigate complex planning processes while maintaining open communication and fixed fee structures. Our approach merges creative flair with technical expertise, delivering bespoke solutions for new builds, renovations, and community-focused developments.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Interior Architecture
Outdoor Design
Eco-Design Consultancy
Property Development
Highlights and features
- RIBA Chartered architects with expertise in sustainable design and conservation areas
- Transparent fixed-fee structures agreed before project commencement
- Local knowledge of Berkshire planning regulations and heritage requirements
- Holistic eco-luxury design approach combining sustainability with premium aesthetics
- End-to-end project management from feasibility studies to construction oversight
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)
- Architect Registration Board (ARB)
- The Green Register
What people say
Beautifully crafted home
Creative vision
Holistic approach
Professional expertise
Sustainable innovation
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable architecture services integrate eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems while maintaining aesthetic excellence. We specialise in new builds, radical remodelling, and conservation projects that meet modern living needs without compromising environmental integrity. With RIBA Chartered architects leading every project, clients receive innovative solutions that harmonise built environments with natural ecosystems.
Interior Architecture
We create bespoke interior spaces that combine functionality with ecological responsibility. Our team designs tailored solutions for residential and commercial properties, focusing on natural materials, smart home integration, and spatial optimisation. From loft conversions to boutique interiors, each project receives meticulous attention to detail while maintaining compliance with statutory regulations and sustainability standards.
Outdoor Design
Our outdoor design services extend sustainable principles to external spaces, creating harmonious transitions between buildings and their surroundings. We specialise in eco-luxury gardens, swimming ponds, and biodiversity-enhancing landscapes that complement architectural designs. By replacing conventional elements with self-sustaining solutions, we deliver functional outdoor areas that improve ecological value and property aesthetics.
Eco-Design Consultancy
We provide expert guidance on implementing eco-measures for both new and existing buildings. Our consultancy covers energy efficiency assessments, material selection, and regulatory compliance for green architecture. With specialists from The Green Register involved in every project, clients receive actionable recommendations to reduce environmental impact while maintaining design integrity and functionality.
Property Development
Our property development services cover the complete project lifecycle from feasibility studies to construction management. We offer tailored solutions for residential and commercial developments, including planning applications, technical drawings, and contractor tendering. With a focus on conservation-sensitive areas, we deliver projects that balance modern requirements with historical context while maintaining strict budget and timeline controls.
People
Sandra Orlando Payne
Director
RIBA Chartered architect with over 10 years' experience in sustainable design. Holds a Masters in Environmental Design and Engineering from UCL. Specialises in high-quality residential and conservation projects while serving on sustainability-focused organisations like Transition Network.
Lucett Lample
Architect
Qualified architect with extensive experience in Berkshire-based projects including listed buildings and bespoke homes. Joined Inhabitat in 2015 after working in multiple local architectural firms. Specialises in project management across all design and construction phases.
Catherine Hannan
Architectural Technologist
Technological architecture specialist with Thames Valley expertise. Provides technical knowledge for construction packages and rapid design solutions. Combines professional excellence with marathon-running dedication to detail and project timelines.
Roberto Lozano
Architectural Assistant
Part 1 qualified architect with sustainability and biomimetic architecture expertise. Skilled 3D visualiser who completed Part 2 at Oxford Brookes University. Returned to the team after gaining additional academic qualifications and practical experience.
Oriana Castaneda
Studio Manager
Chemical engineer turned studio manager with organisational expertise from oil and gas industry experience. Ensures smooth studio operations while maintaining client and contractor communication. Passionate about gardening and creating efficient working environments.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in sustainable architecture, interior design, outdoor eco-landscaping, property development, and eco-design consultancy across residential, commercial, and educational sectors.
Do you work on conservation and listed buildings?
Yes, we have extensive experience with Grade II Listed homes and conservation area projects, combining modern living requirements with heritage preservation requirements.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
We use natural materials, energy-efficient systems, and eco-luxury concepts that integrate biodiversity features like swimming ponds while meeting strict environmental regulations and client needs.
Can you manage full property development projects?
Yes, we provide end-to-end property development services including feasibility studies, planning applications, technical drawings, contractor tendering, and construction management with fixed fee structures.
What areas do you cover?
Based in Eton, we primarily serve Berkshire, Surrey, and Oxfordshire, with particular expertise in local planning regulations and conservation requirements across these counties.
How are your fees structured?
We provide transparent, pre-agreed fees for all services, with flexible engagement options from single-stage consultations to full project management across all RIBA work stages.
