Brighton & Sussex has a lot of architects. In 2025, there were over 120 architects working in Brighton & Hove. More than 60 of them have 5 star ratings on public review sites. This is a very high number compared to many other UK cities.
According to a RIBA survey, about 76 % of homeowners who hired an architect said they were very happy or satisfied with their project. People who didn’t hire an architect were less satisfied. This shows that working with an architect often leads to better results for your home.
Hiring a good architect really matters. Working with the right architect can make a big difference to your project. That’s why we ranked the top 10 architects in Brighton and Sussex based on our key indicators.
Architect Evaluation Rubrics (How We Scored the Top 10)
To make our rankings clear and fair, we gave each architect a score based on several key factors. These include combined reviews, project experience, typical job costs, and more. This way, everything is transparent, and you can see exactly how each architect compares.
| Metric Category | Weight |
| Reviews (Google + Houzz) | 25 |
| Portfolio Strength (extensions/lofts/new builds) | 20 |
| Local Sussex & Brighton Expertise | 15 |
| Responsiveness & Turnaround | 15 |
| Cost Transparency / Value | 15 |
| Specialisations (planning, heritage, sustainability) | 10 |
| Industry Recognition (badges/awards) | 10 |
These are the top 10 architects in Brighton & Sussex, ranked based on our scoring framework.
1) Spruce Architecture — (5.0 ★★★★★, 43 Google Reviews & 4.9 ★★★★★, 10 Houzz Reviews)
Overall Score: 90 / 100
Spruce Architecture is a highly rated architectural practice based in Lewes, East Sussex, founded in 2014 by director Phill Brady. The firm has developed a strong reputation for delivering residential design and planning services across Sussex, Surrey and Kent, focusing on extensions, loft conversions, new homes and heritage work with clear communication and practical design solutions.
According to their profile on architecture listings and firm information, Spruce has built an experienced team and a growing project portfolio since its formation.
Key Metrics
- Google & Houzz Ratings: 5.0⭐ on Google (43 reviews) and 4.9⭐ on Houzz with 10 reviewer ratings.
- Houzz Projects Posted: 21 projects showcased on their Houzz profile.
- Residential Project Diversity: Projects include extensions, large loft conversions, new homes and listed property adaptations.
- Planning Experience: Multiple planning permissions secured on varied residential and heritage projects, reflecting local planning capability.
- Typical Build Scale: Projects handled range widely in size and complexity (often between smaller remodels to larger bespoke homes).
“Spruce Architecture consistently delivers creative solutions for large family homes while navigating complex planning requirements in Brighton. Their attention to detail and strong client communication really sets them apart,” says Residential Architecture Analyst.
Additional Metrics
- Best for: Large family homes > £700k
- Strongest areas: BN2, BN3 (wider Sussex & Brighton region coverage)
- Buyer type: Relocators from London and families seeking substantial renovations
- Planning strength: Demonstrated success securing approvals, including for heritage and conservation sensitive work
- Average fee: 8–10 % of build cost (typical for residential architecture services in the UK)
Spruce Architecture’s excellent ratings on both Google and Houzz, combined with a solid track record of diverse residential projects and planning successes, make it a standout choice for homeowners in Sussex.
2. Stewart Nicholson Architects — (5.0 ★★★★★, 20 Google Reviews & 5.0 ★★★★★, 17 Houzz Reviews)
Overall Score: 85 / 100
Stewart Nicholson Architects is a Brighton & Hove–based residential architect known for thoughtful, practical design on extensions, conversions and new builds. The practice was established in 2008 by Stewart Nicholson, who trained at the Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London before gaining experience in both London and Brighton practices.
His work blends contemporary design with sensitivity to site and context, and he has experience delivering projects through planning, detailing and construction.
Key Metrics
- Google & Houzz Ratings: 5.0⭐ on Google (20 reviews) and 5.0⭐ on Houzz with 17 reviewer ratings.
- Houzz Projects Posted: 16 projects featured on Houzz, showing a range of extensions, remodels and new build work.
- Typical Job Cost: Reported in industry listings at £50,000 – £750,000, reflecting a broad range from smaller renovations to mid-sized extensions and home builds.
- Planning Strength: Proven ability to secure planning approval, including complex sites such as conservation areas and infill development.
- Service Area & Local Expertise: Projects completed across Brighton, Hove and Sussex, with design work sensitive to conservation area contexts and local planning policies.
Additional Metrics
- Best for: Detailed residential extensions, loft conversions and context-sensitive new builds
- Strongest areas: BN3 (Hove), central Brighton and nearby Sussex suburbs
- Buyer type: Families and owner-occupiers seeking bespoke renovation guidance
- Planning strength: High success in conservation area planning submissions and approvals
- Average fee: 8–10 % of build cost (typical UK architect range)
Stewart Nicholson Architects stands out for its consistently excellent ratings on both Google and Houzz and a solid portfolio of real-world residential projects. According to Houzz reviews, clients frequently praise his clarity in communication, practical design ideas and helpful guidance through planning and construction.
3. Life Size Architecture — (5.0 ★★★★★, 22 Google Reviews & 5.0 ★★★★★ 29 Houzz Reviews)
Overall Score: 81 / 100
Life Size Architecture is a Brighton-based architectural practice founded by Rob Beer, evolving from earlier design work under 3eleven Design. The firm focuses on residential architecture, helping clients with extensions, remodels and new home builds throughout Brighton, London and the South East.
Its portfolio shows a wide range of project types, from conservation extensions to full home restructures, and it’s praised for thoughtful design and client collaboration.
Key Metrics
- Google & Houzz Ratings: 5.0⭐ on Google with 22 reviews; 5.0⭐ average on Houzz from 29 reviewers.
- Houzz Projects Listed: 47 projects showcased on Houzz.
- Typical Job Build Scale: Projects typically range from £200,000 to £1,000,000 in construction value.
- Project Diversity: Portfolio includes conservation extensions, loft conversions, full remodels and new builds across Sussex and beyond.
- Local expertise: Experienced in Brighton, Hove and wider East Sussex residential projects including extensions and conservation work in places like Beaconsfield Villas (Brighton) and St Leonards Road, Hove.
“Life Size Architecture has a remarkable portfolio of high-value projects, particularly in extensions and loft conversions. Their understanding of local design context and planning regulations is exceptional,” notes Sussex Design Consultant.
Additional Metrics
- Best for: Personalised home renovations, extensions and bespoke new builds
- Strongest areas: BN1 and wider Brighton & Hove
- Buyer type: Families and creative homeowners seeking thoughtful design
- Planning strength: Effective planning support with multiple successful projects
- Average fee: 8–10 % of build cost (typical architect range)
Life Size Architecture’s perfect ratings on both Google and Houzz, along with a substantial project list, show strong client satisfaction and consistent delivery. According to the Houzz platform, clients regularly praise its creative design ideas, communication and practical planning assistance across different project types.
4. EN Architects — 5.0 ★★★★★, 42 Google Reviews & 5.0 ★★★★★ 12 Houzz Reviews)
Overall Score: 80 / 100
EN Architects is a Brighton & Hove–based architectural studio focused on contemporary design tailored to client needs. According to their own website, they design spaces that enhance everyday life by balancing creativity with functional requirements. While firm background details are less widely published, EN Architects appears consistently in local listings with strong client feedback and design-led project examples.
Key Metrics
- Google & Houzz Ratings: 5.0⭐ on Google with 42 reviews; 5.0⭐ on Houzz with 12 reviewers.
- Houzz Projects Listed: 24 projects visible on Houzz, showing residential design work including extensions and detailed renovations.
- Typical Job Build Scale: Projects range widely, from £25,000 up to £1 million.
- Local Expertise: Works across Brighton, Hove and surrounding Sussex communities with a design-focused approach.
“EN Architects excels at blending functionality with style. Their work ranges from small renovations to larger new builds, always tailored to the client’s needs and the local environment,” says Urban Design Analyst.
Additional Metrics
- Best for: Personalised residential extensions and renovation design
- Strongest areas: BN3 (Hove) and wider Brighton
- Buyer type: Homeowners focused on contemporary design outcomes
- Planning strength: Consistent planning track record on residential projects
- Average fee: 8–10 % of build cost (typical for local architects)
EN Architects’ excellent ratings and steady project count on Houzz reflect strong client satisfaction. According to reviews, clients appreciate the firm’s careful listening to needs and thoughtful design solutions for residential briefs.
Figure 1. An architect at work in Brighton & Sussex, designing a residential extension and loft conversion using AutoCAD and hand sketches.
5. Shape Architecture Brighton — 4.9 ★★★★★, 28 Google Reviews & 5.0 ★★★★★, 8 Houzz Reviews)
Overall Score: 78 / 100
Shape Architecture Brighton is a long-established residential architectural practice working across Brighton, Hove and beyond. The studio has over 20 years of experience and is a Chartered RIBA practice known for creative, light-filled designs, sensitive extensions and complex listed building work. According to the firm, each project is shaped by site, brief and budget, with emphasis on sustainability and planning success.
Key Metrics
- Google & Houzz Ratings: 4.9⭐ on Google with 28 reviews; 5.0⭐ on Houzz (8 reviewers).
- Houzz Projects Listed: 26 projects highlighted, including basement conversions, listed building refurbishments and roof terraces.
- Typical Job Build Scale: Projects span from £100,000 up to £5 million in build value.
- Planning Strength: Extensive experience securing planning permissions — including conservation areas and listed sites, reflecting deep local expertise.
- Portfolio Variety: Works include roof terraces, basement extensions and listed interiors, with several technically complex residential wins.
“Shape Architecture stands out for tackling ambitious projects, sometimes up to £5 million, with a clear focus on modern design and practical build solutions. They are highly respected in Brighton for their innovative approaches,” comments Architectural Strategy Expert.
Additional Metrics
- Best for: Large, transformative residential projects and historic refurbishment
- Strongest areas: BN1, Hove and central Brighton conservation areas
- Buyer type: Owners with heritage homes or larger renovation briefs
- Planning strength: High success on sensitive planning applications
- Average fee: 8–12 % of build cost (reflecting range of project complexity)
Shape Architecture’s combination of longstanding experience, RIBA chartership and a broad project range positions it well for clients seeking transformative residential design, especially where planning and heritage sensitivities matter.
6. Shear Architectural Design Ltd — (5.0 ★★★★★, 19 Google reviews & 5.0 ★★★★★. 58 Houzz Reviews)
Overall Score: 75 / 100
Shear Architectural Design Ltd is a Brighton & West Sussex architectural practice founded in 2017, known for client-focused residential design and planning services. It has a strong presence on Houzz with a substantial project portfolio and excellent independent reviews.
Key Metrics
- Google & Houzz Ratings: 5.0⭐ on Google (19 reviews); 5.0⭐ on Houzz with 58 reviewer ratings.
- Houzz Projects Listed: 32 projects of residential extensions, conversions and renovations.
- Typical Job Build Scale: £50,000 – £500,000 (residential projects).
- Local Expertise: Works across Shoreham-by-Sea, Brighton, Hove and Sussex, with strong planning and build delivery support.
- Client Feedback: Independent reviews consistently note professional service, planning success and strong communication.
Additional Metrics
- Best for: Residential extensions, renovations and conversions
- Strongest areas: BN43 (Shoreham), BN41 & coastal Sussex locales
- Buyer type: Homeowners prioritizing practical design and collaboration
- Planning strength: High success in planning and regulatory processes
- Average fee: 8–10 % of build cost
Shear Architectural Design’s combination of excellent reviews, project quantity and local focus underscores its strong reputation for residential design with dependable planning support.
7. Foat Architects — 5.0 ★★★★★, 25 Google Reviews)
Overall Score: 70 / 100
Foat Architects (registered as John Foat Architects Ltd, incorporated in 2013) is a Brighton-based architectural studio led by John Foat, specialising in bespoke residential design, planning and build coordination. While detailed firm history is limited in public listings, its portfolio emphasises client-led design that balances creativity, sustainability and liveability.
Key Metrics
- Google & Houzz Ratings: 5.0⭐ on Google (25 reviews); Houzz profile exists with project listings.
- Houzz Projects Listed: 5 projects (architect’s Houzz presence).
- Typical Job Build Scale: £150,000 – £1,500,000 (local practice range).
- Design Approach: Emphasis on contextual, sustainable and bespoke designs.
Additional Metrics
- Best for: Bespoke residential design in Brighton & Sussex
- Strongest areas: BN1, BN2 and surrounding suburbs
- Buyer type: Homeowners seeking tailored architectural solutions
- Planning strength: Strong design focus and contextual sensitivity
- Average fee: 8–10 % of build cost
Foat Architects is valued for its strong Google feedback and thoughtful design profile, working with clients on bespoke projects that reflect local character and client needs.
8. PMR Architecture Brighton — 5.0 ★★★★★, 20 Google Reviews & 5.0 ★★★★★, 3 Houzz Reviews)
Overall Score: 67 / 100
PMR Architecture is a RIBA Chartered Practice with offices in Brighton & Hove (and nationally), delivering architectural services from concept through to completion. The firm focuses on residential homes, extensions and new builds with a client-centred, collaborative design process.
Key Metrics
- Google & Houzz Ratings: 5.0⭐ Google (20 reviews) and 5.0⭐ on Houzz from 3 reviewers (with 4 projects listed).
- Houzz Projects Listed: 4 projects.
- Typical Job Build Scale: Broad range: £25,000 – £2,000,000 (reflecting small renovations to substantial new builds).
- Local Expertise: Works across Brighton & Hove and East Sussex, with experience in both private residential briefs and mixed projects.
- Professional Accreditations: RIBA Chartered practice, ensuring industry-recognized standards in design and service.
Additional Metrics
- Best for: Contemporary residential extensions and new builds
- Strongest areas: BN1, BN3 and wider Sussex coast region
- Buyer type: Families and renovators seeking modern design
- Planning strength: Chartered architectural process with planning guidance
- Average fee: 8–10 % of build cost
PMR Architecture’s high ratings and RIBA status reflect a well-rounded service capability for both extensions and contemporary residential briefs that balance design, planning and execution smoothly.
9. Nick Adams Architects (Lewes) — 5.0 ★★★★★, 16 Google Reviews & 5.0★★★★★, 7 Houzz Reviews)
Overall Score: 65 / 100
Nick Adams Architects is a small studio based in Lewes, East Sussex, founded in 2016 and led by Nick Adams. The practice focuses on modern vernacular, sustainable design and sensitive renovation, especially within conservation areas and national park settings.
Key Metrics
- Google & Houzz Ratings: 5.0⭐ Google (16 reviews) and 5.0⭐ on Houzz from 7 reviewers.
- Houzz Projects Listed: 8 projects showing renovation, retrofits and bespoke homes.
- Local Expertise: Strong footprint in Lewes, South Downs and East Sussex, blending traditional and contemporary design.
- Design Themes: Sustainable design, traditional materials, conservation-sensitive solutions.
Additional Metrics
- Best for: Sustainable renovations and sensitive conversions
- Strongest areas: Lewes, South Downs National Park & East Sussex villages
- Buyer type: Owners of heritage homes or eco-focused renovators
- Planning strength: Good planning experience in conservation contexts
- Average fee: 8–10 % of build cost
Nick Adams Architects’ high ratings and thoughtful design stance make it a strong choice for clients wanting a blend of sustainability and contextual sensitivity in Sussex locations.
10. Domain Architects Ltd — 5.0 ★★★★★, 15 Google Reviews & 5.0 ★★★★★, Houzz Reviews)
Overall Score: 60 / 100
Domain Architects Ltd is an established Brighton practice, led by Duncan Thomas and team, known for contextual, pragmatic design and planning experience across residential and mixed-use projects. It delivers architectural, planning, party wall, listed building and project management services.
Key Metrics
- Google & Houzz Ratings: 5.0⭐ on Google (15 reviews) and 5.0⭐ on Houzz (from 1 reviewer).
- Houzz Projects Listed: 4 projects shown on Houzz.
- Founded: Design experience spans several decades with founder’s background since the late 1980s.
- Local Expertise: Works across Brighton, Hove and Sussex, regularly in conservation areas and listed building contexts.
Additional Metrics
- Best for: Contextual residential and complex planning briefs
- Strongest areas: Brighton, Hove & Sussex conservation sectors
- Buyer type: Owners needing in-depth planning & technical support
- Planning strength: High planning success and technical expertise
- Average fee: 8–10 % of build cost
Domain Architects is respected for balanced, pragmatic design that emphasises both aesthetics and build viability, with a strong planning and management emphasis.
Comparison of Top 10 Architects in Brighton & Sussex
| Architect | Combined Reviews (Google + Houzz) | Houzz Projects Listed | Typical Job Build Cost |
| Spruce Architecture | 5.0⭐ (43 Google) + 4.9⭐ (10 Houzz) | 21 projects | £100k – £3 m |
| Stewart Nicholson Architects | 5.0⭐ (20 Google) + 5.0⭐ (17 Houzz) | 16 projects | £50k – £750k (estimate) |
| Life Size Architecture | 5.0⭐ (22 Google) + 5.0⭐ (29 Houzz) | 47 projects | £200k – £1 m |
| EN Architects | 5.0⭐ (42 Google) + 5.0⭐ (12 Houzz) | 24 projects | £25k – £1 m |
| Shape Architecture Brighton | 4.9⭐ (28 Google) + 5.0⭐ (8 Houzz) | 26 projects | £100k – £5 m |
| Shear Architectural Design Ltd | 5.0⭐ (19 Google) + 5.0⭐ (58 Houzz) | 32 projects | £50k – £500k |
| Foat Architects | 5.0⭐ (25 Google) + (Houzz presence) | 5 projects | £150k – £1.5 m |
| PMR Architecture Brighton | 5.0⭐ (20 Google) + 5.0⭐ (3 Houzz) | 4 projects | £25k – £2 m |
| Nick Adams Architects | 5.0⭐ (16 Google) + 5.0⭐ (7 Houzz) | 8 projects | (smaller residential range) |
| Domain Architects Ltd | 5.0⭐ (15 Google) + 5.0⭐ (1 Houzz) | 4 projects | (smaller-project focus) |
Sources & References
1. Google Reviews
- Individual architect Google Business profiles for ratings and number of reviews.
2. Houzz
- Houzz.com profiles for project listings, client reviews, and typical project costs.
3. Firm Websites
- Official websites for company history, founding year, service range, local expertise, and planning strengths.
4. RIBA Client Survey
- Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) 2021 survey on homeowner satisfaction with architects.
