One-world design architects

28/05/2026

3 Planning consents granted in May!

In Woking, image shown, substantial extensions and refurbishment of a 4 bedroom family home.

In Chiddingfold, garage, annex and attic conversion granted.

In Grayshott, single storey side extension in the Green Belt granted.

24/05/2026

Stage 4 design is progressing apace for the new dining hall at Alfriston School in Beaconsfield.

After a significant setback last year, when the original main contractor appointed under a design & build contract entered liquidation, the project is now moving forward again under a traditional procurement route, with dedicated fundraisers also now being engaged by the school to help bring the vision to life.

Originally won in competition in 2023 and granted planning consent in 2024, the project has been carefully designed to support the needs of Alfriston’s students — a secondary SEN school for girls in Buckinghamshire.

The new building will provide a variety of dining environments tailored to students with neurodivergent needs, offering choice, comfort and flexibility throughout the day. Alongside dining facilities, the scheme also includes spaces where students can grow, prepare and cook their own food, helping to foster independence, confidence and life skills.

We’re excited to see momentum building once again on such an important and meaningful project. 🌿☀️

06/05/2026

On the drawing board:
Draft designs for the extension and sensitive restoration of a Grade II listed country home in Buckinghamshire.

Our approach carefully balances heritage with modern living, bringing the property into the 21st century through integrated technology, improved sustainability, and refined contemporary detailing, while always respecting the character of the original building and our client’s vision.

The proposed stone extension, set to replace a 1970's pool building, is designed to sit alongside the historic fabric, creating elegant new living spaces filled with natural light and a stronger connection to the landscape.

A thoughtful evolution of a historic home — preserving its story while shaping its future.

02/05/2026

On the drawing board: Fleshing out early ideas for a feasibility study for a project that could bring together:
– A new bridge to improve access
– A cycle hub and café to support everyday journeys
– A youth centre shaped around activity, social space and wellbeing

The proposal looks at how movement, sport and community life can sit alongside one another, from active courts to quieter rooftop spaces.

Early-stage thinking, but an important step in understanding what could work here and how it might serve local people.

01/05/2026

Happy Birthday Great Britain.

Today marks 319 years since the Acts of Union in 1707 brought England and Scotland together to form Great Britain.

Over three centuries, that union hasn’t just shaped politics and culture; it’s also played a major role in the UK’s environmental footprint. From the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution to a modern economy now grappling with decarbonisation, Great Britain’s path has had a profound impact on the global climate.

The next chapter is just as important. Delivering on net zero commitments, accelerating renewable energy, restoring natural ecosystems, and strengthening climate resilience, from infrastructure to communities, will define how this union contributes to the future now.

OnThisDay

17/04/2026

Visiting a client’s new home today. The past owners have left some interesting details!

Pipe work secured with a belt

A Belfast sink as a shower tray

There were much more serious issues but these two made us laugh

We are all for recycling but there are limits.

08/04/2026

11 kWh by 4pm in early April on the studio PV system- we are 100% renewable energy powered.

23/03/2026

On the drawing board:

We are working on the initial design for the refurbishment and extension of this beautiful Grade II listed home in the Home Counties. From its charming courtyard to the sweeping lawned gardens, and even its own well, this is a property full of character and history.

Our approach is all about balance carefully restoring what makes the house unique, while introducing a thoughtful, sympathetic extension, replacing a 1970's pool building, that supports modern family living. Alongside this, we’re weaving in improvements to energy efficiency as you would expect.

Excited to see this one evolve…

23/03/2026

https://www.linkedin.com/posts/chris-medland-8143103a_why-road-projects-get-built-but-pedestrian-activity-7441847795914784769-Np7U?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAAg7mZABO5lMsK-uKPVXVmjKUqznCED29qI

Why Road Projects Get Built, But Pedestrian & Cycle Bridges Don’t

18/03/2026

I’ve updated my profile picture on other social media profiles today, and yes I’m getting older! But, as I was told recently, thats far better than the alternative.

A milestone birthday a few months ago had me reflecting on all the things I’m grateful for. I can honestly say that at 50 I’m feeling more energised and excited about the future than ever. I genuinely feel like I’m just getting started- and there is a lot of things that need to be done.

One of the great joys in my life, after nearly 25 years in practice, is that I still absolutely love being an architect and the work we do at One World Design, now close to its 15th birthday. From the early stages of conceptual design to the satisfaction of seeing a project come to life, I’m still deeply passionate about the architectural process and all that it entails.

I’m lucky to have somehow stumbled into a balance between family life, practice, and academia that feels sustainable and rewarding. Living in the countryside near Haslemere allows me to enjoy simple pleasures like running in the hills and woods, and the space and calm that this brings, whilst being close to the excitement and culture of London and other nearby towns.

So, here’s to getting older- it’s not so bad- to continuing to find purpose and enjoying work. Onwards, perhaps not for another 50 years but for as long as possible.