HIRST ARCHITECTS
Royal Institute of British Architects RIBA Chartered Practice
Who We Work With
At Hirst Architects, we believe that the best architecture comes from collaboration rooted in shared values. That’s why we choose to work with clients who align with our practice ethos, those who value quality, integrity, and a considered approach to the built environment.​ ​
Our clients come to us because they care deeply about what they’re creating—whether it’s a home, a place of work, or a civic space. They are committed to doing things properly, with clarity of purpose and an ambition for long-term value. We work best with clients who:Value good design and quality outcomes Are open, honest and collaborativeWant to create something meaningful, responsible and lasting
Hirst Architects is a RIBA Chartered Practice based in Barnsley, South Yorkshire, delivering thoughtful, contemporary architecture rooted in place and purpose.
Led by Chartered Architect Luke Hirst, we offer a highly personalised service to private clients, developers, and community organisations across Yorkshire and beyond.
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We specialise in crafting sustainable, contextually sensitive designs – from bespoke homes and heritage conversions to commercial spaces and public realm improvements.
Our approach combines rigorous design thinking with a deep understanding of planning, construction, and local identity.
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At Hirst Architects, we believe architecture should be both beautiful and practical.
Every project is a collaboration – shaped by the clients aspirations, informed by our expertise, and underpinned by a commitment to quality, integrity, and detail.
​​We don’t just work with anyone
To protect the integrity of our work and ensure we deliver the best outcomes, we’re careful about the clients and projects we take on. We do not take on projects that conflict with our professional standards, our design ethos, or our responsibilities as a RIBA Chartered Practice. This includes:
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Clients who avoid collaboration
We don’t work with individuals or developers who won’t engage meaningfully with our team, ignore advice, or treat architects as box-tickers. We provide quality to be valued. We need open communication and mutual respect to do our best work.
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Developments focused solely on profit without reguard for quality
If the only driver is maximum yield at the expense of quality, context or community, we’re not the right fit.
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Retrospective planning 'fixes'
We generally avoid ‘damage limitation’ work where unauthorised construction has already taken place without any consultation or regard for the planning process.
​Generic Designs, Copy-and-paste schemes
We’re not interested in producing off-the-shelf or generic designs that lack site sensitivity or ambition.
Poor or low quality extensions and conversions
If the brief is to ‘just get it through planning’ or to squeeze in rooms without regard for light, layout or longevity, we’ll usually decline.
Clients who undermine the process
We won’t work with those who want to cut corners on regulations, sidestep professional fees, or rush decisions without proper thought.
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Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
These often compromise on space, quality, and long-term social value. We don’t believe they reflect good architecture. so we steer clear.
We believe great architecture needs shared trust, professional respect and a genuine desire to get things right. If those values aren't there, we’ll politely step away.
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What We Stand For
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At Hirst Architects, we design with purpose.
Based in Yorkshire and proud to be a Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Chartered Practice, we believe architecture should be rooted in integrity, context and care, not just for buildings, but for people and place.
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We’re here to make a positive impact through thoughtful design and strong working relationships. Our practice is built on honesty, integrity, trust, creativity, and a commitment to quality that runs through everything we do, from one-off homes to complex developments.​ We believe in clear, honest communication and working collaboratively with our clients. The best results come when there is shared respect, openness and a commitment to doing things properly. We stand for:
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Purposeful design
We don’t believe in designing for the sake of it. Our work aims to improve how people live, work and interact with the world around them.
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Responsibility
As architects, we take our responsibilities seriously — to our clients, to the planning process, and to future generations.
Sustainability
Every project is an opportunity to build better: to tread more lightly, think more carefully, and contribute something lasting.
Professionalism
As a RIBA Chartered Practice, we uphold the highest standards of design quality, ethics and client care.
