The practice is run by Tom Attewell, an architect based in Stockport, working across South Manchester and North Cheshire. He is the main point of contact for every project.
"I love older properties and modern design, helping clients transform their period homes by retaining and enhancing what’s there while balancing character with contemporary design.
Most of the work starts with constraint: awkward layouts, underused rooms, houses that don’t quite flow. The design process is about resolving those issues simply and carefully; opening up space, improving light, strengthening the connection to the garden, and making the house feel more coherent
without stripping away its character.
Alongside this, I am a certified Passivhaus designer with a strong interest in low-energy construction and building performance. Even when most projects are not taken to Passivhaus standard, those principles sit behind all of my work; quietly shaping decisions around comfort, construction, and long-term quality.
The aim is always the same: homes that feel calmer, work better,
and are more enjoyable to live in day to day."
Please get in touch for a free consultation.
Approach
I don’t dictate design outcomes. Instead, I work closely with clients to develop ideas that feel considered, practical and genuinely right for how they live in their homes. Translating that into simple, well-resolved, appropriate design solutions.
Process
My process is based on a simplified version of the RIBA Plan of Work, guiding clients through each project in clearly defined stages, step by step. I remain closely involved throughout, overseeing all aspects of the design throughout our appointment.
Collaboration
I have close working relationships with trusted local builders, structural engineers, planning officers and building control inspectors, as well as specialist consultants where required. This ensures every aspect of the design and delivery is well coordinated and in capable hands.
Technical Background
I have a strong focus on technical design and detailing, and place particular importance
on how buildings are actually delivered on site, and how they stand the test of time.
I am a certified Passivhaus designer, with a long-standing interest in low-energy construction and building performance. While most projects are not taken to full Passivhaus standard, those principles inform my approach; particularly around comfort, quality and long-term durability.
This helps ensure that projects are not only well designed, but also robust and buildable.
Experience
I have over 20 years’ experience working in architecture, including roles at including multi
award-winning architects’ practices Niall McLaughlin Architects, Ian Simpson Architects,
and Ollier Smurthwaite Architects.
I also worked as a site-based architect on the London 2012 Olympic Stadium, watching the daily transformation of a vast swathe of post-industrial land from the foundations being poured to completion.
Previously co-directing a practice since its inception in 2019, I set up Tom Attewell Architects in 2022.
Today, my focus is on a smaller number of carefully selected residential projects, where I can remain closely involved from concept through to completion.
Personal
Outside of work, I live locally with my wife and two young children, who keep life busy
and grounded in equal measure.
I have a particular passion for older properties and have extended and remodelled my own Victorian and Edwardian homes in South Manchester. The first in 2018 and the second more recently.
I enjoy keeping fit when I can, and I’m currently learning British Sign Language.
