ABOUT ME
Andy Hales
MA (Cantab) DipArch
A freelance architectural designer with a focus on ecologically conscious buildings. Andy has now started working with Grain Architecture in Surrey, and will no longer be taking on small projects in the North Wales area. Andy previously worked with Gresford Architects, who specialise in Passivhaus and low-energy Architecture and Anne Netherwood, a Conservation Architect based near Oswestry.
Andy enjoys working with clients to achieve their aims by creating healthy and enjoyable places to live and work whilst minimising environmental impact. Following the work of pioneering architects such as Walter Segal, he believes low-cost self-build houses should play a far greater role in the UK housing sector.
Andy studied his Part I in architecture as an undergraduate at the University of Cambridge, and did his Part II in Architecture and Advanced Energy Studies at the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) in Machynlleth. The course set architecture in the broader context in which we work, with a particular focus on how we can adapt to climate change and help mitigate its effects.
Between the two courses Andy worked as a Part I Architectural Assistant at Greenspace Architects in Ellesmere, primarily working on existing buildings doing restorations and conversions (commercial, domestic, and ecclesiastical), and domestic new builds.
Andy works with a combination of hand drawing and computer programs (BIM, CAD and the Adobe suite). And believes some practical building experience is an important skill all architects should have - something Andy gained whilst studying at CAT and on various volunteer projects.
Whitchurch Civic Centre - Andy worked on the technical design of this retrofit of a dilapidated brutalist building for Greenspace Architects.
Professional and student design projects I've worked on and building projects I've volunteered on.
