Business Details
46 Years
experience
Your Trusted Chartered Architects in London
Established in 1980, John Simpson Architects has built a reputation as a leading force in classical and traditional architecture, urban design, and interior design. Our practice combines centuries-old design principles with modern technology to create timeless, sustainable spaces that enhance public and private environments. With projects spanning educational institutions, residential developments, medical facilities, and urban masterplans, we prioritise contextual sensitivity and cultural continuity. Our expertise in listed building conservation and innovative design codes has influenced government urban planning policies. Recognised globally, our work includes iconic projects such as The King's Gallery at Buckingham Palace and the School of Architecture at the University of Notre Dame.We maintain a commitment to excellence through rigorous attention to detail, client collaboration, and a deep understanding of architectural heritage. Our team of chartered architects and urban designers operates from London while delivering projects across Europe, the USA, and beyond. The practice has received numerous international awards, including the Arthur Ross Award for lifetime achievement and multiple RIBA accolades. We continue to shape architectural discourse through publications, academic partnerships, and thought leadership in traditional design methodologies.
Services
Architecture
Urban Design
Interior Design
Conservation & Restoration
Ecological Architecture
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- 40+ years pioneering classical architectural solutions
- RIBA-accredited experts in heritage conservation
- Pioneers of sustainable urban design codes
- Award-winning international project portfolio
- Direct collaboration with royal and academic institutions
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institute of British Architects
- INTBAU: International Network for Traditional Building, Architecture and Urbanism
Services
Architecture
Our architectural services combine classical principles with modern functionality, creating enduring structures for educational, residential, and commercial purposes. We specialise in designing buildings that harmonise with their historical context while meeting contemporary needs. Projects range from private residences to large-scale institutional developments, all characterised by meticulous attention to proportion, materials, and spatial quality.
Urban Design
We develop sustainable urban environments through masterplans that prioritise walkability, mixed-use spaces, and traditional street patterns. Our expertise includes creating design codes that ensure architectural coherence in new developments. This approach has shaped award-winning communities from Poundbury to Paris, balancing modern infrastructure with timeless urban aesthetics.
Interior Design
Our interior design services focus on creating functional yet aesthetically refined spaces that complement architectural context. From royal palaces to private homes, we integrate bespoke furniture, classical detailing, and modern comforts. The practice has completed high-profile interior projects at Buckingham Palace and Eton College, maintaining historical integrity while enhancing usability.
Conservation & Restoration
Specialists in preserving architectural heritage, we undertake conservation projects for listed buildings and historic sites. Our approach combines traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to restore structural integrity while maintaining historical authenticity. Notable projects include the restoration of Palazzo Grimani in Venice and Kensington Palace interiors.
Ecological Architecture
We integrate ecological principles into classical architecture through energy-efficient materials, passive design strategies, and sustainable urban planning. Our work demonstrates that traditional architectural languages can achieve modern environmental standards, as seen in Passive-Haus certified developments within ECO-districts.
People
John Simpson
Principal Architect & Founder
Professor John Simpson is a renowned architect and educator who has pioneered the revival of classical architecture. With over 40 years' experience, he has designed landmark projects including Buckingham Palace's King's Gallery and Notre Dame's School of Architecture. A RIBA member since 1980, he received the Arthur Ross Award for lifetime achievement.
Joanna Wachowiak
Director
Joanna Wachowiak leads major projects including Kensington Palace restoration and the Defence Rehabilitation Centre. A RIBA member with expertise in listed building conservation, she has directed award-winning developments at Peterhouse Cambridge and Poundbury's Market Hall. She combines traditional design principles with modern project management techniques.
Tiffany Abernathy
Director of US Projects
Tiffany Abernathy oversees North American operations with specialist knowledge of historic preservation. She has led projects including New York's Carhart Mansion restoration and Notre Dame's School of Architecture masterplan. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, she brings expertise in classical urbanism to transatlantic projects.
Victoria Lee
Associate Director
Victoria Lee manages complex urban developments and academic projects. With experience across Europe and Ireland, she has delivered phases of Eton College's McCrum Yard and the Royal College of Music's East Courtyard. Her expertise includes contract administration for large-scale conservation projects.
Questions
What architectural styles does John Simpson Architects specialise in?
We specialise in classical and traditional architecture, adapting historical design principles to modern requirements while maintaining contextual sensitivity in urban and rural settings.
Do you work on listed building conservation projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with Grade I and II listed buildings, including Buckingham Palace, Kensington Palace, and historic colleges at Cambridge University.
Can you handle international architectural commissions?
We operate globally with completed projects in the UK, USA, France, Italy, and Belgium, maintaining consistent design excellence across different regulatory environments.
What urban design principles guide your masterplans?
Our urban designs prioritise walkability, mixed-use spaces, and traditional street patterns, demonstrated in developments like Poundbury and Fairford Leys.
How do you incorporate sustainability into classical architecture?
We integrate passive design strategies, energy-efficient materials, and ecological planning while maintaining traditional architectural languages and forms.
