James Williamson Architects
Architect in Woking, Surrey
James Williamson Architects Ltd is a RIBA Chartered architectural practice located in Surrey, specializing in high-quality residential architecture for homeowners who need clear guidance, regulatory expertise, and well-thought-out design outcomes. The practice is based in Surrey, and focuses mainly on residential extensions, renovations, retrofits, and new-build homes, collaborating closely with private clients across Surrey and the wider South East.
Projects undertaken by the practice include transformations of kitchens and living spaces, loft conversions, whole-house renovations, low-energy retrofits, heritage properties, and bespoke new-build homes.
James Williamson Architects is recognized for its structured and stress-reducing approach to residential projects, guiding clients step by step through the process.
From early feasibility and planning advice to concept design, planning submissions, technical design, and construction-stage support, the practice places particular emphasis on clarity, buildability, and risk management.
This approach enables clients to make confident decisions and avoid costly mistakes, and the practice has strong expertise in UK planning systems, building regulations, and technical coordination.
The practice also fulfils the Principal Designer role under the CDM Regulations, ensuring that projects are well-designed, compliant, safe, and deliverable on site.
James Williamson Architects collaborates with consultants, contractors, and local authorities to maintain quality and continuity throughout each project, with sustainability and long-term performance being integral to its work.
This includes adopting a fabric-first approach to design, creating energy-efficient layouts, incorporating low-carbon technologies, and developing sensitive retrofit strategies for existing buildings.
The practice has experience working with conservation areas and listed buildings, balancing character and heritage with modern comfort and performance, and with deep local knowledge of Surrey planning authorities.
The practice has a calm, client-focused ethos, helping homeowners create practical, comfortable, and long-lasting homes, while making the design and construction process as clear and manageable as possible, which is the key focus of James Williamson Architects.
Areas Served
- Surrey, Sussex, Berkshire, Hampshire, London
Business Details
- Licensed and insured
- Year established: 2020
- Number of employees: 4
Highlights & Specialties
- RIBA Chartered architect delivering clarity, confidence, and calm.
- Bespoke renovations, extensions, and new-build homes designed.
- Planning advice and feasibility studies to unlock potential.
- Passive House and EnerPHit retrofits for efficient living.
- Collaborative 3D and virtual reality design visualisation.
- End-to-end support, from permissions through to completion.
Professional Associations & Certifications
- RIBA Chartered Practice
Social Profiles
Contact Details
Products & Services
Home Renovations & Extensions
read moreWe help clients unlock the full potential of their homes without the upheaval of moving. By offering a clear, step-by-step process, we replace uncertainty with informed choices. Each project is designed to improve flow, comfort and practicality, resulting in homes that feel calmer, brighter and better suited to family living.New Build
read moreOur new build service is centred on creating homes that feel considered, efficient, and built to endure. We guide families through each step with clarity, helping them make informed decisions without unnecessary stress. Design choices are shaped by lifestyle, light, and energy efficiency. The result is a home that is both beautiful and adaptable over time.Heritage & Conservation
read moreWe help owners of historic and listed homes navigate conservation requirements with clarity and care. By combining architectural expertise with a deep respect for original fabric, we ensure every intervention is appropriate and well judged. Our process removes uncertainty, allowing clients to enhance their homes without compromising their heritage value.Interior Architecture
read moreOur interior architecture service is designed to help homeowners redesign with confidence rather than overwhelm. We translate early ideas into clear, practical solutions, supporting you from first concepts to completed interiors. Every project combines thoughtful planning, refined aesthetics, and durable materials to deliver spaces that feel effortless, personal, and enduring.Reviews Write a Review
John Armenakas
Sep 19, 2025
James was wonderful to work with, and provided us with 2 wonderful designs that captured everything we wanted in our extension. Once we decided the design we wanted to move forward with, James worked through the planning approval process for us. The results are amazing, and we are so happy with the way our extension looks.
Tom Wood
Dec 30, 2024
We have worked closely with James on a few different projects now and it has been a great experience from design to completion.
Clear, concise design and drawings made the construction process extremely smooth.
We would highly recommend James Williamson Architects.
Clear, concise design and drawings made the construction process extremely smooth.
We would highly recommend James Williamson Architects.
Heather Steen
Nov 28, 2024
Our experience with James was fantastic throughout!
After an initial survey of the space, and design proposal, we had in-depth discussions with James together with our builder. He listened to our thoughts and preferences, took time to answer questions really clearly and show us options, before we agreed on a final plan. We were really pleased to have James back to visit to see the end result.
I would thoroughly recommend!
After an initial survey of the space, and design proposal, we had in-depth discussions with James together with our builder. He listened to our thoughts and preferences, took time to answer questions really clearly and show us options, before we agreed on a final plan. We were really pleased to have James back to visit to see the end result.
I would thoroughly recommend!
Sam Price
Dec 17, 2023
I can not recommend James enough. He was was a recommendation from our builder and worked for us after we had a poor experience with another architect. James was quick, thorough and a delight to deal with. Would most definitely use James again and have recommended him to friends already.
James Pace
Nov 27, 2023
Fantastic service throughout the whole design process and would highly recommend to anyone looking to renovate or extend their property.
Sally Hewison
Sep 15, 2023
We engaged James to explore the possibility of updating our small bungalow and incorporating an additional bedroom and bathroom. Communication was very smooth and James listened attentively, understood the brief well and produced an imaginative design which used the limited space available to its best advantage. The design included floor plans and a 3D virtual walkthrough. We decided for personal reasons not to go further at the present time, but if our situation changes in the future we will be more than happy to continue working with JWA
Joseph Kane
Jun 23, 2023
James designed a wrap around extension to our Victorian terraced house and we couldnt be happier with the job he did. Very straightforward to deal with, fantastic design proposals and great imagery to help us visualise the different options. The technical drawings he prepared were very accurate which helped make the build process as straightforward as it could be. Would definitely recommend.
Key People
James Williamson
RIBA Chartered Architectread moreI am James Williamson, a RIBA Chartered Architect. Raised in the South West, I value architecture that responds discreetly to its setting and improves everyday living. Following more than a decade with award-winning practices in the UK and overseas, I established James Williamson Architects in 2020. My aim is to help clients create homes that feel intuitive, lasting and personal.