London

About Us

Who we are. What we do

We are a firm based in the heart of Winchester, specialising in one-off homes and Luxury developments

Our Story.

On a prominent corner plot, the building is set over 5 storeys, transitioning in scale beneath an undulating roof structure. The building’s contemporary, responsive form and its materiality has been designed to amplify development potential whilst respecting the architecture and scale of adjacent buildings, which feature white rendered façades and prominent gabled elevations.

Floor-to-ceiling windows, Juliette and recessed balconies let in abundant natural light and will look on to the site’s retained mature trees and new landscaping, designed to mimic a forest floor.

How we work.

On a prominent corner plot, the building is set over 5 storeys, transitioning in scale beneath an undulating roof structure. The building’s contemporary, responsive form and its materiality has been designed to amplify development potential whilst respecting the architecture and scale of adjacent buildings, which feature white rendered façades and prominent gabled elevations.

Floor-to-ceiling windows, Juliette and recessed balconies let in abundant natural light and will look on to the site’s retained mature trees and new landscaping, designed to mimic a forest floor.

Meet the Studio.

Olly Bray

Founding Director

Ross Galtress

Senior Associate

Paul Hammond

Technical Architect

Toby Wincer

Director

Anthony May

Associate

Grant Freeman

Director

Dan Pyzer-Knapp

Associate

Ana Kovacevic

Practice Manager

Jess Armstrong

Associate

Jamie Willmer

Associate

Marisol Maida

Architectural Assistant

Maureen Soupé

Architect

Tom Craven

Architect

Jack Baggaley

Architectural Assistant

Daniel Dehghani

Architectural Assistant

Directors.

Coming Soon…

Architects.

Coming Soon…

Technologists.

Coming Soon…

Assistants.

Coming Soon…

Our Process.

Getting started.

A

Before we meet.

We’ll review the site in advance using any information available online, along with any photos, documents, or location details you’re able to share.

We’ll also look into the relevant planning constraints so we have a clear understanding of what may be possible before our first face-to-face meeting.

B

When we first meet.

We’ll begin by getting to know you and, most importantly, listening to your ideas. We’ll talk about what you like, how you live, and what matters most to you in your home.

We’ll also take time to understand the site in detail – its constraints, such as neighbouring buildings, protected trees, or listed structures, as well as its opportunities, including views, sunlight, and the character of the surrounding area.

You may have been thinking about your project for years and already have a clear brief, or you may prefer to use this first meeting as an opportunity to explore your ideas with us. Either way, the conversation will help us develop a strong understanding of how to turn your thoughts, aspirations, and lifestyle into something truly special.

C

Talking about cost.

Before moving forward, we’ll clearly outline the cost of working with us to develop the design for your new project and guide it through the planning process

At this stage, other professional consultants may also need to be involved, such as a tree consultants or a topographical surveyors. We’ll explain which specialists are likely to be required and provide an indication of their potential costs so you have a clear understanding from the outset.

With this in place, we can begin refining the design ideas and shaping the project in more detail. We’ll also outline the expected timescales for this stage so you know what to expect.

Services.

Work-stages

At this stage, we build on the initial discussions to develop a detailed project brief. This includes reviewing site information, carrying out feasibility studies, and identifying any key risks or constraints.

We may also begin early conversations with consultants or local authorities where appropriate. The aim is to ensure the project is well-defined, achievable, and aligned with your priorities before moving into design.

01

Prep and brief.

This is where your project begins to take shape. We explore a range of design ideas through sketches, diagrams, and early layouts, testing how the building can respond to the site, light, and your way of living.

Rather than presenting a single solution, we develop a small number of considered options and refine them with you. By the end of this stage, we establish a clear design direction and overall character for the project.

02

Concept design.

With the concept agreed, we develop the design in greater detail and coordinate it with input from other consultants where required.

Layouts are refined, key elements are resolved, and the scheme is prepared for planning submission.

We ensure the design is robust, compliant, and clearly communicated, giving it the best chance of a successful outcome through the planning process.

03

Spatial coordination.

At this stage, the design is translated into detailed technical information ready for construction.

We produce coordinated drawings, specifications, and schedules, resolving materials, junctions, and construction methods.

This information is used for pricing, building regulations approval, and construction on site. The focus is on clarity, accuracy, and ensuring the design can be built efficiently and to a high standard.

04

Technical design.

As the project moves on site, we continue to support its delivery. We work closely with the contractor to review progress, respond to queries, and resolve any issues that arise during construction.

Regular site visits allow us to monitor quality and ensure the design intent is maintained.

This stage is about guiding the project through to completion with consistency, care, and attention to detail.

05

Construction.

As construction completes, we support final inspections and the handover of the building.

We ensure that all elements of the design have been delivered as intended and assist in addressing any final adjustments. We also provide guidance to help you settle into and use the building effectively.

The focus is on a smooth transition from construction to occupation, ensuring the project performs as expected over time.

06

Delivery + aftercare.

Get in touch.

First Name(Required)
Surname(Required)

Specialises in

One-off homes and Masterplanning

info@obarchitecture.co.uk

Ross Galtress

Senior Associate

Ross is an expert in the design and delivery of outstanding residential developments, private homes, meanwhile spaces, temporary installations and public buildings for art and culture.

On every project, Ross brings care, focus and creative vision to ensure that the results exceed expectations. He takes pride in working closely with clients to properly understand their priorities and make the most of their sites, and he has an aptitude for overcoming challenges, complexities, and tight programmes, with a strategic and positive approach.

Ross studied at the Universities of Plymouth, Greenwich and London Metropolitan. He is based in Winchester but has worked in London for most of his career and maintains strong connections there. Outside of the office, Ross is kept busy by his three boys, his love of the outdoors, the mountains, and mountains of cake.

Find Ross’s profile on LinkedIn

Ross is based in the Winchester office

Blog posts by Ross: Designing from the Inside Out

Read more about the projects that Ross has been involved in Strawberry Close Haywards Heath RAOB

Specialises in

One-off Country homes

info@obarchitecture.co.uk

Toby Wincer

Director (RIBA)

With over 16 years in practice Toby’s experience spans rural master-planning, mixed-use residential developments, high-end domestic homes and hospitality schemes. Toby’s projects at OB Architecture and his past practices have been the recipient of many industry awards and notations of excellence.

Adept in leading ambitious and creatively complex projects, Toby has an unfaltering approach to planning, programming and on-site management, which when combined with a rational yet innovative approach to design, delivers beautifully crafted and considered buildings.

Toby’s proven track record in delivery of both off-site and traditionally procured projects has led to repeat business with a broad spectrum of clients. Toby takes great pride in building these long-lasting professional relationships, based upon mutual trust and respect, earned through experience and sound advice.

Having worked in London for most of his professional career, Toby is also now Chair of the Hampshire RIBA branch. Toby studied architecture at The University of Sheffield and still harbours fond memories of the city, maintaining strong connections with the School of Architecture there. When not in the office or on site, Toby can be found on the water or on his bike competing in any number of adrenaline-fuelled activities.

Find Toby’s profile on LinkedIn

Toby is based in the Winchester London office

Blog posts by Toby: Coastal Environments Adding Value by Diversifying Farms and Rural Small Holdings

Read more about the projects that Toby has been involved in Spa House Treetops Sailors House Oasis

Specialises in

Technical detailing and Design

info@obarchitecture.co.uk

Anthony Holland May

Associate

Anthony is a passionate technical designer with a profound commitment to designing and delivering high-end bespoke homes. 

Anthony’s driver is his attention to detail ensuring the conceptual design and clients vision is carried all the way through the project to completion.  He has a passion for sustainable architecture and places great importance on developing strong relationships with contractors and suppliers, facilitating seamless project execution.

Anthony graduated from the University of Derby with a degree in architectural technology, and when he’s not shaping architectural dreams, he enjoys rejuvenating through long weekend walks, immersing himself in the outdoors, and indulging in a friendly game of tennis.

Find Anthony’s profile on LinkedIn

Anthony is based in the Winchester office

Blog posts by Anthony: Temporary Sustainable Structures

Read more about the projects that Anthony has been involved in Supercar Showroom Sailors House Spa House

Locations