With over 20 years of experience, how have you seen the evolution of surface materials change the way you approach new-built private homes compared to your early career? 

There have been huge advances in construction technology, particularly in energy efficiency, but at the same time, I feel there is a strong return to the texture and authenticity of natural materials. After a period of enthusiasm for highly engineered and synthetic materials such as Corian, there is now a renewed appreciation for clay, innovative brick (both in material and installation methods), and materials that are allowed to age, such as Corten steel. We seem to be craving materials that show a natural process of weathering and imperfection — something quite wabi-sabi in spirit, where beauty is found in ageing and patina. Many traditional materials are also biodegradable and recyclable, which may be another reason behind this shift.  

As a London-based studio how does the architectural landscape of the city influence your material choices for extensions and refurbishments in the capital? 

We always begin by carefully reading the existing context, which in London is often predominantly brick. Brick is such a versatile and generous backdrop for introducing more innovative materials. We might respond to the rhythm of the brickwork, its colour tone, or the subtle irregularities of the natural surface. What excites us is not simply matching the existing material, but adding another layer that enhances the urban fabric. As many extensions are located at the rear of buildings, there is often more freedom for individual expression. We are currently working on three houses on the same street: from the outside, they appear quite similar, yet internally, they feel very different, and material choice plays a major role in creating that character.  

With a philosophy centred around 'Listen design and deliver' how do you use shows like SDS to provide unique, value driven solutions for your commercial and retail projects? 

We need to stay informed about developments in the market. To respond well to our clients’ diverse styles and technical requirements, the broader our knowledge, the better we can advise them. Today, information is very accessible and many clients are already well informed about materials and technologies, so it is important that we remain proactive and up to date. Meeting manufacturers and brands at events such as Surface Design Show is invaluable, both for technical understanding and for inspiration, and often leads to new creative ways of delivering high-quality architecture.  

For your retail and commercial developments, how do you select surface materials that go beyond aesthetics to enhance the durability and sustainability of the space? 

Ideally, we would be able to physically test every material before specifying it, but this is rarely possible. Instead, we need to carefully interpret product data sheets and relevant standards — ISO, EN, BS and others — and understand the test methods behind them. It is also crucial not to hesitate to ask manufacturers and suppliers detailed questions. As designers, we carry a serious responsibility when specifying materials that our clients are investing in, so potential risks must be identified early. Considering the long-term performance and lifespan of a material is just as important as its initial cost.  

How do you approach the selection of internal and external surface materials to ensure a cohesive design language across such different project types.

A large part of our professional life is spent listening to our clients, which allows us to understand the overall experience they want their building to create. Cohesiveness does not necessarily mean that exterior and interior materials must match stylistically; rather, it should reflect the people who inhabit the space. Sometimes a calm, restrained exterior can conceal a bold and expressive interior, or vice versa, and this contrast can be very powerful when it is rooted in the users’ identity and way of living.  Equally, if the client's design identity is very pure and consistent, we need to learn that design language quickly and select within that perimeter.