Business Details
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Guildford
Lytle Associates Architects is a RIBA Chartered Practice dedicated to creating buildings that harmonise purpose and place through inspired architectural design. Established in 2021 as an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), our structure ensures sustainable independence while fostering a collaborative culture driven by our team's expertise. With accreditations including ISO 9001 and membership of the Passivhaus Trust, we specialise in delivering tailored solutions across residential, educational, healthcare, heritage, and masterplanning sectors. Our approach prioritises sustainability, as evidenced by projects exceeding carbon-neutral standards and incorporating renewable technologies. Led by directors Darren Page, Sara Waterfield, and Richard Wilkinson, we combine over 60 years of collective experience to provide clear, logical design solutions that meet client needs while celebrating architectural excellence.Our commitment to quality is reflected in award-winning projects such as the Guildford sustainable home and Guildford Lido refurbishment, where attention to detail and natural integration with surroundings remain paramount. We maintain long-term partnerships with institutions like the University of Surrey, demonstrating our ability to translate complex requirements into functional, aesthetically pleasing spaces. As a client-focused practice, we ensure transparent communication throughout every project phase, from initial concept to final execution.
Services
Residential Architecture
Educational Projects
Healthcare Design
Heritage Restoration
Masterplanning
Sustainable Design
Passivhaus Certification
University Facilities
Community Buildings
Luxury Homes
Highlights and features
- RIBA Chartered Practice with ISO 9001 quality certification
- Employee-owned structure ensuring long-term commitment
- Specialists in Passivhaus-certified sustainable design
- Award-winning portfolio across five key sectors
- Collaborative approach with 20+ years average team experience
Associations and certifications
- RIBA Chartered Practice
- ISO 9001
- CIAT Arb Certified
- Passivhaus Trust
- Green Register
- SPAB Supporter
What people say
Knowledgeable and professional
Collaborative effort
Sustainable design prioritised
Award-winning quality
Positive community impact
Services
Residential Architecture
Creating bespoke residential solutions from single-dwelling new builds to large-scale apartment developments. Our approach combines modern living requirements with environmental considerations. Projects include award-winning sustainable homes that exceed carbon-neutral standards through innovative material selection and renewable energy integration.
Educational Projects
Designing inspiring learning environments for schools and universities. Specialising in Passivhaus-certified buildings that enhance student wellbeing through natural lighting and energy-efficient systems. Recent projects include specialist facilities for the University of Surrey and Salesian School's new assembly hall.
Heritage Restoration
Preserving architectural heritage through meticulous restoration of listed buildings. Expertise in Grade II listed structures and traditional construction methods. Current work includes revitalising 18th-century granary cartsheds while maintaining historical integrity and meeting modern usage needs.
Sustainable Design
Integrating environmental principles across all projects using Passivhaus standards. Services include energy modelling, renewable system integration, and material lifecycle analysis. Achieved 30% beyond carbon-neutral status in recent residential developments through solar panels and air source heat pumps.
Masterplanning
Creating comprehensive development strategies for communities and urban areas. Focus on sustainable growth, public spaces, and infrastructure integration. Recent projects include mixed-use developments balancing modern requirements with environmental conservation in Surrey's green belt areas.
People
Darren Page
Director
With over 20 years' experience, Darren leads design teams on complex residential and educational projects. His expertise in Passivhaus standards ensures sustainable solutions without compromising architectural quality. Committed to nurturing talent within our Employee Ownership Trust structure.
Sara Waterfield
Director
Specialising in heritage architecture, Sara brings technical excellence to listed building renovations. She oversees our conservation projects, ensuring historical integrity while meeting modern functionality needs. Her leadership drives our SPAB Supporter commitments and sustainable restoration practices.
Richard Wilkinson
Director
Masterplanning specialist with a focus on community-driven developments. Richard leads urban design projects that balance growth with environmental responsibility. His strategic vision shapes our approach to creating functional, future-proof spaces across Surrey and surrounding regions.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive services across residential, educational, healthcare, heritage, and masterplanning sectors with a focus on sustainable and Passivhaus-certified design.
Are you certified for sustainable building practices?
Yes, we hold ISO 9001 accreditation and are certified Passive House designers, specialising in energy-efficient, environmentally conscious architecture.
How does your Employee Ownership Trust structure benefit clients?
Our EOT structure ensures long-term commitment to quality, with decision-making driven by architect experts directly involved in projects rather than external shareholders.
Can you handle heritage building projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience in Grade II listed building renovations and heritage restorations, maintaining historical integrity while meeting modern requirements.
What areas do you serve?
We operate primarily across Surrey and surrounding counties, with notable projects in Guildford, Tadworth, Epsom, and Lingfield.
How do you ensure project quality?
Through RIBA Chartered Practice standards, regular internal audits, and a collaborative design process involving clients and contractors at every stage.
