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Essex Architecture & Engineering Practice

EPA Design is a leading Essex architecture practice, specialising in both architectural design and structural engineering for residential and commercial projects. Our expertise lies in the careful restoration and enhancement of historic buildings, combined with a commitment to high-end, bespoke design. We pride ourselves on meticulous attention to detail, a profound understanding of architectural heritage, and a genuine passion for innovative design.

With over 45 years of experience, we have grown into a multidisciplinary practice providing comprehensive architectural, structural, and civil engineering services in-house.

Located in the heart of the Essex countryside, our team benefits from a beautiful working environment and a direct connection to the surrounding landscapes. This peaceful and aesthetic environment is essential for our team's health and well-being, allowing creativity to thrive within our practice.

Every customer has a unique brief, and each site or building has a distinct character, therefore we approach each project on an individual basis to ensure that these qualities are carefully considered in our designs. We value the dedication and significant financial investment our clients commit to their projects and that's why we collaborate closely with them, ensuring they are actively involved every step of the way. Whilst a project manager is designated for each project, the design concepts are developed collaboratively by the entire team through a process of evaluation, understanding, critique, and refinement.


Director


Director


Office Manager


Associate Director


Associate


Architect


Architect


Architectural Technologist


Architectural Assistant Part 1


Architectural Assistant Part 1


Architectural Assistant


Project Coordinator


Senior Structural Engineer


Civil Engineer


Graduate Structural Engineer


Meet and Greet


Meet and Greet


Meet and Greet


Meet and Greet


Meet and Greet

David

David – Director (MCIAT BSc Hons)

David leads the architectural side of the studio where his passion for high quality buildings is seen through our work and the day to day running of the practice. Through his career David has worked on a diverse range of projects which has given him experience and understanding of multiple forms and styles which is shared within the team. Having worked on many historic and listed buildings, he has the experience and understanding to enable designs to successfully be delivered on our more challenging projects.

David has a passion for high quality design and buildings where he shares this in his work and with his colleagues. His father is a carpenter, so he has grown up in construction however he wanted to pursue design so took the Architectural career path. David’s passion for high quality buildings and love for clean lines and sharp edges has given him an avid passion for minimalist contemporary architecture which can often be seen in his work.

After joining EPA in 2005 David continued his studies in Architecture and became a chartered member of the Institute of Architectural Technologists (MCIAT) in 2017. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and children, anything golf related, watching football, cycling and exploring the world of Architecture in greater depths.

Tom

Tom – Director (BSc Hons Eng)

Tom leads the Engineering side of the practice and is dedicated to providing both an economical and efficient design to all of our Client’s projects. The practices’ diversity in the scale and nature of previous and ongoing projects has enabled Tom to gain a vast experience across a wide range of sectors and materials, to which he utilizes to provide a sustainable and economic product to both our new and regular Clientele.

Tom has a keen dedication to continue to further his career experience in all aspects of Structural & Civil Engineering, and along with his team, strives to utilize modern sustainable construction techniques.

Tom has worked with EPA since 2007, after leaving school, and continued to develop his construction knowledge via additional studies at both college and university, where he attained a Bachelor of Honours Degree in Civil Engineering in 2015.

In his free time Tom enjoys spending time with his wife, as well as a variety of sporting activities, including both golf and football.

Di v3

Di – Office Manager

Di joined in 1999 when EPA was based in Stebbing and consisted of just 2 Structural Engineers!  In 2007 Di helped organise the office move to West End Barn where her role as Office Manager includes managing daily administration tasks, providing stability to the office in a hectic and busy environment as well as heading the HR department. 

EPA has grown considerably since 1999 and Di is very proud to have been part of this, she has formed a great rapport with many customers over the years and enjoys working in a busy and very friendly office. In 2019 she helped arrange as well as complete the 3 peaks challenge along with other EPA colleagues and organised fundraising for which they raised almost £8k for MIND and Helen Rollason charities, a fantastic experience and achievement. 

In her spare time, she loves spending time with her family, grandchildren, taking long dog walks with Gracie who is part of the EPA meet and greet team, weekends in the family static caravan in West Mersea & dining out.


scott

Scott – Associate Director (BSc Hons)

Scott’s passion for architecture grew from an early love of design, drawing and making, shaped by studies in Engineering, Design Technology and Business, and inspired by his family’s work in the building trade. 

He joined EPA in 2011, later completing a First-Class Honours Degree in Architectural Technology. His final project, a multi-sports facility extending a local heritage asset, earned him national recognition as one of the UK’s Top 6 Graduating Students, as well as the CABE Best Final Year Student and CIAT East Anglia Student Award. 

Known for his creative yet practical approach, Scott combines innovative ideas with a meticulous eye for detail across planning, design and construction. Now supporting David in the management of architectural projects and practice operations, he continues to shape EPA’s growth. Outside work, he enjoys mountain biking, fishing (with mixed success), socialising and most things outdoors.

Brad

Brad – Associate (BA (Hons) Arch. BSc (Hons) Arch Tech)

Brad Joined EPA in early 2021 to continue progressing his career. He specialises in a wide range of projects including, One-off Residential houses, Residential remodelling and extensions, Visitor centres, School expansion Projects. With a wide knowledge of design, technical and construction aspects of building he has proven himself very versatile to achieve practical solutions.

With two degrees, one in Architecture BA (Hons) and one in Architectural Technology BSs (Hons), Brad studied for 6 years while working within the industry and is always keen to learn from others in the construction industry to widen his knowledge. In 2020 Brad made it to the National finals in the CIAT student Project award in Architectural Technology, which to this date he is very proud of. This project consisted of a multi-disciplinary office for design and construction professionals which was constructed to Passive House standards.

In his spare time Brad relaxes by going to the Gym, seeing his friends and family and is a big football fan, and enjoys watching football come home… one day.

Jon

Jon – Architect (RIBA )

Jon has more than 30 years’ experience in the construction industry over a wide range of sectors from education and healthcare to small scale residential. He worked for multi-disciplinary design consultancy Atkins for many years as a project manager before qualifying as an Architect in 2006 and pursuing his longstanding passion for design, winning an Essex County Council ‘Best Building’ Award for Matching Green School in 2009. In addition to his core skills of architectural design, contract administration and project management, Jon has significant experience in design and build, off-site prefabrication, risk analysis and mitigation, and the implementation and maintenance of quality, safety and environmental management systems. He takes a proactive stance on environmental issues and is always keen to explore new and innovative ways of addressing the current climate emergency, at every level.

In his spare time, Jon is an enthusiastic amateur gardener and occasional chef who enjoys foraging for ingredients in the fields and hedgerows of his native Suffolk. He is also passionate about live music and is a regular attendee at the annual Latitude Festival.

Harry W2

Harry – Architect (BSc (Hons) in Architecture. M(Arch) PgDip Professional Practice. ARB)

Harry joined EPA in 2025, having previously worked for a local practice specialising in bespoke residential developments and works to listed buildings. He has gained valuable experience across a range of residential and commercial projects, developing both his design flair, and his ability to manage complex planning applications.

 

Having undertaken his BSc (Hons) in Architecture, MArch in Architecture, and a PGDip in Professional Practice at Cardiff University, Harry is a qualified Architect and a member of the Architects Registration Board. His design thesis explored the relationship between construction and sustainability, investigating how careful design can reduce a buildings carbon intensity through longevity, flexibility, and passive systems. Drawing on this knowledge and his professional experience, Harry strives to deliver an engaging, collaborative, and inspiring design process, attentively guiding each client through their project from conception to completion.

 

Outside of work, Harry can often be found on or in the water - swimming or paddleboarding, whenever the weather allows, or travelling and exploring with friends, finding inspiration for his next projects.

LT

Tom Hogg – Architectural Technologist (BSc(Hons) ACIAT)

Tom is an undergraduate architectural assistant whose journey with EPA started in 2019 after being offered the chance of two weeks work experience after he finished his A-Level Studies, where he could explore his desires of becoming an architect. 

Shortly after the work experience, Tom worked full-time for a year at EPA before starting his apprenticeship degree in 2020, studying Architecture BA (Hons) course part-time at Anglia Ruskin University, following in the footsteps of fellow colleagues. Tom is currently pursuing a range of projects at his university, widening his knowledge, and gaining experience in multiple skills, allowing him to better himself and improve his work to the highest quality at EPA. 

In Tom's spare time you will find him participating in multiple physical activities such as, football, gym and riding his trials/motocross bike around multiple areas in the UK.

Alex

Alex – Architectural Assistant Part 1 (BA(Hons) Architecture)

Alex is an undergraduate architectural assistant and aspiring architect who joined the team in 2019 after the completion of her A Level studies. Work experience with the company during her time in sixth form gave her an insight of the architect’s role within the industry, which led to her desire to pursue this further.

She is currently enjoying her studies on the Architecture BA (Hons) course at London South Bank University where her ambition and motivation to expand her architectural knowledge is engaged. Accompanied by her cooperation in current projects, ranging from a variety of residential to commercial developments, Alex continues to gain experience and strives to produce high quality work. She hopes to fulfil her passion for architecture by becoming fully qualified and a fundamental member of the team.

In her spare time, you can find Alex channeling her creativity through the art of painting and photography. She also enjoys day trips visiting art galleries and museums.

Izzy

Izzy – Architectural Assistant Part 1 (BSc(Hons) Architecture)

Izzy is an Architectural assistant who joined EPA in 2025 after completing summer work experience with the practice during her time at the University of Reading.

Motivated by her strong passion for design and detail she achieved a First-Class Honours degree in Architecture. She aspires to continue her studies with the dream of becoming an Architect and is looking forward to building on her knowledge within the EPA team and working towards her professional qualifications.

In her spare time she enjoys baking, travelling to explore new places and architecture around the world and playing tennis.

Harry2

Harry – Architectural Assistant

Harry is an Architectural Assistant at EPA Design, currently pursuing an apprenticeship degree in Architecture at London Southbank University part- time. With a strong foundation in design principles and a growing interest in sustainable and people-focused architecture, he brings fresh perspectives and creativity to the team.

Harry started off by carrying out work experience in 2024 while he was at college, and then progressed into an apprentice in 2025. Harry now supports a range of projects, contributing to surveys, concept development, visual presentations and is starting to learn the foundations of technical drawings.

Outside of work and study, he enjoys taking part in multiple activities such as gym, football, and golf and watching the West Ham games.

Sacha v2

Sacha – Project Coordinator

Sacha joined the team in the summer of 2023, working alongside Di as our Office Administrator, supporting accounts, completing admin duties, and helping to keep the office organised. Since then, she has transitioned into the role of Project Coordinator. In this position, Sacha continues to assist with office administration while also supporting the Directors in managing the team and their projects, ensuring the office runs smoothly and efficiently.

Outside of work, Sacha enjoys keeping active at the gym, spending time with her dog, Bailey, and heading out on trips with friends.

Nathan

Nathan – Senior Structural Engineer (BEng (Hons) GMICE)

Nathan joined EPA in 2022 as part of the structural engineering team. Coming from a background of predominantly working on mid to high-rise concrete frame structures, he joined EPA to apply his knowledge into smaller scale projects and gain experience in bespoke residential projects that require innovative, low-cost solutions. Nathan uses his previous experience of working for a multi-disciplinary company to his advantage along with his background in bespoke steel design.

Nathan achieved double distinction ONC in Civil Engineering at college and gained a first honours degree in Civil Engineering at university in 2012. He is working hard towards his chartership with the ICE and IStructE and hopes to attain IEng status in the near future.

In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two sons, travelling, boxing and martial arts.

Lewis new

Lewis – Civil Engineer (BSc Hons )

Lewis has substantial experience in the traffic, transportation and highways industry. Lewis has an excellent knowledge of computer aided design and has experience of using AutoCAD, AutoTrack, Keylines, Civils3D, Site3D, PDS & Micro Drainage among other industry acknowledged design packages and is always eager to expand his skills and knowledge in the use of these. Lewis also has a good understanding of the relevant industry design standards and regulations needed to complete complex design solutions and he always aims to provide simple and elegant solutions for our clients. Lewis completed his BSc in Civil Engineering in 2015 and has worked on a variety of projects in the UK and also in the US, these include London 2012 Olympics, Crossrail, HS2, Harvard University Science & Engineering Complex, Logan International Airport and Sizewell ‘C’ Reactor Enabling Works.

In his spare time Lewis is a keen DIYer and has been renovating his house tackling all the trades involved with this.

Will

Will – Graduate Structural Engineer (BEng (Hons))

Will is an undergraduate structural engineer. He first came to EPA in 2014 for work experience, then continued to come back during the school holidays until 2016 when he joined full time, whilst studying the Construction & The Built Environment at Chelmsford College. He then moved onto Anglia Ruskin University, where he is currently studying civil engineering, with the view to becoming a qualified structural engineer.

At EPA Will works closely with the other engineers on a range of projects, varying from wall removals to large residential developments, gaining valuable experience every day.

In his spare time Will enjoys playing video games, watching football, listening to music and attempting to play the guitar!

Bailey

Bailey – Meet and Greet

Bailey- Bai Bai

Bailey, our Sprocker Spaniel, is a calm presence in the office, but he's a real food lover. He's been recognized at local County shows for his ever-wagging tail and unique Mickey Mouse-like markings on his back. If you visit our office, he'd happily demonstrate his favorite trick, "sit pretty," in exchange for a treat.

Bonnie

Bonnie – Meet and Greet

Bonnie- Bon Bon

Meet Bonnie, our Scottie dog. She's our little guard with a big personality. Give her apples, and you've won her heart. At mealtime, her tap dance shows how excited she is. Bonnie also has a soft spot for our Engineer, Lewis, following him around with affection.

Basil

Basil – Meet and Greet

Basil- Big Bas

Meet Basil, our lovable Golden Retriever, the baby of our pack! He's a super affectionate pup, always ready for cuddles. Basil enjoys the company of people, loves days at the beach, and relishes long walks through the countryside.

Cooper

Cooper – Meet and Greet

Cooper- Coops 

Meet Cooper, our friendly working Golden Retriever! You'll often find him chilling in his owner's office, but he's easily convinced to join the action with a bit of food or a ball. 

Coops comes to life during play fights with Basil, our other lively pup. Things can get a bit wild with these two big dogs, creating a lot of joyful noise around the office!

Gracie

Gracie – Meet and Greet

Gracie- Gracie pops, Lady G

Gracie is a Golden Retriever and our oldest doggie. She is a big mommy’s girl so you will always find her wherever her owner is. Gracie perfectly positions herself in the office doorway, knowing that she will get some love every time someone walks in or out of the office. The skilled thief in the office is definitely Gracie. She knows who is likely to have food in their bin or leave their lunch in a bag on the floor (Brad!) and she will wait until they have left the office and sneak over to their desk for a cheeky afternoon snack. Gracie loves swimming so never says no to a weekend trip to her favorite place, Mersea.

Why work with us

We understand that every customer has unique tastes and preferences. By listening closely to their needs and ideas, we ensure that every aspect of the final design is thoughtfully considered. We also conduct a thorough evaluation of each site or building to ensure our designs harmonise with their location and setting.

Although we have a skilled in-house team, we frequently work with specialist consultants to offer expertise in their specific fields. Over the years, we have developed strong relationships with various consultants and specialists. This enables us to efficiently coordinate a team to bring our customers' dreams to life.

Throughout the design process, we collaborate closely with our in-house team to ensure our designs and drawings are both practical and achievable. Our multidisciplinary team, including architectural technologists and structural and civil engineers, allows us to consider and understand various aspects of construction from the outset.

We are grateful to our customers for the opportunity to transform their lives through our innovative designs that form their dream homes. Our team is both passionate and dedicated to providing the best possible service and outcome to our customers, which is demonstrated through the exceptional homes and spaces that we have built for our customers.

As a versatile architectural and engineering practice, we specialise in both residential and commercial projects. Our experience allows us to accommodate a wide variety of project types, ensuring we meet our client's unique needs and visions. Some of the common projects we work on include:

New Build Houses

If you are planning to build a new home, our team is here to support you at every stage of the process. From the initial feasibility assessment, where we evaluate your site's potential, opportunities, and constraints, to the detailed design, planning applications, and management of the construction phase. We are committed to assisting you from the very start of your project through to the moment you step into your completed home.

Replacement Dwellings

Replacing an existing property with a new home is an opportunity to create something entirely bespoke. We assist in assessing the site’s potential and considering planning restrictions to crafting a design tailored to your needs. Our expertise ensures the process, from securing permissions to overseeing construction, is handled with precision.

Barn Conversions

Barn conversions are a chance to create a truly unique home while retaining the character of the original structure. We specialise in assessing the structural potential of barns, designing spaces that meet modern living requirements, and addressing planning and building regulations specific to rural and agricultural buildings.

Heritage and Listed Buildings

Working with heritage and listed buildings involves balancing respect for historical significance with functional design. Our experience includes navigating listed building consents, developing sensitive restoration plans, and ensuring compliance with regulations, all while maintaining the architectural integrity of these unique properties.

Home Renovations

Renovating a home allows you to reimagine your living spaces to better suit your lifestyle. We offer support tailored to your renovation goals, whether it’s updating key areas, reconfiguring layouts, or enhancing energy efficiency. From initial designs to project delivery, we help bring new life to existing spaces.

Residential Extensions

Extending your home offers a practical way to add space and value. We work closely with you to explore possibilities, from seamless integration with the existing property to creating striking contemporary additions. Our support includes securing planning permissions and managing construction to achieve a high-quality outcome.

Development Opportunities

Maximising the potential of a site for development requires careful analysis and strategic planning. We provide expert guidance on feasibility studies, design concepts, and the navigation of complex planning processes. Whether for residential or mixed-use developments, our approach ensures each opportunity is realised to its full potential.

No, our architecture & engineering studio, while based in Essex, proudly serves clients across the UK, including Essex, Suffolk, Kent, and London. Whether you need assistance with planning applications, building regulations, or architectural design, our experienced team is ready to help wherever you are located.

Embarking on a building project can be overwhelming, especially when navigating the statutory requirements for planning permission and building regulations. With over 45 years of experience, our Essex-based team of architects, designers, technologists, and engineers brings extensive expertise in understanding and managing these complex processes. We simplify the journey, ensuring compliance with all necessary regulations, and offer tailored guidance for even the most sensitive projects, such as listed buildings and sites within conservation areas. Our goal is to help you focus on realising your vision while we handle the technical and regulatory details.

Yes, we offer comprehensive architectural services tailored to projects of all sizes. Our approach, rooted in the RIBA Plan of Work, ensures that every stage of your project is meticulously planned and executed. From conducting initial feasibility studies and refining your brief through concept and developed designs, to managing building contracts and overseeing construction, our experienced team is with you every step of the way. We pride ourselves on delivering a seamless and stress-free experience, with a commitment to quality and precision that ensures exceptional results for both residential and commercial clients.

Every project and client is unique, and our process reflects that. While we follow a proven and structured approach, we tailor our services to suit the size, complexity, and specific requirements of your project right from the start. This ensures that your goals and needs are fully understood and integrated into every stage of the journey. For a detailed overview of what to expect when starting a project with us, we invite you to explore the dedicated page on our website that outlines our process in greater depth.

Absolutely. We approach the design of a building or space with the understanding that the interiors are an intrinsic part of the architecture itself. From the outset, we carefully consider interior layouts, materials, and functionality to ensure they complement and enhance the overall design. When needed, we collaborate with specialist teams to refine specific aspects of the interior, creating spaces that are both visually compelling and highly practical, while delivering excellent value for your project.