A small practice, and you get the person running it
cuppa architects has been designing homes across North Somerset and surrounding areas since 2017, built on more than twenty years working in architecture, design, planning and construction.
The team
Just the two of us: one with a few more qualifications, and the other with a much better nose for biscuits.
James Brown
Architect + Director
ARB registered architect and accredited planning agent, with more than twenty years in architecture, design, planning and construction.
James visits every house himself and enjoys meeting people (and their pets) and balancing creativity with problem solving. By taking care of the red tape, he leaves clients free to enjoy the process, confident in their decisions and as involved as they'd like.
It all started with school work experience alongside Steve Ritchie, his parents' architect, and they went on to work together for many years. Steve has since retired, though they're long overdue a curry.
His biggest kick is sharing a cuppa with clients as they see their finished home, perfectly tailored to them and how they wish to live.
Trained at the University of Plymouth and UWE in Bristol, completing all three parts of architectural training (RIBA Parts 1, 2 and 3) to qualify as an architect. A member of the Association of Consultant Architects.
“Their drawings are very detailed and in my opinion the best we have ever had.”
Local builder contact
“He is a great listener, and has fantastic communication skills.”
Gemma
“The drawings are greatly detailed, easy to read and follow.”
Chartered structural engineer contact
“James has a special design flair, and talent for sketching & presentation.”
Simon
“The quality and detail in the drawings is fantastic.”
Specialist building and carpentry contact
“Diligent and able to work under pressure, often going that extra mile.”
Mike
“A competent architect highly skilled in building design who was a pleasure to work with.”
Usually first to the door and always on hand when a fuss is available. Specialises in site inspections of the biscuit tin and quality control of anything left on the floor.
Everyone always asks, so: Bellatrix is a Border Collie‑Labrador cross, which makes for a mix of proactive intelligence and real affection for people.
Employee of the Month, six years running.
“Always happy to see us.”
Delivery driver
“Rarely barks, but always wags.”
Builder
“Surprisingly shiny.”
Consulting engineer
Proud to be recognised
We don't do it for the trophies, but it's lovely when the work gets noticed. The LABC Building Excellence Awards recognise the best design, approach, partnerships and results of building work across England and Wales, and we've won four times, at regional level and in the national grand final.
National grand final winner
Best Residential and Small Commercial Designer
England and Wales
Regional winner
Best Residential Designer
South West
Regional winner
Best Residential and Small Commercial Designer
South West
Regional winner
Best Residential Extension
West and Wales
Other industry awards
Smart homes, small projects and residential architecture
A handful of other wins over the years, including the Smart Home Award at the Smart Living Awards, Small Project Architect of the Year and Residential Architects of the Year.
Part of the community
Being a small local practice means being part of the place we work. Alongside client projects, we give time and expertise where it helps.
Charities and not-for-profits
Design help where it counts
We support local charities and community groups, from a community gym and a local service club to a musical theatre society, LGBTQ+ organisations and local fundraising. Each year we also work with not-for-profits and community interest companies, usually at a much reduced cost, and James has served as a trustee of a community arts charity.
Youth sport
Backing local clubs
We sponsor and support local grassroots clubs, from youth football to gymnastics.
Well-being
Mental health in construction
An ambassador for the Architects Benevolent Society since 2018, promoting positive mental health across the construction industry, and holder of the RSPH Level 3 Award in Mental Health First Aid.
Future architects
Passing it on
Supporting the next generation of architects, designers and construction professionals with work experience placements, careers and education workshops, design reviews and crits, and introductions to the Architects Benevolent Society where it helps. A STEM and STEAM ambassador and mentor from secondary school through to post-graduate.
Local business
Out and about
A regular face at local business events, homeowner shows and community events.
Sustainability
Lighter footprint
Carbon Literacy certified and a Plastic Free Champion, so lower-impact choices come up early in every design.
Accreditations and memberships
ARB registered architectAssociation of Consultant Architects (ACArch)Accredited planning agent, North Somerset CouncilBuilding Control accredited partnershipFederation of Small Businesses memberCarbon Literacy certifiedRSPH Level 3 Mental Health First AidArchitects Benevolent Society ambassadorPlastic Free Champion
Kind words from clients
Homeowners tell us we listen, explain everything clearly and take the stress out of the process.
