Architects J G P

David Joy Architect is a distinguished practice based in Cambridge, dedicated to enhancing and promoting the appreciation of a well-crafted built environment. Established in 1986 by David Joy as David Joy Architects, the firm has built an impressive portfolio spanning various fields such as residential, commercial, ecclesiastical, educational establishments, and building refurbishments, including listed buildings and historical churches.

Our objective is to create functional buildings that are not only effective answers to the design challenges posed by our clients but are also visually pleasing, thereby enhancing or contrasting with their surrounding environments. Achieving this level of excellence depends significantly on precision and meticulous attention to detail. Consequently, we place a high premium on the production of clear, precise, and detailed working drawings, indispensable for constructing buildings that uphold the high standards we strive for. In summation, our work philosophy can be encapsulated in the phrase: "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might."

Services Offered by David Joy Architect

Our expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of areas, including housing, commercial properties, ecclesiastical buildings, and educational establishments. We also specialise in building refurbishment, particularly of listed buildings and historical churches, ensuring that these structures are preserved and adapted for contemporary use while maintaining their historical value.

Our housing projects cater to various clients, from individual homeowners to large-scale residential developers. Our commercial projects range from small-scale retail units to large corporate headquarters. In the ecclesiastical sphere, we have worked on numerous churches, extending and adapting these historic buildings to meet the needs of modern congregations while preserving their original character.

Our educational projects span schools, colleges, and universities. We have experience in designing new buildings, renovating existing ones, and creating spaces that foster learning and development. Our work on listed buildings and historical churches involves sensitive restoration and adaptation, ensuring that these structures remain a valuable part of our heritage.

In addition to these areas, we also provide services in building refurbishment, interior design, and master planning. Our team of skilled professionals is committed to delivering high-quality designs that meet our clients' needs and exceed their expectations.

Case Study: St Mary's Buckden

One of our most notable projects is the extension of St Mary's Buckden, a Grade I Listed church adjacent to a Scheduled Historic Monument (Buckden Towers). The project involved providing a hall, meeting room, kitchen, accessible WC, storage, and level wheelchair access.

The site's physical and historical challenges included its long, thin shape and the presence of three large brick buttresses. Through careful structural solutions and their methodical execution, we were able to remove the buttresses, freeing up the space. The resulting design features a linear corridor along the North wall, with smaller spaces (WCs and kitchen) and larger spaces at either end, each with its own level access.

The project was controversial, with seven consultee bodies expressing opposing views. Despite this, building work is currently ongoing, a testament to the tenacity and determination of St Mary's and their architect.