Big Ideas.

Real World Solutions.

We started JSA in 2002 with a simple idea. To do things differently.

Whether its a family home, commercial workspace or boutique hotel, our clients come to us because we make the complex simple.

Because your building project should be exciting, not exhausting.

20+ Years of Big Ideas

From designing and delivering the East Midlands’ first Passivhaus to being named the ‘Best Creative Architectural Studio’ by BUILD Magazine, we challenge outdated ideas to drag a dated industry into the future.

We rethink processes, improve how teams collaborate, and make client communication our cornerstone—so projects run smoother, faster, and with fewer surprises.

Design in the cloud. Feet on the ground.

When others were still tied to paper plans and office-bound meetings, we moved everything to the cloud, making collaboration seamless whether on site, in the studio, or at the kitchen table.

Working from flexible studios in Derby, Nottingham, Lichfield, and Solihull, we stay connected to the communities we serve. No unnecessary overheads, just local expertise where and when you need it.

Making Architecture Make Sense. Finally.

We’ve been stripping the stress out of building projects since day one, giving clients clear options, honest advice, and stunning designs that actually work.

We keep the process straightforward—from first sketch to final handover—so you’re never left guessing what happens next. Every decision has a reason. And every space is shaped around how you actually live, work, or play.

We're rethinking design.

Because great results don't happen by accident.

01

Expertise over ego.

We know when to push boundaries and when to stick to what works. That’s how we lead on sustainability, unlock value in older buildings, and consistently deliver spaces that go further than the brief.

01

Expertise over ego.

We know when to push boundaries and when to stick to what works. That’s how we lead on sustainability, unlock value in older buildings, and consistently deliver spaces that go further than the brief.

01

Expertise over ego.

We know when to push boundaries and when to stick to what works. That’s how we lead on sustainability, unlock value in older buildings, and consistently deliver spaces that go further than the brief.

01

Expertise over ego.

We know when to push boundaries and when to stick to what works. That’s how we lead on sustainability, unlock value in older buildings, and consistently deliver spaces that go further than the brief.

01

Expertise over ego.

We know when to push boundaries and when to stick to what works. That’s how we lead on sustainability, unlock value in older buildings, and consistently deliver spaces that go further than the brief.

01

Expertise over ego.

We know when to push boundaries and when to stick to what works. That’s how we lead on sustainability, unlock value in older buildings, and consistently deliver spaces that go further than the brief.

Architect smiling while reviewing a 3D building rendering on dual monitors at a studio desk

SAY HELLO

A small team with big ideas.

Our architects, technologists, interior designers and visualisers work together on every project, so you’re never handed off or lost in the shuffle. Just one tight-knit team, focused on getting it right from start to finish.

Chris

Director / Chartered Architectural Technologist

Justin

Architect / Founder

Olivia

Part I Architectural Assistant

Mertcan

Part II Architectural Assistant

Joao

Architectural Technologist / Visualiser

Tara

Studio Manager

What people have to say about us..

We could tell you how great we are, but it sounds so much better coming from our clients. Here's what they really think.

We're local architects serving the Midlands' best communities.

Happy Clients500

Completed Projects700

Planning Success Rate97%

OUR STORY

2002 - The beginnning
Justin Smith Architects started with a simple idea: architecture should be exciting, functional, and make sense. Our goal was to solve complex problems, not create them, and deliver stunning designs without the industry nonsense.
2002-2007 - Laying foundations
As our portfolio of bespoke homes and boutique commercial projects grew, so did our reputation for thoughtful, quality design. By 2007, we'd moved into a proper commercial office—ready for what came next.
2008-2015 - Pushing boundaries
Our early era of rethinking what architecture could be. We delivered the East Midlands' first ever Passivhaus, making sustainability standard practice long before it became a buzzword. Multi-million-pound homes quickly followed, and so did our commitment to the community: sponsoring Derby County FC and backing our local roots.
2016 - A home of our own
We practiced what we preached by remodeling our own purpose-built offices on Queen Street, Derby. Finally, we had a studio that reflected our approach: innovative, forward-thinking, and quality-focused.
2019 - A smarter future
We rebranded as JSA Architects and evolved our working model completely. Instead of being tied to one location, we shifted to flexible studios across the Midlands, allowing us to work closer to our clients while staying agile.
2020 - A new chapter
We transitioned from a founder-led practice to an employee-owned business, securing our future while preserving the client-first values that define us. Justin remained as an architect and consultant, while Chris took the wheel to lead us into a new era.
2021-2025 - Stronger than ever
Despite shifting markets and a global pandemic, 2021 saw record success, proving that adaptability and great design always win. By 2024, we'd opened our Lichfield studio, growing our reach while staying true to the collaborative, nimble approach that got us here.

Ready To Talk?

Get in touch today. Start something special tomorrow.