Business Details
Your Trusted RIBA Chartered Architects in Derby
Blair Gratton Architects is a RIBA Chartered Practice based in Derby, dedicated to transforming architectural visions into reality with a focus on sustainability, conservation, and innovative design. With over 130 years of collective experience, our team specialises in residential, commercial, and heritage projects, offering end-to-end services from feasibility studies to on-site contract management. Our approach prioritises collaboration, ensuring clients benefit from tailored solutions that balance functionality with aesthetic excellence. We adhere to the highest professional standards set by the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Architects Registration Board.Our expertise extends to conservation architecture, sustainable design, and ecclesiastical projects, supported by established relationships with local authorities and conservation officers. By integrating traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, we deliver spaces that meet contemporary needs while preserving historical integrity. Our portfolio includes eco-friendly renovations, listed building restorations, and community-focused developments, reflecting our commitment to environmental stewardship and client satisfaction. As a practice, we provide transparent, obligation-free consultations to explore how we can bring your architectural vision to life.
Services
Conservation Architecture
Sustainable Design
Building Inspections
Church Projects
Planning Consultancy
Highlights and features
- We offer over 130 years of combined experience in architectural design and conservation.
- Our team includes RIBA Chartered and Conservation Architects with specialist expertise.
- We provide obligation-free consultations and transparent project management.
- We are approved church inspecting architects for the Diocese of Leicester.
- Our practice adheres to RIBA conservation methodologies and sustainability standards.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA Chartered Practice
Services
Conservation Architecture
Specialising in the preservation of historic buildings, our conservation architecture services include listed building approvals, quinquennial inspections, and traditional repair techniques. We work closely with local authorities and conservation officers to ensure compliance with heritage regulations while maintaining structural integrity. Our expertise spans ecclesiastical projects, barn conversions, and Grade II listed restorations.
Sustainable Design
We integrate energy-efficient solutions and sustainable materials into residential and commercial projects, exceeding current thermal efficiency standards. Our approach includes passive ventilation systems, low-surface temperature heating, and locally sourced materials. Past projects demonstrate our commitment to reducing environmental impact while enhancing building functionality for modern use.
Building Inspections
Our comprehensive building inspections identify structural issues and provide detailed reports for residential and heritage properties. Services include drone surveys, condition assessments, and recommendations for repairs. We ensure clients receive accurate evaluations to inform renovation or conservation strategies.
Church Projects
We specialise in church renovations, choir stalls, and tower roof replacements, with expertise in faculty applications and Diocesan Advisory Committee requirements. Our team manages projects from initial inspections to on-site administration, ensuring compliance with religious and heritage standards while preserving architectural significance.
Planning Consultancy
We guide clients through the planning process, including applications, building regulations, and contract administration. Our services cover residential extensions, new builds, and commercial developments, ensuring alignment with local authority requirements and sustainable design principles.
People
Simon Gratton
Director & RIBA Chartered Conservation Architect
Qualified in 1998, Simon is a RIBA Chartered Conservation Architect with 26 years of experience. He leads church inspections for the Diocese of Derby and specialises in heritage projects, blending traditional techniques with modern sustainability standards.
John Gratton
Registered Architect
With 50 years of RIBA membership, John brings extensive architectural expertise to the practice. His career spans diverse projects, focusing on technical design and regulatory compliance, ensuring high standards in all delivered schemes.
Ray Harlow
Senior Technician
Ray has been with the practice since 1970, offering unparalleled technical design expertise. His deep knowledge of specification writing and construction details supports complex projects, from heritage restorations to modern developments.
Questions
What types of architectural projects do you specialise in?
We specialise in conservation, sustainable design, church projects, residential/commercial developments, and planning consultancy.
Are you qualified to work on listed buildings?
Yes, we are RIBA Chartered Conservation Architects with extensive experience in listed building approvals and heritage projects.
How do you ensure sustainability in your designs?
We use energy-efficient systems, passive ventilation, and locally sourced materials to exceed thermal efficiency standards while minimising environmental impact.
Can you assist with church renovation projects?
Yes, we manage church projects from faculty applications to on-site administration, including choir stalls and tower roof replacements.
Do you offer free initial consultations?
Yes, visit our Derby office for a free consultation to discuss your project with our team.
What areas do you serve?
We operate across Derby, Derbyshire, Dorset, and surrounding regions, handling both local and national projects.
