Two decades of dedicated public sector architectural practice
Ochre-birch was established in 2003 with a singular focus: designing buildings that serve the public interest. From the outset, we recognised that government architecture demands a distinct approach, balancing democratic values, operational efficiency, and fiscal responsibility.
Our founders brought together expertise from major infrastructure projects across Europe, united by conviction that public buildings deserve the same design rigour as the finest private commissions. This philosophy continues to guide every project we undertake.
Today, we operate from our London studio with a team of forty architects, engineers, and project specialists. Our portfolio spans courthouse complexes, council headquarters, parliamentary buildings, and heritage restoration across the United Kingdom.
Principles that inform every decision we make
We design for scrutiny. Every material choice, every structural decision must withstand examination by auditors, politicians, and the public who fund these buildings.
Government buildings serve everyone. We exceed accessibility requirements, creating spaces that welcome all citizens regardless of ability, age, or circumstance.
Public buildings last generations. We design for adaptability, anticipating how institutions evolve and how communities change over fifty-year horizons.
Working exclusively within the public sector has given us unparalleled understanding of government procurement processes, regulatory frameworks, and stakeholder management unique to civic projects.
We navigate Treasury guidelines, heritage protection requirements, and local planning policies with fluency that accelerates project delivery. Our relationships with statutory bodies enable productive dialogue from project inception.
This specialisation means we anticipate challenges that generalist practices encounter only occasionally. From security specifications for justice buildings to acoustic standards for council chambers, our technical knowledge runs deep.
Experienced practitioners guiding our practice
Founding Director
Design Director
Heritage Lead
Selected awards and distinctions
National recognition for the Merseyside Justice Centre, acknowledged for its innovative approach to court design and public accessibility.
Awarded for the restoration of Blackwater Town Hall, preserving Grade II listed fabric whilst creating contemporary civic space.
Achieved for the Highland Council Offices, among the highest sustainability ratings for a public building in Scotland.