StudiO Architecture + Design

StudiO is an award-winning, RIBA Chartered architecture and design practice based on the island of Guernsey. 

Working across the Channel Islands, UK and EU, we deliver a broad range of design solutions across residential, commercial, and community projects, at all scales and on all budgets. In addition to architecture and design, we also offer landscape and interior design, either as part of the broader architectural process or as services in their own right.

Our ethos is simple. We approach every project as unique. We value integrity at every stage of the process. And we believe that well-designed spaces can change lives.

We work closely with each client to understand their brief and appreciate the full context (be it physical, commercial or conceptual) of their project. Our detailed consideration of each brief, and the process we undertake, is what sets us apart.

At StudiO, we have no particular stylistic agenda and approach each commission as a one-off. Whether merging the old with the new or delivering cutting-edge contemporary design, our high-quality solutions create exceptional buildings, spaces and experiences.

We have decades of experience across a broad range of projects, from multi-million-pound private homes to non-profit community spaces, and from much-loved restaurants to curated exhibitions. 

We pride ourselves on building positive, long-term relationships with clients, contractors, designers and consultants based on good communication and clear strategy. We take what we do very seriously, but believe the process should be enjoyable for all involved.

Meet the team

Oliver Westgarth

Founder & Chartered Architect

BA(Hons), Dip.Arch, PGDipArch

ARB, RIBA

oliver@studi-o.io

As a Chartered Architect and Founder of StudiO Oliver takes a critical role throughout every stage of the design and construction process. Oliver’s infectious enthusiasm for projects inspires both his team and his clients, maximising the potential of any given brief, no matter the scale or budget. His 20+ years of experience in the industry have seen him gain expertise not only in design but technical detailing, project administration and, unusually, also significant hands-on construction experience. Driven by detail and quality, Oliver works closely with clients to understand and respond to each unique brief with innovation and integrity.

Ben Hewlett

Senior Chartered Technologist

BSc(Hons)

MCIAT

ben@studi-o.io

Ben leads the technical team, focussing on the technical aspects of designs and their subsequent construction. With 20+ years’ experience, Ben has worked on a variety of projects from contemporary new builds to sensitive restorations, utilising his technical knowledge to bring innovative designs to fruition. Ben works closely with contractors and clients during the construction phase to see projects through to completion, with his professionalism and friendly manner always making him a highly valued and respected member of the construction team.

Amelia Brown

Chartered Architect

BSc(Hons), MArch, PGDipArch

ARB, RIBA

amelia@studi-o.io

As a Chartered Architect Amelia’s project involvement spans presentation of initial concepts, coordination of various works packages, legislative applications, and site and contract administration. Having gained experience on a variety of scales of project Amelia enjoys enhancing clients’ properties through simple and innovative interventions. Her role involves liaising closely with clients and consultants throughout the process and she strives to continue to enhance the level of presentation information supplied to clients in order to bring their projects to life, taking a lead role in producing 3D models and visualisations in house.

Chris Martel

Chartered Architect, Designer & Technologist

BA(Hons), MA, DipArch, PGDipArch

ARB, RIBA, MCIAT, MCSD

chris@studi-o.io

Specialising in interior architecture, Chris is not only a Chartered Interior Designer but also a Chartered Architect and Chartered Architectural Technologist who has worked in the construction and design industry for 30+ years. Having worked on a number of local and UK based projects, most notably in Guernsey the Red restaurant portfolio, Chris pours creativity and technical knowledge into bringing designs to reality with an unrivalled attention to detail. His extensive knowledge of local building legislation and planning policy is key in optimising scheme feasibility.

Neil Hipkiss

Senior Architectural Technologist

Building Studies HNC

neil@studi-o.io

Neil is an Architectural Technologist and Designer with over 35 years varied work experience in both private and public sectors, having worked on a diverse range of projects locally and in the UK. Neil’s role within StudiO includes the production of planning drawings, building regulation and large scale detailed technical drawings. He specialises in intricate detailing such as stonework and joinery when aesthetics are as important as a technical solution. Neil is also a long established professional artist in his own right, focusing on the technical subjects of aviation and automotive art.

Natasha Dickinson-Potapkova

Architectural Designer

Specialist Degree in Interior Design

natasha@studi-o.io

Natasha is a qualified Interior & Architectural Designer and works with the team to bring together project concepts through 3D modelling, visualisation and detailed room scheduling, as well as undertaking drafting of concept and planning drawings. Her flair for interior design and skilled 3D modelling enables the production of detailed and interactive models. Through these models, the team works closely with clients to incorporate their vision into the scheme resulting in highly tailored, personal designs. The visualisations Natasha develops are an invaluable tool for communicating ideas to clients, providing a personal and dynamic design process.

Doug Langlois

Chartered Architect

BSc(Hons), BArch

ARB, RIBA

doug@studi-o.io

Doug is a Chartered Architect with over 20 years of experience across a range of projects, with particular knowledge of residential, bar and restaurant design. With a passion for detailed design and technical solutions, Doug enjoys forming close relationships with clients and contractors to ensure a successful outcome to every project. Doug has recently completed a renovation and extension of his own house, taking a hands-on approach to much of the building work. At StudiO, Doug works as a project architect, taking on all aspects from conception to completion.

Daria Iwon

Interior Designer

BA(Hons)

daria@studi-o.io

Daria is an Interior Designer and Architectural Assistant, driven by her appreciation for beautiful spaces and design aesthetics. After completing her studies at the Arts University Bournemouth, Daria honed her skills as a textile designer in London before choosing to specialise in interiors. At StudiO, Daria develops interior schemes through detailed research, comprehensive mood and sample boards, and creative collaboration with the team, enabling her to deliver designs of the highest quality. Always eager to deepen her knowledge of architecture and design, Daria regularly assists other team members with their projects and processes.

Ben Hinshaw

Marketing & Communications

BA(Hons), MA

benhinshaw@studi-o.io

Ben is a writer and editor with more than a decade of experience creating copy and content across various industries, including tech, healthcare, higher education, social policy, online learning, urban development and more. Ben holds MAs in cultural geography (University of Nottingham) and creative writing (University of California, Davis). His debut novel Exactly What You Mean was published by Penguin Random House in 2022 and featured on BBC Two’s Between the Covers. At StudiO, Ben handles our marketing and communications, including web content, social media, email newsletters, promotional articles, awards submissions and more.

Jack Etheridge

Plantsman & Landscape Consultant

Jack is a qualified horticulturist and garden designer who graduated from Capel Manor College, a specialist horticultural college affiliated with Kew Gardens. Prior to that, he studied art and design at Kingston School of Art. His work has featured at the Chelsea Flower Show and been recognised by various local and national awards. As StudiO’s plantsman and landscape consultant, Jack plays a central role in our landscape design work, using his experience and expertise to craft exquisite, sustainable outdoor spaces.

Interested in joining the StudiO team?

Email us at:

careers@studi-o.io

Awards + accolades

GDA 2024 winner – Pres de Sable / Doug’s Place, Guernsey – Small Projects

GDA 2024 winner – La Fosse Cottage, Guernsey – Single Residential Renovation/Extension

GDA 2024 shortlisted – Murata, Guernsey – Small Projects

GDA 2024 shortlisted – Canvas Nightclub, Guernsey – Commercial

Guernsey Property and Construction Awards 2024 – Internal Domestic of the Year – Murata, Guernsey

Guernsey Property and Construction Awards 2023 – Engineering Project of the Year – La Fosse Balcony, Guernsey

RIBA South East Award 2021 – The Children’s Library, St Peter Port  (shortlisted)

Dezeen Awards 2020 – The Children’s Library, St Peter Port (Longlisted)

GDA 2020 winner – The Children’s Library, St Peter Port – Commercial

Guernsey Property and Construction Awards 2019 – Construction Professional of the Year – Oliver Westgarth

Guernsey Property and Construction Awards 2019 – Engineering Project of the Year – Fermain Tower, Guernsey

GDA 2018 winner – Le Mont Saint Farm, Guernsey – People’s Choice

​​GDA 2018 winner – Le Mont Saint Farm, Guernsey – Residential Renovation/Extension over £250K

GDA 2016 shortlisted – Maison D’Aval, Rue Des Caches, Guernsey – Residential Renovation/ Extension over £250K

GDA 2016 shortlisted – La Cherterie, Rue des Fontennelles, Guernsey – Residential Renovation/ Extension over £250K

Best Salon Design Award, British Hairdressing Awards 2007

Grand Designs ‘20th Anniversary special – Kevin’s Grandest Design. Top 5’ – The Peckham House, London

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