Architecta is an architecture firm specialising in eco friendly design for homeowners.
We are a small, collaborative practice run by two friends based in Cumbria and Cambridge, who met while studying at the Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT). Our shared foundation in sustainable design and building physics underpins all our work. We collaborate with a network of freelance experts, many of them also CAT graduates, allowing us to bring specialist knowledge to each project.
Our retrofit approach is guided by best practice from the AECB, Passivhaus Trust, and LETI, placing emphasis on breathable, fabric-first upgrades using low-carbon materials. These principles help manage moisture, improve comfort, and protect historic fabric, making buildings healthier, more efficient, and longer-lasting.
We can design and build your eco home, sustainable house extension, loft extension or help you with internal renovations and retrofit. We can help you with planning and building regulations or provide home energy efficiency or retrofit advice.
We aspire to build your perfect space using sustainable design to improve both your quality of life and that of the planet. We create spaces designed for the individual and built with the environment in mind.
Gina Windley, Director Architect
BA Hons, MArch, DipArch, ARB, Retrofit Assesor
As the driving force behind our Lake District Studio, based in St Bees, Cumbria Gina brings a wealth of experience and a passion for sustainable architecture to Architecta. Gina specialised in Sustainable Architecture in her Sustainable Architecture Masters studies at the Centre for Alternative Technology.
With a background working in large architectural practice, contributing to award-winning projects in housing and education, and collaborating on net-zero guidance for local authorities and housing associations with industry leaders. Her forte lies in residential projects, retrofit, and net-zero design. Gina also contracts as a Senior Retrofit Assessor for Futureproof Cumbria to offer comprehensive retrofit assessment services to evaluate the energy efficiency homes throughout Cumbria.
With a keen eye for both creativity and functionality, Gina is deeply passionate about creating projects that not only sensitive to the environment but also enrich the lives of the people who live in them.
Her commitment to the combination of architecture and sustainability earned her a spot on the shortlist for the RIBA Rising Star Award 2023.
Eloise Verdon, Director Architect
B.Sc., MArch, DipArch, ARB, Certified Passivhaus Designer
Heading up our Cambridge studio, Eloise Verdon holds a bachelor's degree from McGill University in Montreal, Canada, and a Masters in Sustainable Architecture from the Centre for Alternative Technology, Eloise embodies a commitment to living and working sustainably. Eloise is an accomplished architect with a strong background in sustainable design and brings over a decade of experience from renowned architecture practices in Cambridge.
Eloise's expertise lies in residential architecture, where she marries innovative design with energy efficiency. As a certified Passivhaus Designer Eloise ensures that each project meets rigorous standards for comfort, health, and sustainability.
Eloise oversees the design process from concept development to project completion, ensuring that each undertaking meets the highest standards of quality and functionality. Her passion for sustainable practices permeates her approach to architecture, striving to integrate eco-conscious principles into every project.
Our Studios
We work remotely across two studios strategically located in the north and south of the UK to ensure seamless coverage of the entire region. Our unique dual-studio setup allows us to work collaboratively on every project harnessing the strengths of one another, we integrate our diverse perspectives, skills, and experiences to consistently deliver the most innovative and sustainable projects for our clients.
Cumbria
Cambridgeshire
Contact us.
We’re here to assist you in creating sustainable, functional, and beautiful spaces that align with your vision and values. Whether you’re looking at a new build Passivhaus project or a bespoke retrofit to improve the energy efficiency of your home, get in touch we would be delighted to help you.
Please fill out the form or email us at hello@architecta.uk