Blackwood Architects was established in June 2000 by Paul Swart and Nick Wood
Nick and Paul previously worked together for a London practice before deciding to set up a new studio in Aylesbury in 2000. Their work has included a broad range of projects and benefits from having over 35 years of experience individually as qualified architects.
James Reynolds first joined the practice in 2011, qualifying as an Architect in 2012, and since Paul Swart’s retirement in 2021 has worked alongside Nick Wood as co-Director.
We have a talented and dedicated team of Project Architects and Architectural Assistants who bring their creativity, enthusiasm and diligence to each and every project.
The principles that govern the way we practice are as follows:
A high level of client care.
We listen to what is required, understand the project’s constraints and seek to find the most appropriate and effective way achieving the desired outcome.
Good design which is appropriate to its context.
We like to create designs that fit in with their surroundings, complementing the past yet looking forward. Our aim is to design buildings that will age well and not go out of fashion.
Be flexible and creative.
We do not want to dictate the type or style of work we do but enjoy the variety of projects a practice of our size deals with.
Direct responsibility.
As a small practice, we have the advantage of being directly involved with every project, across all stages from initial consultation and design through to completion. This creates consistency of service and a thorough knowledge of each project throughout the studio.
Ethical.
We believe in being honest with our clients, especially with regard to cost and time. No excuses. We have a reliable network of trusted professionals and contractors but no commercial links to them, allowing us to remain wholly impartial and help put together the best team for your project.
Technology.
We use hand sketches, CAD drawings and 3D modelling software to help visualise and communicate the scale, form and materials of our designs. We use detailed schedules and spreadsheets to help builders accurately price the works and keep track of costs throughout the construction stage.
We work with a number of established builders and can help you to obtain competitive quotations from people we know will deliver the quality of workmanship, timings and cost certainty you require.
We aim to look after our current and future staff including providing a stakeholder pension and we have high staff retention providing consistency of service throughout your project.
We are committed to a gradual increase in staffing numbers to suit the size of projects undertaken with current schemes ranging from £50,000 to £1,500,000.
We start all projects afresh and evaluate the requirements without being influenced by the past… we listen and learn from our experience rather than allowing it to dictate to us.