Business Details
Sustainable Architecture & Design Solutions
Cayford Architecture is an award-winning environmental architecture practice dedicated to sustainable development, retrofitting, and early-stage feasibility services. With expertise in Passivhaus standards and a commitment to enhancing wellbeing and asset value, we deliver high-quality design solutions across residential, workplace, education, hospitality, and infrastructure sectors. Our team, chartered by RIBA and certified in Passivhaus and AECB standards, specialises in embedding sustainability into project briefs for clients ranging from local authorities to private individuals. We combine technical excellence with a collaborative approach to create inspiring, energy-efficient buildings that prioritise occupant comfort and environmental resilience.Our accolades include multiple RIBA National Awards and recognition for innovative client advisory roles in large-scale projects. By integrating cutting-edge energy modelling and ecological materials, we ensure buildings meet rigorous efficiency targets while fostering creativity and productivity. Our dual focus on design excellence and practical implementation spans new builds, retrofits, and phased energy efficiency strategies, supported by accreditations such as PAS 2035 Retrofit Coordination and AECB Certification. With studios in London and Sydney, we serve diverse clients seeking to align their built environments with sustainability goals.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Passivhaus Design
Retrofit Coordination
Client Advisory
AECB Certification
Highlights and features
- We are RIBA Chartered Architects with 30+ years of experience in sustainable design.
- Certified Passivhaus Designers delivering energy-efficient buildings since 2012.
- Award-winning practice with 10+ RIBA National Awards for architectural excellence.
- PAS 2035-accredited Retrofit Coordinators ensuring compliant, future-proof upgrades.
- Client-focused approach integrating sustainability from project inception.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA Chartered Practice
- Certified Passivhaus Designer
- AECB Certifier
- Retrofit Coordinator to PAS 2035
What people say
Excellent to work with
Award-winning buildings
Inspirational
Highest quality finish
Successful planning response
Services
Sustainable Architecture
We create energy-efficient buildings prioritising environmental and occupant wellbeing. Our approach integrates passive design principles, ecological materials, and rigorous energy modelling to meet standards like Passivhaus and AECB. Clients benefit from reduced operational costs and enhanced asset value through future-proofed, climate-resilient structures tailored to specific project needs.
Passivhaus Design
Specialist design services achieving ultra-low energy consumption through PHPP modelling. We deliver certified Passivhaus and EnerPHit buildings with guaranteed performance metrics. Our expertise ensures optimal thermal comfort, air quality, and construction quality via rigorous certification processes, reducing energy bills by up to 90% compared to conventional buildings.
Retrofit Coordination
PAS 2035-compliant retrofit solutions for existing buildings. We implement fabric-first upgrades balancing insulation, ventilation, and energy efficiency to decarbonise stock. Our coordinated approach prevents common retrofit failures, ensuring compliance with Trustmark and Elmhurst Energy standards while improving comfort and property value.
Client Advisory
RIBA-accredited advisory services shaping project visions from inception. We facilitate stakeholder engagement, feasibility studies, and design team selection to create robust briefs. This hands-off role ensures sustainability integration early in projects, streamlining approvals and aligning outcomes with client strategic goals across sectors.
AECB Certification
Certification services under the AECB CarbonLite standards for new and retrofit projects. We validate energy performance using PHPP, ensuring buildings meet stringent low-energy targets. This affordable alternative to Passivhaus maintains rigorous quality control while delivering healthy, efficient spaces that reduce environmental impact.
People
Paul Cayford
Principal Designer
Chartered Architect and Certified Passivhaus Designer with 30+ years' experience. RIBA Client Adviser steering group member, co-author of sustainability briefing guidelines. Specialises in integrating eco-principles into complex projects.
Junko Suetake
Chartered RIBA Member
Award-winning Japanese architect with expertise in sustainable materials and low-energy design. Certified Passivhaus Designer since 2012, delivering residential projects combining meticulous detailing with environmental performance.
Joanne Sawicki
Communications Consultant
Media and business strategist with experience in public consultation and project briefing. Former trustee for Chiswick House restoration, aiding clients in defining needs during project inception phases.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in sustainable architecture, Passivhaus design, retrofit coordination, and client advisory services across residential, commercial, and public sectors.
Are you certified for Passivhaus projects?
Yes, we are Certified Passivhaus Designers with completed projects meeting both new-build and retrofit standards since 2012.
How do you approach retrofitting existing buildings?
We follow PAS 2035 protocols, ensuring fabric-first upgrades with balanced insulation and ventilation to prevent failures while improving energy efficiency.
What areas do you serve?
We operate from London with projects across the UK and Australia, handling commissions nationally and internationally.
Can you assist with project briefing and feasibility?
Yes, as RIBA Client Advisers, we formulate project visions, conduct stakeholder consultations, and prepare detailed briefs before design stages begin.
What accreditations do you hold?
We are RIBA Chartered, AECB Certified, and PAS 2035 Retrofit Coordinators, ensuring compliance with leading sustainability and construction standards.
