About the practice

Gibson Thornley was established in 2013 to create thoughtful and enduring architecture. The practice has amassed a wealth of experience, designing contemporary buildings of different scales for a variety of clients. Gibson Thornley is a design-led studio. Both directors are intimately involved in the design and realisation of every project. We apply a critical design approach to each scheme, which responds to the clients’ unique circumstances. The context of a project (economic, social, cultural) is used to stimulate and generate the architectural proposal. Each project has a set of simple and clear ideas that nourish the design as it develops. We enjoy drawing and making; testing and refining ideas through a range of diagrams, sketches and models. A strong visual sensibility enables ideas to be critically assessed within the studio, and explored with the client and wider design team. The success of every project is based on collaborative working. We forge close relationships with the client, design team and wider stakeholders. The making and technical parameters of each project is central to our creative process. Our critical approach to design is applied at each stage and ensures that a project’s detailed development embodies our initial intent. Gibson Thornley is an RIBA Chartered Practice and member of the Architecture Foundation.