Business Details
13 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architects in London
Established in 2013, Sam Architects is a London-based practice founded by Sandi Johnen and Melanie Schubert. Our portfolio spans residential, interior, furniture design, commercial, and master planning projects, demonstrating our versatility and commitment to innovative solutions. We prioritise rigorous research, craftsmanship, and environmental efficiency, ensuring each project responds to its unique context. Our design philosophy balances creativity with analytical precision, delivering functional, cost-effective spaces that enhance user experience.With over two decades of combined experience in London's architectural landscape, including roles at renowned firms like David Chipperfield and Grimshaw Architects, we bring deep expertise to every commission. Client collaboration remains central to our process, ensuring outcomes that align with practical needs and aspirational goals. Our work reflects a dedication to quality, sustainability, and the belief that thoughtful design adds enduring value.
Services
Residential Design
Commercial Architecture
Interior Design
Master Planning
Sustainable Design
Details
- Year established: 2013
Highlights and features
- We deliver diverse projects from residential to commercial with equal expertise
- Our designs integrate sustainability and environmental efficiency principles
- Founders bring 20+ years of London architectural experience from top firms
- We combine creative enthusiasm with rigorous analytical design processes
- Client collaboration ensures tailored solutions that exceed expectations
What people say
Absolute joy
Highly recommend
Great experience
Genuinely listening
Thoroughly recommend
Services
Residential Design
Specializing in residential projects from period home renovations to modern extensions. Our approach preserves original character while integrating contemporary functionality. We create adaptable living spaces that evolve with homeowners' needs, incorporating sustainable materials and energy-efficient solutions. Projects demonstrate meticulous attention to detail and seamless indoor-outdoor integration.
Commercial Architecture
Delivering innovative commercial spaces that balance aesthetics with practical requirements. Our designs optimize natural light, create flexible work environments, and incorporate branded design elements. We specialize in adaptive reuse projects that respect architectural heritage while meeting modern business needs through strategic spatial planning.
Interior Design
Creating cohesive interior environments that enhance spatial functionality. Our services include bespoke joinery design, material selection, and lighting schemes. We focus on creating multi-functional spaces with restrained material palettes that maintain timeless appeal while addressing specific client requirements through collaborative design processes.
Sustainable Design
Integrating environmental considerations throughout the design process. Our sustainable approach includes passive design strategies, material lifecycle analysis, and energy-efficient systems. We implement solutions like rainwater harvesting, natural ventilation, and thermal insulation to create buildings that minimize environmental impact while maximizing long-term efficiency.
Master Planning
Developing comprehensive spatial strategies for large-scale projects. Our master planning considers contextual relationships, circulation patterns, and future adaptability. We create cohesive environments that balance built form with open spaces, ensuring developments respond to both immediate needs and long-term urban evolution through research-driven design solutions.
People
Melanie Schubert
Co-Founder
Co-founder with 20+ years London architectural experience. Studied in Germany and Italy, worked at David Chipperfield and Grimshaw Architects. Specializes in residential projects and client collaboration.
Sandi Johnen
Co-Founder
Co-founder bringing extensive commercial architecture expertise. Trained in Germany and Italy, with experience at Conran & Partners and AHMM. Focuses on innovative design solutions and project delivery.
Questions
What architectural styles does SAM Architecture specialize in?
We work across styles while maintaining core principles of functionality and sustainability. Our portfolio includes modern interventions in period properties and contemporary commercial designs that respect brutalist heritage.
How does SAM Architecture approach sustainability?
Sustainability is integrated through material selection, passive design strategies, and systems like rainwater harvesting. We prioritize long-term efficiency without compromising aesthetic quality or functional requirements.
Can they handle complex London planning constraints?
Yes, with deep knowledge of London's architectural heritage and planning regulations. Their experience includes successful projects within the Barbican complex and Peckham's Victorian properties.
What project scales do they typically handle?
We work on projects of all scales from small residential renovations to large commercial masterplans, maintaining equal attention to detail and design quality across all commissions.
How involved are the founders in projects?
Founders Melanie and Sandi lead projects directly, ensuring consistent design vision and client collaboration throughout the process from concept to completion.
