The Practice

About us.

Acanthus RH Architects LLP is a RIBA Chartered Practice based on the outskirts of Chelmsford, Essex.

Formerly known as Robert Hutson Architects, the Practice was renamed following Robert Hutson's retirement in October 2021.

The Practice entered a new chapter as Acanthus RH Architects, with Peter Heather and Trudi Quirk becoming joint members of the Practice and continuing its long-standing tradition of delivering thoughtful, context-sensitive architecture throughout Essex and beyond.

With over 40 years of architectural heritage and an established reputation for delivering thoughtful, bespoke design solutions, we work across a broad spectrum of the built environment.

Our approach combines creative design with a practical understanding of our clients' aspirations, ensuring every project is tailored to its unique context and requirements. Our team has developed specialist expertise in a diverse range of sectors.

At the heart of our Practice is a commitment to building strong and lasting relationships with our clients. Much of our work comes from repeat commissions and personal recommendations, reflecting the trust that clients place in us and the service we provide.

We take pride in developing long-term partnerships, often working with clients across multiple projects over many years. By taking the time to understand their aspirations, priorities and challenges, we are able to provide thoughtful advice and tailored design solutions that continue to deliver value long after a project is completed.

One of the strengths of our Practice is our people. We have been fortunate to develop a creative and experienced team, with several valued and loyal members of staff having been with us for many years.

Their experience, enthusiasm and commitment contribute greatly to the culture of the practice and the quality of our work. Combined with the long-standing relationships we have built with many of our clients, this continuity allows us to provide a personal, collaborative service and a deep understanding of our clients' aspirations.

Our Members

The people behind the Practice.

Peter Heather

Peter joined the Practice in the late 1980s and became Robert Hutson's business partner, a role he held for almost twenty years. Throughout this time, he helped shape the Practice's reputation for delivering high-quality residential, commercial, heritage and community projects.

A RIBA Chartered Architect for over 40 years, he is responsible for the Practice's compliance and financial controls.

In addition to his role within the Practice, Peter has held the post of Chair of Acanthus on two separate occasions.

With extensive experience in the design and planning negotiation of residential schemes he provides the reassurance to our clients that his extensive experience brings.

Trudi Quirk

Trudi joined the Practice in 2001, bringing with her a background in both architecture and interior design, and has played a key role in the continued development and success of the Practice.

With extensive experience across residential architecture, listed buildings and interior design projects, Trudi is recognised for her ability to develop thoughtful and practical design solutions that respond sensitively to both client aspirations and site constraints.

Alongside her architectural expertise, Trudi leads the Practice's interior design services and has a particular interest in the adaptation, refurbishment and sensitive alteration of existing buildings. She combines a strong understanding of architectural heritage with a passion for creating spaces that enhance the way people live and work.

Her expertise spans all stages of a project, from initial concept design and planning through to completion on site. Trudi's collaborative approach, attention to detail and commitment to client service have helped establish long-standing relationships with clients.

Sectors

Our specialist expertise.

Some of the projects illustrated within this portfolio were undertaken by members of the current team whilst practising as Robert Hutson Architects, before the formation of Acanthus RH Architects in 2021.

Residential

Residential architecture has been at the heart of our practice for over 40 years. We have extensive experience in the design of new homes, renovations and housing developments of all scales, from individual bespoke dwellings to larger residential schemes. Our strong understanding of planning policy, heritage assets and sensitive site contexts enables us to develop creative, practical and sustainable solutions that maximise each site's potential whilst responding positively to its surroundings and our clients' aspirations.

Master Planning

From initial site appraisals and development strategies through to detailed masterplans, we provide a comprehensive range of master planning services for residential, mixed-use and community-led developments. Our approach combines commercial awareness with placemaking principles, creating sustainable, well-connected environments that respond to local character, support future growth and deliver lasting value for communities, landowners and developers.

Leisure, Hospitality & Community

We have delivered a diverse range of leisure, hospitality and community projects, including hotels, public houses, restaurants, visitor centres and emergency service facilities. Each project is approached with creativity, careful analysis and a commitment to delivering architecture that enhances the user experience whilst responding to the specific needs of the client, building and site.

Interior Design

Our interior design service complements our architectural work and can also be commissioned independently. Working closely with our clients, we create interiors that are functional, timeless and tailored to individual aspirations. Our services range from concept design and space planning through to detailed specifications, finishes, furnishings and project implementation.

Principal Designer (Building Regulations)

For our clients undertaking developments that do not fall into the classification of Higher Risk Buildings, and where we are already acting as project architect, we have the necessary competence and experience to undertake the role of Building Regulations Principal Designer.

For further detail on the legislative requirements, see our journal blog.

Conservation

Although not accredited conservation specialists, the Practice has long championed the sensitive adaptation and extension of heritage buildings.

Our membership of the Acanthus network allows us to call on specialist advice and input where required, and over the years we have developed relationships with professionals undertaking structural engineering, archaeological investigation and condition surveys. This network supports us as we deliver beautiful interventions to heritage structures.

Sustainable Design

Our commitment to balancing the requirements of sound sustainability principles and client expectations sits at the heart of our design service, whether through the retrofit of existing structures or low energy design in new buildings.

We equip our clients to meet the challenges of a world with diminishing resources and ever increasing fluctuations in climate.

Principal Designer (CDM)

We provide Principal Designer services in accordance with the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015). Drawing on our technical expertise and understanding of the design process, we assist clients and project teams in managing health and safety throughout the design and construction stages of a project, helping to ensure compliance whilst supporting successful project delivery.

The Acanthus Network

Acanthus RH Architects is a member of the Acanthus Network, a national group of independent architectural practices committed to excellence in architecture, conservation and client service. Established in 1986, the network comprises seven practices across the UK, combining local knowledge with shared expertise and resources. Through collaboration, shared knowledge and specialist expertise, the network provides clients with the benefits of local practice experience supported by a wider national resource.

Clients

We have had the pleasure of working with a range of clients over the years and are proud of the relationships we have been able to establish.

Residential

  • Aitch Group
  • Bellway Homes Ltd (Essex)
  • Bellway Homes Ltd (Strategic)
  • Barratt Eastern Counties
  • Blakes Terrain Ltd
  • Cala Homes
  • Clearbrook Group
  • Daniel James Developments
  • Faberdean Fy Ltd
  • Landisdale Trust
  • Linden Homes
  • Marden Homes Ltd
  • Mount Street Developments Ltd
  • Morgans
  • Promount Developments Ltd
  • Purely Property Group
  • Propiteer Homes Ltd
  • Reddington Capital
  • SJT Developments Ltd
  • Sammi Developments Ltd
  • Tern Developments Ltd

Hospitality / Commercial

  • Aquila House Holdings Ltd
  • Barcham Trees Plc
  • Chelmsford City Council
  • County Hotel Holdings
  • Club Quarters Hotel Group
  • English Auberge Ltd
  • Eeast Trust
  • Halstead Town Council
  • NHS
  • Red Cat Pub Company
  • Rustic Pub Group
  • Vita Bella Restaurant Group

Education

  • London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
  • University of Kent
  • University of London
  • University of Westminster