Our Approach

Practice Overview

Nick Cox Architects was established in 2006 and is based just north of Oxford.  The practice specialises in the repair and conservation of historic buildings and the design of new buildings in a historic context.  The conservation philosophy of the practice is grounded in developing a proper understanding of the historic fabric and carrying out thoughtful repairs and conservation.

The practice’s approach to new design is rooted in an understanding of materials and their behaviour over time – knowledge of which principally derives from work on historic buildings. Using traditional materials and methods is often not only sustainable but, when combined, contemporary materials and design can be visually exciting for users of the building.

The practice comprises eight Architects, a fully qualified Architectural Technician and a PA and Practice Manager. The practice undertakes a diverse range of projects, varying from ecclesiastical work to residential refurbishment and the conservation of stately homes and landscape buildings. In addition to striving for excellence in conservation work, the practice has experience in a variety of projects that combine new architectural design with, and adjacent to, historic buildings.

Quality Assurance

As a practice we value high quality in the design and execution of our work. This runs from early feasibility stages through to project completion. 

Sustainable Design

Designs evolve with the site and context always in mind and we encourage the use of sustainable alternatives and methods where appropriate to do so. The practice is a member of The Green Register.

A commitment to training and engagement opportunities

The practice is committed to promoting educational opportunities internally as well as to external groups and societies (including the SPAB, Oxfordshire Architectural and Historical Society, RIBA Mentoring Scheme)

What we do:

  • New Build design within a historic context

  • Specialist advice on Conservation and Repair

  • Quinnquennial Inspections

  • Fabric Condition Surveys

  • Conservation Plans

  • Feasibility and Conceptual Studies 

  • Planning and Listed Building Consent applications

  • Scheduled Monument applications 

  • Preparation of Tender documentation 

  • Contract Administration 

  • Heritage Impact Assessments

  • Archive Research 

  • Masterplanning 

  • Grant Aided Projects (HLF and Other)

  • Public Engagement (talks, tours and teaching)

  • RIBA Mentoring Scheme 

Why Us? 

Enthusiasm  •  Passion  •  Technical Expertise  •  Sensitivity  •  Personable

 

Whilst all of the above qualities run through all of the work we do striving for the highest standards in the work executed on site is paramount. This is in part achieved by careful specification and drawing but also by endeavouring to bring the best out of the craftsmen engaged on a project.

                                                                                                            

The practice is well established but still sufficiently young that it benefits from a close knit team of Architects with common enthusiasm and passion for historic buildings and contemporary design.

 

The practice includes several past SPAB Scholars who are well versed in the philosophical and technical aspects of working on historic buildings.

 

Nick Cox was selected in 2013 to be a member of the National Trust Architectural Panel (now the Historic Environment Advisory Group) – reflecting his depth of experience and knowledge in working with historic buildings. He is unusually placed as an Architect who not only works on some of the finest country houses in England but combines this with ecclesiastical work as Cathedral Architect at Wells and Winchester Cathedrals.

 

New projects in sensitive historic settings are also an area of expertise having won and RIBA Regional Award for the new Music School at Stowe and designed a new catering outlet in the sensitive setting of Calke Abbey. At Stonor Park we have designed and gained permission for a new visitor centre in the Chiltern Hills – another sensitive landscape site. At Winchester Cathedral new design interventions have been made in a most sensitive setting and we have also delivered new build projects for a number of private clients. 

 

The practice brings not just technical and aesthetic expertise but also a personable quality to its working relationships.

 

A commitment to training and engagement opportunities.

 

As a practice we have frequently given talks and lead tours for interested parties around our projects. These have ranged from lectures with slide presentation to visitors and staff, and to the friends of Winchester and Wells Cathedrals. We have also lead site visits for specialist interest groups. These have been done for the National Trust, the SPAB and other academic groups including those training in the field of Conservation.

 

The recent work at Calke Abbey on the stonework has included demonstrations of craft techniques. Similar events were arranged at Basildon and Belton Boathouse and are being implemented at Winchester Cathedral and The Vyne.

 

Within the practice we have been training up both Part I and Part II Architects who have interest in the field of conservation and new design. We regularly host the SPAB Scholars and Fellows.

Recent Clients include:

  • Blenheim Estates

  • Bedford Estates

  • The Dean and Chapter, Winchester Cathedral

  • The Dean and Chapter, Wells Cathedral

  • The National Trust – East Midlands, West Midlands, Thames and Solent Regions

  • Bicester Heritage

  • Local Authorities

  • Parish Churches

  • Stowe School

  • The Goldsmiths’ Company

  • The Ditchley Foundation

  • The Churches Conservation Trust (CCT)