Studio

Established in Cornwall in 2020, our practice is grounded in the perfect combination of a strong design vision and both practical and technical experience.

As a close-knit team we pride ourselves on our personal approach to each project and the relationships we have with our clients. We recognise that in designing the places and spaces in which you live, you are affording us a unique opportunity to enhance not just the bricks and timber around you but your whole living environment.

Living in this wild and beautiful part of the world we understand that the elements need to be worked with in harmony, so that our buildings can stand true in their surroundings, that they only gain more beauty with age. These ever-changing seascapes and landscapes of Cornwall offer up unique challenges: whether that be through Planning Consent hurdles, consideration of prevailing coastal winds or simply delivering lasting materials which can endure the sea air!

Sustainability underpins our work, and we will always offer environmentally led resources, smart solutions to lower energy consumption and considered materials, all sympathetic to our impact on our planet.

Founder James Dart grew up on the North Cornwall Coast and has chosen this stunning part of the world to bring up his young family. Before pursuing his own career in architecture, James spent many years working alongside his architect father. Together they renovated, restored, and designed properties across Cornwall. With this wealth of practical experience James established a rare and organic understanding of the whole process of building procurement from planning to foundations through to finished surfaces.

Sarah is an RIBA & ARB chartered architect with a decade of experience in the residential sector. She has worked in Sydney and London on both large-scale developments and high-end bespoke homes. Sarah is motivated by understanding each client’s aspirations and dreams for their project, delivering the highest standards and finishes with an honest approach and keen eye for detail. Living in Cadgwith with her young family and beloved golden retriever, Sarah enjoys and respects the unique Cornish way of life and the outdoor lifestyle on our doorsteps.

Dave is our technical design wizard (words not used lightly). After training as a sound engineer and living in London for 6 years, Dave moved to Cornwall in 2005 to escape the city and begin Plan B. 17 years of technical design experience, several award-winning designs later and it turns out, Dave is very good at this! Dave 3D models our buildings and leads our technical design stages. His unique background and experience are great assets in helping realise our clients wishes and he also keeps the office filled with an eclectic mix of music.

Matt grew up down the road from our studio. A keen sportsman with an adventurous spirit, he has an inherent understanding & admiration for our unique Cornish landscapes. Prior to joining DART, Matt worked & studied in London, specialising in high-end residential projects & honing his creative design skills. However after several years in the capital, Matt leapt at the chance to return home & practice in Cornwall as a fully qualified architect. Matt, now back living in Falmouth, is keen to reconnect with the outdoors and his favoured Cornish pace of life. He has ambitions to develop his knowledge of sustainable design with a view to make a positive impact on the built environment in his home county.

We want your home to work for you, your family, and your guests and for you to realise your dream project. We also promise to nurture your new dreams and ideas along the way. In short, every project has a starting point and a finale, but it is the journey that makes the difference, and we can help you at every step.

Let’s go on a journey together.