Architectural Emporium (AE) is an award-winning Liverpool-based architecture practice specialising in inventive, community-focused and contextually sensitive design. Our work spans refurbishment, conservation, interiors, new-build developments and public-realm interventions.
Like all good Emporiums, Architectural Emporium is a seller of unique goods. AE brings vigour, creativity and dynamism to projects of differing size and type. Not defined by a particular style or sector, we listen and each project is treated individually. Following collaborative and creative dialogue with clients, consultant teams and contractors; thorough detailed responses are sought that meet end user requirements and sustainability goals.
Photo: Matthew Westgate. Artwork: Babek Ganjei
Our Common Themes
Our work is shaped by an understanding of place and a sensitivity to materials. From small-scale interventions to complex, multi-layered developments, we approach each project with curiosity and a desire to create spaces that are authentic and engaging.
Although AE’s interventions are bespoke to each site and client’s requirements, it is possible to detect some underlying themes, such as: simple legible forms; context driven sensitivity; structures recycled; effective and efficient arrangements; inventive enveloping; innovative use of materials; interiors as integral; sophisticated detailing. The themes described correspond with our embedded resourceful approach to sustainability. We retain, redescribe and reimagine where possible with proposals that afford flexibility and incorporate change. New interventions and buildings are thoughtful, efficient and impactful.
How We Work
Collaboration sits at the heart of everything we do. By bringing clients, communities, consultants and contractors into the design conversation through engaging workshops and open effective communication, we ensure that each project is grounded in real needs and shared aspirations. This inclusive approach allows us to deliver architecture that is not only visually distinctive but also practical, sustainable and genuinely enriching for the people who use it.
From concept to construction, we remain hands-on and accessible, ensuring that the design journey is clear, collaborative, accountable and enjoyable. Our commitment, continuity and care ensures the result is architecture that feels honest, engaging and deeply connected to the people it serves.
Cobden Works for Walk the Plank
What We Do
The experience gained working on numerous significant listed buildings combined with reimagining less celebrated structures highlights our approach to sustainability, re-use and conservation. We use modern interventions to reimagine existing structures, whether of historic value or less heralded structures. Understanding the value in existing spaces and buildings allows us to focus cost and minimise new additions with maximum impact. Layered interventions respect their context, existing buildings and limit the embodied energy required to build new.
Our vast experience in the hospitality sector and ownership of a bar and brewery allows us to understand how public and arts buildings operate and need to function commercially to remain viable. Our experience of delivering interiors affordably is also evident in our imaginative approach to new build houses and apartments.
What We Believe
We believe architecture works best when it is shaped by the needs of its users and the identity of its place. That’s why we approach each commission with fresh eyes — engaging closely with clients, communities and collaborators to create designs that are imaginative, grounded and deliverable. We work flexibly without ego to ensure consultation outcomes are met.
Sustainable buildings, homes and communities are key concerns and are embedded into design responses. It is of paramount importance to improve the built environment with effective strategic planning and contemporary, affordable and original architectural interventions that provide better quality places to live, work and play in.
Awards We Have Won
2018 RIBA Award: Walk the Plank
2018 RIBA Emerging Practice of the Year: Architectural Emporium
2018 RIBA Client of the Year: Walk the Plank
2023 Merseyside Civic Design Awards Best Cultural Project: Future Yard
2024 AJ Small Projects Finalist: Bluecoat Hub
Testimonials
“Creative and professional, Architectural Emporium stand out for their constructive approach. They listen and add value at every stage, and consistently exceed expectations. Just as importantly, they’re a pleasure to work with — collaborative, engaged, and focused on the best outcome.”
Miles Falkingham , Owner of Liverpool Buyers Club and Red Welly, Ty Coch
“They develop and deliver our vision for spaces that are both aesthetically strong and commercially successful. Toby and the team bring a level of care, creativity and honesty that is rare – they genuinely understand how hospitality spaces need to feel and function, and consistently deliver environments that work for both guests and operators.”
Elaine Clarke OBE, CEO, Baa Bar Group
"Luke and Toby have created safe spaces for honest feedback, reflection and idea generation. Key to this process has been their transparency at every stage, good humour and their ability to treat the young people as the key stakeholder in this journey rather than just participants or beneficiaries. Co-creation is an overused term, but one that is rightly used to describe this process."
