Business Details
Award-Winning Architectural Services in Exeter
HiltonBarnfield is an award-winning local architecture practice delivering a highly personal, creative, and professional service. Our team of architects in Devon approaches every project with dedication and enthusiasm, committed to producing innovative solutions to every design challenge to maximise added value for our clients. Our philosophy is driven by a desire to enhance and benefit from our local environment, making the most of what is on our doorstep. We design buildings that have a strong relationship to, and a low impact on, their surrounding context aesthetically, environmentally, and spatially. Our portfolio includes new builds, extensions, and refurbishments, ranging from tight infill sites to grand designs with breathtaking views.As Passivhaus designers, we ensure that your new building has a low environmental impact. We take pride in transforming tired and difficult buildings, from full conversions and eco retrofits to improving the layout of your home. Our masterplanning and strategic work ranges from small-scale mixed-use and residential developments to city and district-wide strategic visions and transition plans. Clients praise our ability to follow briefs while adding innovative ideas, resulting in exceptional properties that exceed expectations. We are dedicated to providing a client-centric approach, offering free initial consultations to discuss your project and bring your vision to life.
Services
Architecture
Extensions
New Houses
Retrofit
Masterplanning
Highlights and features
- We have extensive experience in architectural design across Devon
- Our team specialises in Passivhaus low-impact building standards
- We combine creativity with technical expertise for optimal solutions
- We maintain a strong commitment to environmental sustainability
- Our client-focused approach ensures tailored, collaborative projects
What people say
Exceptional house design
Great for entertaining spaces
Personalised service approach
Innovative eco solutions
Seamless historic building work
Services
Architecture
Our architectural services create bespoke buildings that harmonise with their environment. We specialise in new builds across Devon, from compact infill projects to grand designs with panoramic views. Our Passivhaus-certified team ensures energy efficiency while maintaining aesthetic integrity. Clients benefit from our technical expertise and creative problem-solving approach.
Extensions
We design functional, visually cohesive extensions for historic and modern properties. Our portfolio includes single and double storey additions that maximise natural light and improve spatial flow. Each project receives tailored solutions to enhance living spaces while respecting original architectural character.
Retrofit
Our retrofit services transform outdated buildings through energy-efficient upgrades and layout optimisations. We specialise in eco retrofits that improve thermal performance while preserving structural integrity. This includes historic building conservation and modernisation of inefficient properties to meet contemporary living standards.
Masterplanning
We develop strategic masterplans for residential and mixed-use developments. Our approach balances environmental considerations with practical functionality, creating sustainable communities. Services range from small-scale housing schemes to district-wide vision plans that guide future growth and infrastructure development.
New Houses
Our new house designs prioritise sustainability without compromising aesthetics. We create energy-efficient homes tailored to site-specific conditions, whether in urban settings or rural landscapes. Each project incorporates innovative materials and construction techniques to deliver modern, comfortable living spaces that integrate with their surroundings.
People
James Barnfield
Director
James leads our architectural team with over 20 years' experience in sustainable design. He specialises in creating context-sensitive buildings that balance innovation with environmental responsibility, ensuring each project maximises client value through creative problem-solving.
Judit Szajcz
Senior Architectural Assistant
Judit brings technical expertise to our projects, focusing on energy-efficient solutions and material innovation. With a background in both residential and commercial architecture, she ensures precise execution of design concepts while maintaining strong client communication throughout the project lifecycle.
Tess Harland
Architectural Assistant
Tess supports our design team with emerging expertise in sustainable building practices. Her fresh perspective and attention to detail contribute to both new builds and retrofit projects, helping deliver creative solutions that align with our environmental commitments.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer in Exeter?
We provide full architectural services including new builds, extensions, eco retrofits, and masterplanning across Devon and Exeter.
Do you specialise in sustainable building design?
Yes, we are Passivhaus-certified designers focusing on energy-efficient buildings that minimise environmental impact while maintaining aesthetic quality.
Can you work with listed buildings?
Our team has extensive experience in extending and renovating historic and listed buildings while preserving architectural integrity.
What is your design process?
We begin with a free consultation to understand your needs, followed by concept design, planning applications, and detailed construction drawings with ongoing project support.
How do you ensure environmental responsibility?
We incorporate sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and site-sensitive designs to create buildings with minimal ecological footprint.
