John McCarthy
Architectural Designer
Architectural, interiors and technical designer with extensive UK and international experience delivering residential projects from planning and building regulations through to technical packages, detailing and on-site completion, across new-build, extension, conversion and high-end interior fit-out.
Experienced in producing coordinated, compliant and buildable design and drawing packages across a range of scales, from small-scale eco planning developments and one-off houses through to large-scale high-end residential schemes, with a consistent emphasis on spatial quality, material performance and construction clarity.
Specialist in fabric-first, low-carbon construction, with a working knowledge of natural fibre material systems, breathable build-ups, and thermal and moisture performance grounded in direct self-build delivery experience.
Services
• Architectural, technical & interior design
• Planning, conservation & building regulations
• Sustainable design and natural-fibre, fabric-first construction
• Masterplanning, feasibility and development strategy
• Plot Potential — Plot unlocking & planning strategy
Sustainable Architectural & Retrofit Design
Specialising in new builds, extensions, conversions, and deep retrofits. We deploy natural‑fibre materials with high decrement delays—like wood‑fibre and hemp—to enhance thermal comfort and reduce heating/cooling needs.
Planning Application Management
We coordinate the full planning process—from concept to decision—preparing design & access statements, sustainability statements, carbon assessments, material schedules, ecological and transport studies, and building for deconstruction plans. This ensures compliance with City, Westminster, and broader UK guidance.
Circular‑Economy Strategy & Consulting
We integrate circular design from the outset—planning for deconstructability, specifying reused components, and aligning with emerging policy like London Plan circular economy statements.
Pre‑Application Advice & Feasibility Studies
Early-stage work focuses on policy engagement, site viability, carbon benchmarking, and material strategies—ensuring applications are robust and planning risks are managed proactively.
Detailed & Technical Design Coordination
We produce coordinated construction-ready packages, liaising with engineers, sustainability specialists, and contractors. Our documentation supports Building Regs, material sourcing, performance modelling, and planning condition fulfilment.
Post‑Occupancy Review & Future‑Proofing
We offer optional post-occupancy evaluations—tracking thermal comfort, energy use, and carbon performance. Learnings feed back into national best practice and strengthen future planning applications.
