A sandstone wall reimagined...
Our latest Planning Permission; the existing sandstone wall was too lovely to ignore so we used it to form the spine of a series of new internal and external spaces which create a new office, a garden room, storage and outdoor kitchen...
The importance of being RIBA...
What do a RIBA Chartered Practice do differently?
The Royal British Institute of British Architects is the professional body for architects in the UK and the Isle of Man, and RIBA Chartered status is the highest level of professional recognition an architect can hold. But for most homeowners, the practical question is simpler: does it make any difference to me and my project? Of course the answer is yes.
To become a RIBA Chartered Architect, a person must complete a minimum of seven years of education and professional training, pass a rigorous professional practice examination, and demonstrate competence across design, technology, law, management, and professional ethics. They must then maintain that competence through continuing professional development every year.
This matters because architecture is a complex profession. A poorly designed extension can create structural problems, planning disputes, drainage failures, thermal bridging, and a host of other issues that are expensive and disruptive to fix. A RIBA Chartered Architect has the technical knowledge to avoid these problems from the outset — not because they are following a checklist, but because they understand why things go wrong and how to prevent it.
One of the most practical benefits of working with a RIBA Chartered Practice is access to a structured, proven process. The RIBA Plan of Work is the industry-standard framework for managing architecture projects from inception to completion. It divides the process into defined stages — strategic definition, preparation and briefing, concept design, developed design, technical design, construction, and handover — each with clear deliverables and decision points.
This structure protects clients. It means that decisions are made in the right order, that information is produced before it is needed rather than after, and that there are clear points at which you as a client review and approve the work before it progresses. It also means that when something unexpected happens — and on any building project, something always does — there is a clear framework for managing it.
You'll see our RIBA signboards all over Shropshire, with form:form Architects you're in great company...
model behaviour...
Sketch models are an essential tool in the early architectural design process because they allow us to quickly explore and test ideas in three dimensions. Unlike detailed presentation models, sketch models are fast to produce, encouraging experimentation with form, scale, proportion, and spatial relationships. They help us identify design opportunities and challenges early on, communicate concepts effectively with clients and collaborators, and support an iterative design approach where ideas can be refined through continuous evaluation and modification. View some of our latest sketch models below...
The iconic Boat House which is currently under construction on the Severn in Shrewsbury...
Our extraordinary Kingsland conservation area new build...currently in planning... watch this space...
Modelling the existing structure gives us a better perspective during the design process......
form:form at the drawing board, fostering creativity with the team...
Teamwork and pen sketches are fundamental to the success of the form:form studio. Effective teamwork brings together diverse skills, ideas, and perspectives, enabling us to collaborate in developing innovative and practical solutions. Open communication and shared problem-solving ensure that projects progress efficiently while maintaining high design quality. At the same time, pen sketches remain an invaluable tool in our design process. They allow us to quickly explore concepts, communicate ideas, and refine designs. Hand sketches capture creativity, spontaneity, and personal expression, making them an essential medium for brainstorming and discussion within the studio. Together, strong teamwork and the art of pen sketching foster creativity, improve collaboration, and contribute to the successful realisation of our projects.
Our most recent planning approval in the Kingsland conservation area... This sensitive first floor extension has provided an exciting home gym space...
Join form:form for work experience...
form:form recently welcomed three students for work experience.
Oliver, Niamh and Amelia had amazing ideas, produced some fantastic working drawings and made models of their work. The students visited the site of our Boat House project in Shrewsbury and designed a building for the site. It was a fantastic week for form:form and we wish them every success with their studies and the future. Contact us if you'd like to join us for a week next summer.
Grand Designs Live October 2026...
Stand J95 Birmingham NEC.
Link to your pair of complimentary tickets coming soon...
Grand Designs Live features the latest in ideas, innovation and home project guidance. Visitors can find an array of exhibitors, experts and live talks.
The Home & Garden Theatre is dedicated to offering inspiration, practical advice and expert insight for visitors looking to enhance their living spaces inside and out. As part of the themed stage layout, it brings together a curated programme of talks that make it easy for guests to find sessions aligned with their interests. The format also improves audience flow and helps visitors access the ideas and guidance they need to develop and elevate their home or garden plans.
The Build & Renovation Theatre is dedicated to delivering practical guidance and expert insight for visitors undertaking home improvement or major upgrade projects. As part of the themed stage layout, it brings together the most relevant content in one place, making it easy for guests to find sessions that support their plans. The format also improves audience flow and helps visitors access the information they need to move their project forward with confidence.
The Sustainability Theatre is dedicated to sharing practical advice, expert insight and forward-thinking ideas for visitors looking to make their homes more energy-efficient. As part of the themed stage layout, it brings together sessions focused on greener materials, low-impact solutions and sustainable ways of living. The format helps guests easily find the talks most relevant to their goals and gives them the knowledge and inspiration to make more sustainable choices in their own projects.
The form:form team will be at stand J95 (next to The Architecture Advice Centre) from Friday October 2nd at 10am until Sunday October 4th at 4pm for expert advice and ideas to assist you with your project.
Some recent planning approvals...
A bold new addition to Porthill Gardens, this tired 1980's mock-Tudor home has been given a brand new coat! Both green in colour and approach we have re-planned and re-clad for efficiency and aesthetic.
Adaptive reuse of a very pretty coach house in a conservation area in Shropshire, creating additional residential living space.
Join form:form at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show at The Harrogate Convention Centre...
Unleash your imagination and create your dream home with form:form Architects and the Homebuilding & Renovation show at the Harrogate Convention Centre from Friday 30th October until Sunday 1st of November 2026.
The Homebuilding & Renovating Show, is the place to go for anyone who has a home project - big or small. For over 30 years, they've been bringing together the very best experts, advice, and products to help you move forward with confidence. From free 1:1 consultations to inspiring talks and 100s of leading brands under one roof — it’s everything you need to turn your vision into reality. What are you waiting for?
Packed with practical sessions led by industry experts, you’ll get insider knowledge on everything from finding land and managing budgets to choosing materials and navigating planning. Whether you're at the very beginning or deep into your project, you’ll leave feeling more informed and inspired.
Get one-to-one guidance from the UK’s leading homebuilding and renovating experts. Whether you need help with planning permission, budgeting, design decisions or overcoming a project challenge, our impartial specialists are here to offer tailored advice to move your plans forward with confidence.
When it comes to sourcing the right products and services, you’ll have access to hundreds of leading brands and suppliers, all under one roof. Explore everything from heating solutions and energy efficiency to doors, windows, kitchens, and bathrooms, Find what works for your home and budget.
Find us on Friday and Saturday from 10am until 5pm and on Sunday from 10am 'til 4:30pm.
link for complimentary tickets and other info coming soon...
Behind the scenes with form:form Architects on our works in progress...
form:form turns 11!
This year, following the completion of our first eleven years in business seems to be the perfect time to celebrate our achievements and also look forward to the next eleven.
Over the past two years we have evolved from being a sole practitioner to a team of five through the need to service an increased appetite for our design and service quality. We have moved into our new studio at the amazing Flaxmill Maltings in Shrewsbury, a Grade I Listed conversion of the world’s first iron framed building which forms a fabulous creative environment for further expansion.
We have seen an increase in turnover, we are supporting three members of the team through university courses and apprenticeships, We were finalist for 'House of The Year' in the British Homes Awards 2024 for our new build home in South Shropshire’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and we also won a 2021 RIBA award for one of the best buildings in the country for an small extension in Market Drayton, Shropshire.
2025 has seen form:form become finalists for Practice of the year at the National Property Awards and has seen Steve join the Design Midlands review panel, join Kevin McCloud on stage as an expert at Grand Designs Live and become a judge at the British Homes Awards.
Thank you to all our clients past and present.
form:form reach the finals of the National Property Awards: Practice of the year 2025!
form:form Architects were nominated, and have made the finals of the National Property Awards Practice of the year!
After months of anticipation and an overwhelming number of exceptional entries, the finalists for the National Property Awards 2025 have officially been announced. Set to take place on Saturday 27th September 2025 at the prestigious Eastside Rooms in Birmingham, this year’s awards promise to be the most inspiring and inclusive yet.
The 2025 edition of the National Property Awards has seen a phenomenal response from across the country, with hundreds of nominations submitted across multiple categories. The volume and quality of the nominations have been truly humbling – in several categories, the level of talent and innovation made the judges’ task far from easy.
This year’s theme and hashtag – #PoweringPropertyProgress– perfectly encapsulates what the National Property Awards stand for. In a time of change, innovation, and shifting dynamics across the property landscape, these awards spotlight the individuals and organisations driving positive change, setting new benchmarks, and paving the way for othersto thrive. Whether it’s through sustainable development, community-focused regeneration, technological advancement, or championing inclusivity in the industry, our finalists are powering progressand inspiring the next generation of property professionals.
Steve and Tom will attend the awards show in Birmingham on 27th September 2025... Pictures to follow. A huge thank you goes out to everyone who has voted for us online! We appreciate it so much.
Join us at form:form for work experience!
July saw us joined by two students, Beau and Nathaniel for work experience. Nathaniel and Beau were given a brief to produce a 9 Tsubo home for a sculptor within the Dye House at our base at The Flaxmill Maltings.
The Tsubo is a fundamental area of measurement in Japanese real estate used to measure size of land and floor space. A Tsubo is defined by the area of two rectangular Tatami mats traditionally used as flooring in Japanese homes. A Tatami mat measures 0.9 x 1.8m therefore a Tsubo is 1.8m x 1.8m square, or approximately 3.3m².
Japanese architecture excels at maximising small spaces, leading to innovative and beautiful tiny home designs. These ‘micro-homes’ often called ‘Jutaku’ or ‘kyosho jutaku’ are common due to land scarcity and high population density in Japan. Designers use minimalist, multifunctional spaces and clever structural engineering to create surprisingly spacious living areas with tiny footprints.
The 9 Tsubo House refers to a minimalist housing concept in Japan, specifically designed with a footprint of 9 Tsubo, which is equivalent to approximately 30m² (5.5m x 5.5m). It was originally designed and built in 1952 by architect Masuzawa Makoto, and later revived in the early 2000’s by Boo-Hoo-Woo, who commissioned contemporary designers to develop variations on the concept. The 9 Tsubo size was chosen because it was the limit for loans offered by the Housing Corporation of Japan at the time.
The Students worked hard over the course of five days which included: visiting the Dye House, researching Tsubo homes, designing and sketching out their ideas, creating physical models of their design, visiting a live construction site of one of form:form's current projects, using digital techniques to produce a presentation board showing the timeline of their design and finally presenting their finished model to the team at form:form.
Shown below is Nathaniel and Beau's excellent work: House for a sculptor. It was fantastic to have the students working alongside us in the studio at form:form.
House for a sculptor.
Steve joins the Design Midlands review panel!
We are delighted to share that our director Steve Hayward will be joining the Design Midlands review panel. Design Network is the national body for design excellence across England. Design Network supports local authorities, public bodies, developers and politicians to deliver great places: for people, prosperity and the planet. Place based and not for profit, the Design Network is also the national delivery body for design review. Design:Midlands is a charity that believes in the importance of creating sustainable places where people want to live, work and socialise. Design:Midlands is an independent, impartial resource. Steve is looking forward to collaborating with fellow panelists to providing independent design support for communities, local authorities, decision makers, house builders, businesses and design professionals.
Steve has been chosen as a judge for the British Home Awards!
Our founding director Steve Hayward has been chosen as a judge for The British Homes Awards 2025. form:form's Lower House was a finalist in 2024 at The British Homes Awards.
find the finalists for 2025 at the link below. Who do you think will win?
Check out Lower House below.
Launch: Public Notice Issue 2
Steve, our founding director was invited to the launch of Public Notice magazine, Issue Two. Steve made the trip to Norwich to meet with the journalists and the others featured in the magazine. Public Notice magazine shares stories about how every day places are made, from the role that public sector officers play in conceiving policy to the range of stakeholders that deliver these projects on the ground, going behind the scenes, uncovering all aspects of the process. This includes: the planning process, procurement approaches, workforce organisation and project management. Through uncovering and storytelling Public Notice aim to build empathy between all sectors involved and improve ways of working, especially in difficult conditions.
Issue Two of Public Notice features a fantastic article about the Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings where form:form are based. It's written by Efua Boakye and includes lots of great pictures taken by by Dion Barrett. The article talks about the history of the Flaxmill Maltings and it's locality, the collaboration between Historic England and Shrewsbury council to refurbish this beautifiul Grade II listed building and the future of the Flaxmill Maltings.
Steve was interviewed by Efua and photographed by Dion. The interview with Steve covers form:form's experience of office life at the Shrewsbury Flaxmill Maltings. To read the interview and view the pictures please click on the link below.
form:form CPD visit to Lime Green
Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is a vital part of our business at form:form. All practicing RIBA Chartered Members are required to undertake and record CPD each year as evidence that they are taking organised steps to maintain their competence through continuous learning. On Friday 28th February 2025 form:form visited
Lime Green for an all day CPD exercise at their HQ and tour of their factory in Much Wenlock.
Lime Green are producers of custom; lime plaster, lime render, lime mortar, stone repair and natural insulations. Lime Green products are perfect for use in conservation projects and their natural insulation and all their lime-based products have outstanding breathability, water doesn't get trapped within walls but can escape quickly and easily, so bricks and stone stay sound, helping create healthier rooms and a better living environment.
Lime Green has a whole range of insulation boards and compatible plasters, renders and ancillaries which can be used on both new build and building renovation projects either as an integral part of a timber frame construction or retro-fitted to older masonry properties.
Warmshell Woodfibre boards are the intelligent insulation option which can buffer and store heat and moisture, keeping buildings warm and dry in winter and stopping overheating in summer. Warmshell wood fibre won’t trap moisture because it is highly breathable and exploits woods incredible ability to wick and harmlessly move water. Made with waste sawdust from sustainable FSC accredited forests, they are the sustainable, low carbon option for internal and external wall insulation. And unlike some insulations, their boards are totally free from formaldehyde and other biocides.
work experience at form:form
form:form were joined by two budding architects last week for work experience. Ava and Olivia took part in site visits, and a design challenge that saw them design and build a model interpreting one of our current projects. It was wonderful to have them in the office working alongside us and we wish them every success for the future. If you're interested in joining us for work experience please drop us an email.
send work experience enquiries to:
info@formformarchitects.com
form form have recently been part of a design challenge to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the BAA, bringing to life some of the visionary details sketched by BAA members nearly a century ago. We were briefed with crafting a 3D representation of these historic details using a medium of our own choice. Our team has designed a pattern for fabric based on the design of the doorway of No.6 Bennett's Hill. We have had the fabric produced and made into a dress to be exhibited by the BAA. Our whole team really enjoyed the process, and the dress looks amazing.
Birmingham Architectural Association 150th anniversary celebration
form:form Architects are shortlisted for British Homes Awards 2024
We are very excited to be shortlisted for the British Homes Awards Awards 2024, Best New Home for Lower House in Ludlow. The winner will be announced on September 12th 2024.
https://www.britishhomesawards.co.uk/finalists/lower-house-0lne
