Studio

Established in 1990, moving forward ever since.

Grainge Architects have developed considerable experience ranging across the whole spectrum of development and construction within the South West. Encompassing the full range of architectural services from urban design and feasibility studies to detailed technical design and material specifications; we know how to take a project from a concept sketch to a fully delivered building.

Ethos

Friendly and reliable.

At our core, we are a skilled, friendly, and reliable architectural practice. We know how to design and deliver buildings with longevity and purpose – and how to do it in a way that builds lasting relationships with communities and clients.

Listen, question, understand.

We know how to listen and how to ask questions to get to the core of the brief and establish the project fundamentals from which to start a successful design.

Creative common sense.

We are straight forward to deal with and instinctively know when to practice pragmatism, modesty, and economy and how to use it to enrich a place or a building.

Collaboration.

Grainge is a collaborative team with a range of specialisms. Whilst a director will oversee each project, we encourage a non-hierarchical approach with everyone empowered to contribute and refine. We have a fantastic network of reliable collaborators across the full spectrum of built environment services built over decades of working in the South West.

Context-driven architecture.

There is no ‘house style’ with Grainge Architects. Each client and site bring new stimulus to respond to, new problems to solve and this is what dictates our unique response.

Thoughtful and precise (always learning).

We are an RIBA certified practice working to the highest professional standards. We cultivate learning, persistently developing in our approach to construction techniques and technologies and refining our processes for high standards and efficient delivery.

Team

Sustainability

An awareness of the power of good design to make a positive impact on people and planet is at the heart of what we do.

We recognise that as Architects, we have both a responsibility and an opportunity to make a positive contribution to the environment through the buildings and spaces we design. We firmly believe that sustainable design goes hand-in-hand with creating healthy and joyful spaces to inhabit.

Sustainable principles and practices are intrinsic to Grainge’s approach to designing more efficient, liveable and resilient buildings. Our team, which includes a certified Passivhaus Designer, is experienced in achieving exceptional levels of energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

Our commitment to sustainability is underpinned by the way we operate our studio. We are proud to be ISO 14001 accredited and a Certified Carbon Neutral business with Carbon Neutral Britain. We are continuously improving our processes to reduce our carbon footprint on our path towards Net Zero.

Testimonials

“The approach and assistance of Grainge Architects has been consistently high standard throughout. From initial meetings viewing the property, to the first sketches, meetings with stakeholders, working up more formal drawings, modifications and final submission, Grainge have been there all the way….I would have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Grainge for future projects…”

Mr R Sanders

Riversmeet House

“Grainge Architects designed a scheme which has uncovered our site’s full potential and enhanced the intrinsic elements that make it so special. The resulting dwellings are stunning. The hotel has been sensitively transformed into expansive apartments and the new-build homes nestle into the surrounding woodland with curved, articulated forms that make the most of the wonderful views over the estuary. As befits a luxury development, the attention to detail was excellent and we are particularly pleased to have achieved a high level of energy efficiency and acoustic separation.”

Simon Friend (Red Earth Developments)

The Yealm Hotel

“The building provides an excellent environment for our patients and staff which has helped us as an organisation provide enhanced services to a wide range of people. The construction, location and timeline of both the project has been challenging but with the collective efforts of all, include Grainge Architects, it has enabled us to deliver fantastic modern therapeutic environments to enhance the recovery of our patients.”

Mark Barriball

Deputy Director of Estates and Facilities, Devon Partnership NHS Trust.

Mother & Baby Unit

I was so impressed with the look of the building and also with the quality of it […], I think it is really important for you to realise that you have created a beautiful building; a building that will be well used by and will enhance the local community. I hope that in years to come you will look at the Centre, give a little nod to yourself and say “yes, I did that”! 

Ken Miles, Chief Executive, North Devon Council 

Ilfracombe Watersports

“I have said on numerous occasions that the best decision we have taken on this project was bringing Grainge on board……and would whole-heartedly recommend them.”

Bryce Wilby, Headteacher.

Five Islands School

“Grainge were great to work with and listened to our needs….. It’s a brilliant outcome for pupils, staff and community.”

Nuala McDermott, (School Business Manager)

Chagford School

Careers

Jobs

Our office sits within walking distance of Exeter’s historic quay where we are ideally placed for the unique work-life balance that living and working in South Devon has to offer. A career at Grainge Architects involves working across all project stages and wide variety of sectors.

Across our team individuals display a vast range of specialisms but we do not believe in pigeon-holing. This approach ultimately benefits our clients and their projects, enables the practice to be dynamic and flexible, and promotes continual development and learning within our team.

Whilst we are not currently actively recruiting, we are always interested to hear from talented and enthusiastic people who would like to join our team. If you feel you would be a good fit please send an email with a brief covering letter, CV and portfolio (max 10mb) to our office email address below.

Apprenticeships

Grainge Architects have a long history of working with students through their Architectural study whether through the ARB-approved degrees or via Apprentice courses for budding Architects and Technologists. Many of our team did some or all of their initial training with Grainge before fully qualifying and becoming long-term members of the team. We regularly take apprentices from Exeter College and are proud to be able to support our colleagues in progressing through their education alongside working at Grainge.

Please get in touch using our office email address below if you would like to talk about joining our team.

It’s safe to say, we’re certified

Contact

Telephone:

01392 438051

Office location:

The Boat Shed, Michael Browning Way, Exeter, Devon EX2 8DD