Founded in 2010 by director Mart Barrass, the practice works with homeowners across Cambridge and Cambridgeshire to transform properties through thoughtful architectural design.
Every project begins with understanding the building, its setting and the aspirations of the people who use it. Whether working with a historic cottage, a listed property or a contemporary home, Mart Barrass Architect combines creativity with technical knowledge to create spaces that are practical, distinctive and built to last.
With a particular expertise in heritage and conservation projects, the practice has developed a reputation for introducing carefully considered modern design into historic settings.
A well-designed extension can transform how a home feels and functions. Mart Barrass Architect creates carefully considered additions that improve space, natural light and everyday living while complementing the character of the existing property.
Successful refurbishment is about understanding what a property can become. From improving layouts and introducing new uses for existing spaces to upgrading comfort and performance, Mart Barrass Architect helps homeowners unlock the potential within their homes.
Bespoke new homes provide an opportunity to create architecture that responds to its setting and the needs of the people who will live there. Mart Barrass Architect develops considered designs that combine practicality, character and sustainable thinking.
Converting an existing structure into a home requires careful consideration of character, materials and surroundings. The practice creates thoughtful barn conversions that preserve the qualities of the original building while introducing contemporary living spaces.
Historic buildings require a sensitive approach. With experience working on listed properties and within conservation areas, the practice creates designs that respect architectural heritage while allowing homes to meet modern requirements.
Mart Barrass Architect has been recognised for its approach to residential architecture, combining contemporary design with a sensitive understanding of existing buildings.
The practice’s Mirror Pod Extension to a Grade II listed thatched cottage in Fen Ditton demonstrates this approach, introducing a bold contemporary addition while respecting the character of the original property. The project was shortlisted for the RIBA East Award 2025, featured internationally in The Wall Street Journal and received an International Design Award.
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Many of the properties we work with have their own character and history, so the challenge is creating something new that feels like it belongs.
We design extensions that respond to the existing building while introducing more space, better natural light and improved ways of living. By carefully considering materials, proportions and the relationship between old and new, we create additions that feel connected rather than separate.
Working with listed buildings requires a careful understanding of what makes each property significant, from its original features and materials to its wider setting.
Mart Barrass Architect has experience creating sensitive designs for historic properties, including the award-winning Mirror Pod Extension to a Grade II listed thatched cottage in Fen Ditton. The project demonstrates how contemporary architecture can sit alongside heritage buildings while creating spaces suited to modern life.
Many homeowners come to us because their property has qualities they love, but the layout no longer works for the way they live.
We look at how spaces connect, where improvements can be made and how the building can be adapted without losing its identity. The aim is to unlock the potential of the property while preserving the character that makes it special.
The way we use our homes has changed, and many homeowners are looking for spaces that support working, creativity and flexible living.
Mart Barrass Architect designs thoughtful interiors and extensions that can include dedicated workspaces, studios and adaptable areas designed around the needs of each client.
Barn conversions offer the opportunity to create unique homes while retaining the character and history of the original structure.
Our approach begins with understanding the building itself, including its materials, proportions and surroundings. From there, we develop designs that preserve its distinctive qualities while introducing comfortable and practical living spaces.
The design of a home extends beyond the external structure. We consider how spaces feel and function from the inside as well as how they sit within their surroundings.
Our projects can include carefully planned interiors, integrated furniture, dedicated workspaces and bespoke elements that help create a complete architectural experience.
Many homeowners begin with an idea rather than a fixed plan. An initial conversation can help establish what opportunities exist within a property, what challenges may need to be considered and what approach may work best.
Mart Barrass Architect takes time to understand the building, the site and how you want to use the space before developing design proposals. This early stage can help shape a clearer direction for the project.
Contemporary design can sit comfortably alongside historic buildings when it is approached with care and understanding.
Mart Barrass Architect specialises in creating modern interventions within sensitive settings, considering the existing character of each property while introducing new spaces that support modern living.
