Thinking Buildings

Thinking Buildings is a creative, design-led architects practice that combines beauty and function to deliver buildings that our clients love. Our team of talented designers work from our studios in Oxfordshire and Derbyshire to provide architecture, master-planning, interior design, and project management services throughout the UK. We take pride in our reputation for great architecture and our client-focused approach, which has been acknowledged through repeat commissions, client recommendations, and testimonials.

What We Do

Our key skills include listening, thinking, designing, problem-solving, and converting our clients' visions into beautifully designed realities. Our portfolio of work covers all types of residential projects, with a recognized expertise for high-end houses for private individuals. We have extensive experience in delivering new build, renovation, conversion, and extension projects for country houses and farm estates, small to medium-sized residential developers, and projects often involving historic environments and listed buildings.

At Thinking Buildings, we aim to avoid adopting or repeating any one particular architectural style, aesthetic, or default building solution. We believe that each design should be appropriate and specific to the physical context and the client's aspirations and requirements. We provide much more than drawings. We add value to the process through clear thinking, imaginative design solutions, and by assisting with the approvals process, managing the build, and keeping track of your budget.

We also help our clients build the project team using an experienced and highly skilled supply chain of other consultants, contractors, and specialists with a track record of working together and consistently delivering successful projects. Quality and client service are core aims of Thinking Buildings. We are a Chartered Architects Practice regulated by RIBA, which ensures that we have the highest professional standards. Our practice operates independently accredited ISO 9001 Quality Management and ISO 14001 Environmental Management systems.

Darren Aspinall, Director, Architect

Darren Aspinall is the Director and co-founder of Thinking Buildings. He has a strong passion for designing exciting and interesting buildings, spaces, and places. Darren has extensive experience in designing large scale education projects and leading our Education Team. Alongside this, he has a strong interest in low energy design, timber and oak framed construction, and is a RIBA Part 3 examiner.

Darren is a keen sportsperson and leads the business with the same dedication and commitment that he brings to his sporting pursuits.