Business Details
30 Years
experience
Expert Architectural Design & Conservation Services
NJ Architects is a highly motivated team dedicated to producing designs that balance brief, location, budget, and planning constraints, often within historical contexts. We collaborate closely with clients, craftspeople, and authorities to achieve the highest design standards informed by sustainability principles. Our commitment extends beyond aesthetics to environmental consciousness, believing architecture can shape a better future. With extensive experience in commercial and residential projects, including community spaces, private homes, historic conservation, and ecclesiastical buildings, we combine traditional expertise with modern technologies like BIM.Our RIBA Chartered Practice status ensures compliance with rigorous industry standards, while our AABC and RIBA Conservation accreditations underscore our leadership in heritage projects. We pride ourselves on transparent communication, tailored client partnerships, and innovative solutions that harmonize old and new.
Services
Concept Design
Technical Design
BIM Management
Conservation
Interior Design
Insurance Recovery
Drone Capture
Feasibility Studies
Master Planning
Heritage Statements
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- We offer 35 years of accredited conservation expertise led by AABC-qualified architects.
- Our team utilises BIM and Revit for precise, collaborative project delivery.
- We prioritise client partnerships, ensuring transparent communication throughout projects.
- Our RIBA Chartered Practice status guarantees adherence to industry excellence standards.
- We specialise in blending contemporary design with historic building preservation.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- AABC
- Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists
Services
Concept Design
We develop tailored concept designs through close client collaboration, ensuring alignment with budget, purpose, and planning requirements. Our process includes feasibility studies, site appraisals, and digital models to visualise proposals. This stage establishes the foundation for detailed planning applications and stakeholder negotiations, balancing creativity with practicality.
Historic Conservation
Specialising in listed buildings and scheduled monuments, we provide conservation plans, heritage statements, and repair strategies. Our AABC-accredited team works with Historic England and local authorities to preserve architectural integrity while integrating modern needs. Services include quinquennial inspections and grant application support for ecclesiastical and secular sites.
BIM Management
We implement Building Information Modelling (BIM) to enhance project collaboration and precision. Using Revit and cloud-based tools, we manage data from concept to construction, ensuring compliance with PAS 1192-2 Level 2 standards. This approach streamlines coordination with consultants and contractors for efficient project delivery.
Insurance Recovery
We specialise in reinstating historic properties after fire, flood, or storm damage. Our team negotiates with insurers, manages tenders, and oversees repairs using traditional and modern techniques. This includes mitigation strategies and technical detailing to restore buildings to their original condition while meeting current regulations.
Interior Design
Our interior design service focuses on functional, aesthetic spaces tailored to client needs. From kitchen layouts to bespoke joinery, we integrate architectural elements with furnishings. Collaborating with local designers, we ensure cohesive solutions for residential, commercial, and ecclesiastical projects while maintaining historical accuracy.
People
Nick Jacob
Founder & Principal
With 35 years in conservation, Nick leads the practices award-winning approach to historic buildings. He holds AABC accreditation and has revitalised landmarks like Gippeswyk Hall and St Georges Thornham. His expertise spans ecclesiastical and secular projects, blending heritage with modern design.
Shaun Soanes
Partner
A 30-year collaborator with Nick Jacob, Shaun manages large projects and IT systems. His work includes complex contemporary builds and conservation schemes. He also provides aerial drone surveys, capturing projects like the Isaac Lord Complex, enhancing design visualisation and client communication.
Hugh Bunbury
Consultant
With over 30 years experience, Hugh specialises in creative conservation and contemporary interventions in historic settings. RIBA-accredited, he has worked on listed buildings nationwide, focusing on residential and ecclesiastical projects. His expertise includes feasibility studies and accessibility improvements.
Pippa Jacob
Associate Partner
Pippa qualified in 2012 and focuses on sustainable adaptations of historic buildings. She lectures at the University of Suffolk and led projects like St Andrews Walberswick. Her work balances traditional methods with renewable technologies, ensuring heritage compliance and modern functionality.
Stephen Jeffery
Conservation Architect
Stephen oversees historic building appraisals and specializes in timber-framed structures. He has revitalised sites like the Marlborough Head Inn, merging old and new design elements. His work includes Heritage Lottery Fund applications and technical guidance for younger team members.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in concept design, historic conservation, BIM management, interior design, and insurance recovery for residential, commercial, and ecclesiastical projects.
How do you handle listed building projects?
Our AABC and RIBA Conservation-accredited team prepares heritage statements, conducts quinquennial inspections, and negotiates with authorities to ensure compliance while preserving historical integrity.
Can you assist with planning applications?
Yes, we provide feasibility studies, master planning, and stakeholder negotiations, including preparing Statements of Community Involvement and securing planning approvals.
Do you work outside Suffolk?
While based in Ipswich, we undertake projects nationwide, including London, the South East, and Scotland, focusing on heritage and conservation work.
How do you integrate sustainability into designs?
We prioritise energy-efficient materials, renewable technologies, and adaptive reuse of historic structures to minimize environmental impact while meeting modern standards.
What is your approach to client collaboration?
We maintain transparent communication, involving clients in every stage from concept to completion, ensuring their vision aligns with technical and regulatory requirements.
