Our Foundation

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.

Architectural studio workspace with design drawings and models

Our Values

Principles that inform every decision we make

Public Accountability

We design for scrutiny. Every material choice, every structural decision must withstand examination by auditors, politicians, and the public who fund these buildings.

Accessible Design

Government buildings serve everyone. We exceed accessibility requirements, creating spaces that welcome all citizens regardless of ability, age, or circumstance.

Long-term Thinking

Public buildings last generations. We design for adaptability, anticipating how institutions evolve and how communities change over fifty-year horizons.

Team of architects reviewing building plans around a large table

Our Expertise

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.

Leadership

Experienced practitioners guiding our practice

Portrait of founding director

Richard Pemberton

Founding Director

Portrait of design director

Catherine Ashworth

Design Director

Portrait of heritage lead

David Mercer

Heritage Lead

Recognition

Selected awards and distinctions

RIBA Award 2024

National recognition for the Merseyside Justice Centre, acknowledged for its innovative approach to court design and public accessibility.

Civic Trust Commendation

Awarded for the restoration of Blackwater Town Hall, preserving Grade II listed fabric whilst creating contemporary civic space.

BREEAM Outstanding

Achieved for the Highland Council Offices, among the highest sustainability ratings for a public building in Scotland.

Work With Us

Discuss your public sector project with our experienced team.

Contact Us