Us | Waddington

‘People-centred design’

We follow a collaborative approach in our work, with design thinking being our tool to deliver truly innovative results that provide value for money and bring delight.

We are proud corporate citizens in our community of the Channel Islands, and we are proactive in making a net positive contribution within the built environment realm.

Why good design makes business sense

by Mike Waddington

Let’s start a conversation

Good design doesn’t need to be extravagant or expensive, but poor design really does end up costing a lot, whether it is because of defects, lack of efficiency or simply missed opportunities that by the time they are spotted are just too expensive to put right.

The starting point for good design is simple, we believe, it’s like the starting point of a good conversation. You need the right people in the room, listening to each other and freely exchanging ideas.

At Waddington’s we try to put ourselves in our clients’ shoes. We always put our clients at the centre of our conversations, listening to what they need and so enabling us to edge towards shared solutions.

Internally, we do the same thing. Our design process is a democratic team conversation, where the best ideas win. We debate, even argue, the smallest of details to get them right. Sometimes this means doing things more than once, in order to distil our ideas into the most refined solution.

We see design as a vehicle to achieve innovative design, and are always striving for elegant simplicity. Lean design is both beautiful and cost effective, and our shared, multi-disciplinary experience enables us to get to the point fast.

Whether it is squeezing more usable space out of a building, or finding ways to introduce more natural daylight and fresh air, we are passionate about delivering measurable, cost-effective design benefits.

We are an approachable team and don’t like ‘fluff’, we prefer engaging collaboratively and focussing on better design and longer lasting solutions.

Good design really does mean better business, so let’s start a conversation….

Waddington’s are a mixed bunch; architects, interior designers, landscape architects, brand creators, technical experts, business managers and fun-loving creatives. Our team is first and foremost a meritocracy of ideas; we collaborate to innovate. We all share a love for good design and have decades of practical experience. Whether it is helping to create new communities, green spaces, amazing interiors or the smallest of architectural details, these are the sum of our parts.

Mike Waddington

Director

Definitely a bit of an architectural geek, I also like taking photographs of strange, derelict things, art generally and travelling to new cities. I’m currently restoring a 1955 Citroen 2CV called Doris, and love its super-minimal engineering and post-war ‘austerity grey’ paint job.
Penny Francisco

Practice Manager

In the very small amount of time I am not ordering things on Amazon, I like running, spending time with my family and Hungarian Vizsla Dash.
Bruno Francisco

Head of Architecture

Outside the office, you will most likely find me running around Jersey, or the cliff paths training for my next marathon. If you don’t see me out, then I’m probably injured! My next project is, to train my Vizsla to beat me.
Matt Rentsch

Associate Director

I’m keen on travel, theatre and golf and have enjoyed completing the full refurbishment of my house in recent years. I’m also involved with assisting my son with his passion for drama, dance and music and was lucky enough to appear on stage alongside him at the Jersey Arts Centre in the production of Lord of the Flies.
Dave Kemp

Senior Architectural Technologist

Over 35 years of technical experience - I enjoy working in this industry. In my spare time I am also an owner of a horse livery yard, I have a passion for motorbikes and am a member of a Dog Agility Club.
Katie Kirby

Senior Technician

Originally from America, I’ve just recently moved to Jersey. Most of my time outside the office is spent exploring my new home. I love the beach, watching all the British cooking shows and getting most of the questions wrong at pub quiz!
Adam French

Trainee Technician

I have recently gained a BTEC in Construction and the Built Environment qualification in which I achieved a Merit. I studied this course part time whilst working with Waddington as a Trainee Technician. I aspire to become an Architect and am planning to study for my Architecture degree online with Oxford Brookes whilst working as a trainee as this gives me a balance of study and whilst gaining valuable practical skills. Outside of work I enjoy golf, fishing, motorsport and football, I am also an avid photographer.
Jack Lutz

Architectural Assistant

Graduating from the University of Kent in 2022 I’m keen to progress my architectural career with Waddington Architects. Outside of work, I enjoy travelling to new places in search of sun, keeping active on the cliff paths or getting out in the big blue that surrounds our beautiful island!
Stuart Dryden

Senior Interior Designer

As an interior designer with over 20 years of experience working in Belgium, London and Jersey, I focus on commercial interiors ranging from exhibition design, HoReCa to complete office refurbishments. I also enjoy what Jersey can offer from outdoor activities, including fat biking to bodyboarding and a good night out in a restaurant and pub.
Stephanie Nixon

Interior Designer

When I’m not designing, I keep myself busy by getting creative in the kitchen and perfecting my cooking skills, as well as trying to get my little one to eat it! I have a sense of adventure and try and experience new places and cities with my little family whenever I can.
Peter Noel

Architect

Outside of work I enjoy exploring new places, bouldering, hiking, and following Liverpool Football Club.