Business Details
17 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architects in Newcastle Upon Tyne
Established in 2009, Gradon Architecture is an award-winning practice registered with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and accredited to ISO9001 and ISO14001 standards. Our team of architects and architectural technologists operates across the UK and internationally, delivering coordinated architectural, principal designer, and project management services using BIM and smart technology. We specialise in Commercial, Residential, Education, Ecclesiastical, and Specialist Care sectors, among others.Our approach prioritises client relationships, combining over two decades of collective experience with a commitment to innovation and sustainability. We actively mentor apprentices and interns, investing in future generations of architects while maintaining a hybrid working model to enhance wellbeing and reduce environmental impact. Our accolades include multiple regional and national awards, reflecting our dedication to excellence in design and community engagement.
Services
Architectural Design
Project Management
Principal Designer
BIM Consultancy
Sustainable Design
Heritage Restoration
Masterplanning
Interior Architecture
Ecclesiastical Projects
Specialist Care Facilities
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- We are RIBA-registered architects with ISO9001 and ISO14001 accreditations.
- Our team utilises BIM technology for coordinated, efficient project delivery.
- We specialise in diverse sectors including Commercial, Residential, and Education.
- Our hybrid working model reduces carbon footprint while enhancing team wellbeing.
- We mentor apprentices and invest in future architectural talent.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- ISO9001
- ISO14001
Services
Architectural Design
We deliver tailored architectural solutions across Commercial, Residential, and Education sectors. Our RIBA-accredited team combines creativity with technical expertise to create functional, sustainable spaces. Clients benefit from our ISO-certified quality processes and BIM-driven precision.
Principal Designer
As Principal Designers, we ensure compliance with health and safety regulations throughout the project lifecycle. Our role integrates design coordination and risk management, leveraging BIM technology to streamline collaboration across multidisciplinary teams for efficient project delivery.
Project Management
Our project management services cover planning, budgeting, and execution across diverse sectors. We utilise hybrid working methodologies to maintain flexibility while ensuring adherence to timelines and quality standards, supported by ISO9001-certified processes.
BIM Consultancy
We implement Building Information Modelling (BIM) to enhance project coordination and data-driven decision-making. Our consultancy optimises digital workflows, reducing errors and improving efficiency across architectural, engineering, and construction phases.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design approach aligns with ISO14001 environmental standards and the RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge. We integrate energy-efficient solutions and low-carbon materials to create buildings that balance ecological responsibility with functional excellence.
People
Graham McDarby
Managing Director
Graham leads Gradon Architecture's design direction with over 25 years of experience. A RIBA-registered architect, he founded the practice in 2009 after director roles at FaulknerBrowns and Ryder. His expertise spans Commercial and Residential sectors.
Donna McDarby
Finance Director
Donna oversees financial operations and HR, ensuring cost-effective resources and competitive client fees. With a background in banking, she brings financial rigour to support the practice's growth since its founding in 2009.
Tanja Smith
Technical Director
Tanja, an OBE recipient for services to education, mentors apprentices and leads technical delivery. Her focus on training future architects aligns with the practice's commitment to nurturing talent and maintaining high technical standards.
Questions
What sectors does GRADONARCHITECTURE specialise in?
We work across Commercial, Residential, Education, Ecclesiastical, Specialist Care, and Public & Arts sectors, among others.
Are your architects RIBA-registered?
Yes, we are a RIBA-registered practice with ISO9001 and ISO14001 accreditations for quality and environmental standards.
Do you offer BIM services?
Yes, we utilise BIM technology across all projects for coordinated design and efficient project delivery.
How does your hybrid working model benefit clients?
Our flexible approach reduces overheads, enhances team wellbeing, and allows 200% capacity delivery while maintaining studio presence 50% of the time.
What awards has GRADONARCHITECTURE won?
We have received multiple awards including LABC Building Excellence, RIBA North East, and Constructing Excellence in the North East.
Do you support apprenticeships?
Yes, we actively mentor apprentices and T-Level students, with our Technical Director Tanja Smith awarded an OBE for services to education.
