Together we can...
design lasting solutions
Together we can...
GSSArchitecture is a national, award-winning architectural practice with a dynamic and forward-thinking approach. Operating across the whole of the UK with offices located in Kettering, Leeds, London, Newcastle, Harrogate and Milton Keynes, we specialise in projects where a collaborative approach is required.
We design tailored architectural solutions and place sustainability and inclusivity at the heart of our design ethos. Our project experience includes a diverse range of public and private sectors covering the entire process from inception through to completion, all of which are supported by in-house specialist divisions including Graphics and Conservation and Heritage.
Together, we can bring your vision to life.
industrial & logistics
We have extensive experience in delivering industrial and logistics projects, encompassing a full range of distribution and storage solutions, including purpose-built facilities for end users. Our portfolio also spans manufacturing and processing sites, workplace environments, retail spaces, and innovationled developments. While much of our work involves new-build projects, we also repurpose and modernise existing buildings to meet evolving client needs and market demands.
Our design-led approach is built on an understanding of each client’s products, processes, and strategic goals. By aligning with their technical requirements, performance objectives, and long-term vision, we create adaptable environments that drive productivity, sustainability, and innovation.
GSSArchitecture were appointed by DSV Road Limited as the Architect for a major development at their site in Purfleet, Essex. The scheme included a Global Transport and Logistics warehouse extension and a new three-storey office block, connected to the existing offices via an overhead footbridge.
The project consisted of the reconfiguration of the internal car parking and HGV circulation route, the demolition of two-storey warehouse offices, gatehouse and storage buildings, a new warehouse extension and three-storey office building, a new overhead footbridge between the new warehouse office pod and the existing three-storey office building, and a new retaining structure to the south-east corner of the site.
GSSArchitecture worked closely with DSV Road Limited, alongside BCAL Consulting, CS2 Chartered Surveyors and Borras Construction Limited.
DSV Manchester Hub
GSSArchitecture were appointed as Architect by DSV Road Limited to undertake the scheme for a two storey office extension based in Manchester.
The project consisted of the creation of two-storey offices within the existing building, refurbishment of existing offices, material alteration to the fire strategy within the existing warehouses, alterations to the car park and associated works.
We worked closely with DSV Road Limited, alongside BCAL Consulting, CS2 Chartered Surveyors and B&E Boys Ltd.
Essity’s Prudhoe Mill Site
GSSArchitecture have been working with global hygiene and health company Essity on a number of manufacturing projects at their Prudhoe Mill site in Northumberland.
We were appointed as Architect and Lead Designer for a new wastepaper recycling facility. This will house the latest in paperrecycling technology, which will reduce energy costs and increase its ability to use recycled materials. The project involves extensive BIM coordination with production line manufacturers and consultants.
Other projects we are delivering include a water treatment facility and a new P2 Drives Building, an industrial unit designed to house a new MCC and associated switchgear, supporting future machinery upgrades within the existing PM2 building.
Having members of the design team involved across multiple projects has built a strong understanding of the client and their wider site objectives. Our ongoing work with Essity reflects this familiarity and highlights our expertise in delivering efficient, sustainable solutions within industrial environments.
Fabric Upgrades and Decarbonisation
Essity has engaged GSSArchitecture to lead the development and execution of a maintenance programme at their Manchester facility, focused on repainting steel structures with corrosive and fire-resistant coatings.
GSSArchitecture will conduct site surveys, develop a comprehensive fire strategy, and prepare fire compartmentation plans to ensure compliance with building regulations and Essity’s loss prevention standards. In collaboration with fire engineering consultants and other specialists, GSSArchitecture will manage detailed planning, coordinate contractor requirements, and oversee statutory approval processes.
For the roof works, GSSArchitecture will assess the structure, provide cladding specifications, and deliver precise detailing to support the roofing package, ensuring seamless integration of design and execution.
Food Production & Chemical Facility
Over the years, GSSArchitecture has delivered multiple phases of work as part of an ongoing masterplan for the development of a processing plant for one of the global leaders in starch processing.
This has included three extensions to existing buildings, all completed while maintaining full production, as well as the construction of a new ten-place saccharification tank farm and new bulk chemical storage facilities. In addition, significant upgrades and modifications have been made to the site infrastructure, including new access roads, hardstanding areas, and pipe bridges.
GSSArchitecture worked closely with the in-house engineering team to incorporate client supplied equipment into the structure as the civil works progresses. The nature of the work required the design team to develop and demonstrate an understanding of the company’s industrial processes, all whilst managing the integration of the client’s process installation with the construction works.
Energy from Waste Power Station
GSSArchitecture have been appointed by a major international client to provide Architect and Lead Consultant services in the delivery of a new 20Mw Energy from Waste power station in Wales. The overall building complex is approximately 200m long and 36m (boiler house), with a 50m high chimney and an overall site area of 2.3ha.
GSS have been appointed to develop designs for all the buildings that are required to house the process plant contained within and designed by others. The buildings accommodate fuel reception and handling facilities, boiler and power generation turbines, along with office/welfare spaces. GSS have worked closely with the process engineers and package suppliers to ensure that the build forms address the complexities of the plant, ensuring ease of operation, access and allowing for future adaptability.
GSS have also been responsible for planning liaison and discharging all applicable conditions for this major infrastructure project. When fully operational, the plant will provide enough energy to the grid to power 50,000 homes each year, as well as helping to reduce landfill.
Energy and Carbon Masterplanning
GSSArchitecture have been appointed by a private client to lead the architectural masterplanning of four energy infrastructure sites across the UK.
The initiative focuses on sustainable waste-to-energy, energy recovery, and integrated carbon capture technologies. As Lead Architect, GSS are delivering masterplanning services that align with long-term environmental and operational goals. Working in collaboration with key stakeholders and technical specialists, the project supports the client’s drive towards decarbonisation and innovative energy solutions.
This project underscores GSSArchitecture’s expertise in strategic energy-sector developments and reinforces our commitment to sustainable design at scale.
Ferrybridge Power Station
The new Fryston Lane 132kV substation provides the link from the new multi-fuel power station to the regional network. GSS were responsible for developing and coordinating design proposals for the buildings that housed much of the plant and equipment, including facilities to house the switchgear control equipment. Our role included submitting and monitoring the various planning applications that were needed for this major infrastructure project, ensuring a successful outcome.
The project was complex, involving a multi-faceted client, and was subject to specific regulatory controls. The overall works also included all associated site works, such as drainage, access roads and vehicle compounds. As part of the project, the site levels were raised allowing the new HV substation foundations to be constructed. Other works included cable troughs and ducting, electrified palisade fencing and concrete perimeter security installations.
The project was delivered on programme and to the client’s satisfaction.
Distribution Centre
As Asda continues expanding its retail network, GSSArchitecture were appointed as Lead Consultant and Architect to develop detailed designs for this project in the North East.
This distribution and processing warehouse has a total footprint of 31,500m ², with associated welfare and office accommodation, and 3-storeys of internal store mezzanines creating an additional 27,000m².
In addition to Architectural services, our BIM co-ordination and clash detection services have been key to reviewing and coordinating the specialist processing equipment installation to enable the automation system, comprising motorized conveyors, overhead lines and storage racking over three-storeys in a building spanning 275m in length.
GSSArchitecture have worked with the team stakeholders to understand their business, process and requirements to drive a coordinated processing layout, which is supported by the enhanced fire strategy for the building.
Innovation and Training Centre
GSS Architecture were appointed as Architect to work alongside SDC Contractors to develop the design of a new Innovation and Training Centre for the internationally renowned packaging company, DS Smith.
The project consisted of a new standalone facility creating over 1200m² of floor space set in newly landscaped grounds. The accommodation comprises office space, product display areas, a new corporate boardroom, a training/seminar room, a simulated warehouse space and welfare facilities for staff members.
The project was completed on schedule and within budget.
Westcott Innovation Centre
The Westcott Innovation Centre aims to attract a broad range of high-tech companies and start-ups, helping Westcott Venture Park to become a vital future space hub for the UK.
It offers businesses the opportunity to hire specialist equipment for light mechanical engineering and rapid prototyping within its 600m² flexible facility. The building itself provides a technical workshop space supported by shared open plan office facilities, including meeting rooms, kitchen, and showers, together with outdoor amenity space.
Located at the heart of the Park’s newly formed “Space Cluster”, the Westcott Innovation Centre complements the existing portfolio of buildings at this 650-acre business park.
Olney Park Industrial Unit
Following reserved matters planning approval for the industrial site, part of a wider masterplan in Olney, Milton Keynes, GSS were appointed by Parkway Construction as Architect and Lead Designer for RIBA Stages 4 to 6.
The plot consists of an 1100m² industrial unit with a warehouse and 2-storey office element, parking, and a service yard. The warehouse has access to the offices and 2 no. loading bays out to the service yard, the office consists of kitchen/canteen spaces, open plan and cellular offices and support spaces. We used windows, curtain walling and contrasting cladding to break up the prominent elevations, in order to reduce the visual impact of the building to the surrounding site and help create active frontages.
services, specialist teams & procurement
Our work includes the full range of services covering architectural design, feasibilities, 3D graphics and animation, interior design, estate strategies, heritage and conservation, principal designer and one-stop-shop.
Our specialist in-house teams are collaborating with industry leaders to research and develop the latest technologies and processes that can be incorporated into our designs.
Professional services frameworks have become increasingly important over recent years as a method to engage construction professionals in a way that ensures compliance with the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and that promotes a more streamlined way of partnering in the longer term.
As a practice, we have secured positions on a range of established, UK-compliant frameworks, which enables easier, quicker and cheaper procurement routes for our clients.
Architectural Services Feasibilities
As experienced Chartered Architects we can work with you to explore your options, bringing a wide range of experience, innovations and best practice across different sectors to meet your specific needs and to realise your vision.This experience includes masterplanning, new builds, remodelling and extensions and specialist heritage advice.
We will work with you in a collaborative way to develop a workable brief to explore design concepts and options, to manage your project through the planning process, the development of detailed design proposals, details and specifications, together with all necessary statutory approval processes.
Feasibility studies are an extremely important part of the development process. By carefully mapping out your options, risks, constraints, and opportunities we can present creative proposals and scheme appraisals that are deliverable, viable and fit for purpose. Developing your brief is fundamental to this process.
Our highly experienced teams work on a wide variety of projects, ranging in both sector and size. This means that the knowledge, experience and ‘lessons learnt’ can be brought to benefit your feasibility brief, and our experience allows your dedicated project team to explore all the options quickly and effectively to arrive at an appropriate project delivery strategy.
Masterplanning
A good masterplan is not just about the distribution of land use, it should provide a sound starting point to create healthy communities and well-planned development strategies. A masterplan should give a carefully considered and well thought out long-term planning document that serves as a conceptual plan to guide future growth and development.
Masterplanning is all about setting the standard that creates an appropriate sense of place, connecting buildings with social, public and cultural spaces to create environments that help communities to thrive.
3D Graphics & Animation
As a streamlined part of our service offering, 3DLABS is our in-house digital design studio that specialises in CGI visualisations, 3D printing and marketing support services. They offer these services to communicate our clients designs, concepts, products or services to a wider audience, allowing them to be represented in the most visually appealing medium.
3DLABS have been offering these services for nearly a decade, gathering a diverse client base with their own unique needs and requirements.
The studio is made of a highly skilled team, led by their Studio Manager who has over 15 years of industry experience. He is supported by a team who each bring their own passions and specialisms, with photorealistic renders, interior design, graphic design to name a few.
Interior Design
In recent years, there has been an increased awareness of how the built environment can impact health and productivity, and its added benefits to help institutions flourish. Organisations are now focusing their efforts on how to use the built environment for mental health and wellbeing by encouraging choice, movement and relaxation, controlling temperature, noise levels and air quality, ergonomic furniture, plants, and adding breakout areas. These are all fundamental components of good interior design.
Our interior design services include interior layouts and drawings, internal elevations, room data sheets, space planning and interior architecture, furniture selection and accessories, custom furniture and textile design and colour palette consultation.
Estates Strategies
Estate Strategies are critically important documents to have in place to provide a framework and direction for how an estate needs to grow and evolve to support you in delivering your strategic objectives. Estate strategies are important to a number of our higher education clients for example, and we have worked with a number of UK based universities to help them define their strategies.
Good strategies can add value to other large estates such as landed estates or multi-academy trusts. Our teams have the depth of skills and experience in-house to work with you and your estates teams to consider whole estate strategies and how individual projects might fit into the ‘bigger picture.’
Heritage
If you are an owner or custodian of buildings with historical significance, we can help you to understand your properties, advise on the best techniques to care for them and make sensitive changes that will mean your heritage assets are both successful and sustainable.
Whether a Grade II listed house or a complex World Heritage Site, all heritage assets have their own story and unique value and getting the right advice from a wellqualified, specialist team can really make the difference.
Principal Designer - CDM
The importance of the Principal Designer - Construction Design and Management (CDM) role should not be underestimated and the skills that make a good Principal Designer should never be omitted from a development project. Fundamentally, a good Principal Designer helps to ensure that everyone involved in construction stays safe during the course of their work and complies with the statutory duties, and we often provide this service on schemes where we have also been appointed as Architect and/or Lead Consultant.
GSS can give you the confidence of knowing that our organisational approach to Health and Safety is led from partner level, ensuring that all our teams receive regular training, making certain that processes are in place to plan and manage health and safety throughout the project and helping to protect everyone’s health and safety.
Principal Designer - BR
The appointment of a Principal Designer – Building Regulations (BR) is required for all construction projects, from small domestic extensions to complex multimillion-pound developments. If your project is classed as a ‘Higher-Risk Building’ under the Building Safety Act 2022, then additional requirements apply.
Our Principal Designers have undergone competency assessments in line with PAS 8671 requirements and will be able to assist and guide you in navigating your legal duties under the Building Safety Act 2022. They will ensure that you fully understand your duties before any design work commences.
One Stop Shop
Successful construction projects rely on the right balance between design and project control. We can offer you a streamlined consulting service, bringing together all of the design team partners that you need from across our network of supply chain partners.
Using a one stop shop service is not right for everyone, but it can mean that you benefit from a single point of contact for your integrated design team. Our teams will use their construction knowledge and cost planning experience to offer expert advice on construction approaches and procurement options. This begins from the initial feasibility testing of a project right through until the handover of the completed building.
All successful partnerships are founded on taking a truly collaborative approach to achieving common aims and objectives. Clear communication is therefore an essential part of collaboration, alongside developing and nurturing a culture of working together as one team. GSS has a successful track record of achieving excellent outcomes through working collaboratively and we can draw on our experience and lessons learnt over the years to encourage and drive collaboration.
Sustainability
With climate change being one of the biggest challenges we face in our lifetime, we are committed to ensuring our projects are designed to incorporate innovative, sustainable solutions that not only benefit the building user, but the wider environment.
Our in-house Sustainability Innovation Group is collaborating with industry leaders to research and develop the latest technologies and sustainable processes that can be incorporated into our designs. The basic objectives of sustainability are to reduce consumption of non-renewable resources, minimise waste, and create healthy, productive environments.
Artificial Intelligence
GSS’s in-house Artificial Intelligence (AI) Innovation Group is responsible for providing comprehensive guidance and assistance, ensuring the safe and appropriate utilisation of AI within our work.
Our dedicated team from across the UK actively explores both the limitations and opportunities of AI, striving to enhance quality and efficiency. We have implemented a structured plan that is aimed at identifying opportunities through harnessing the latest advancements in AI technology, and the team will research and assess these to ensure that they align with our moral and ethical standards.
Fostering a collaborative environment, the group encourages innovation and integration of AI technologies that can add value for our clients. Their efforts include developing customised AI solutions, training for wider GSS team members, and overseeing a robust framework for AI governance.
Our in-house AI Innovation Group plays a crucial role in driving GSS’s commitment to leveraging the benefits of AI and maintaining our competitive edge in the industry.
Net Zero Carbon
Many of our clients have set Net Zero Carbon or Carbon Neutral targets for their buildings and estates through either decarbonisation of their current estate, or through targeting Net Zero Carbon in new buildings or investments.
We are also on our own route to becoming Carbon Neutral by 2030, a target which, although complex and challenging, we believe to be realistic and genuine.
Health and Wellbeing
There is an increasing awareness of how our environment can affect our physical and mental health and the impact that this has on our productivity and wellbeing. The Covid pandemic has reinforced the importance of good mental and physical health for everyone in society and there is an increased focus on the need for more human-centred, sustainable environments that support the people who work and live in them.
We understand that good design is at the centre of this and has real power to improve people’s lives and support organisations, delivering projects that support health, comfort, and happiness. The quality of environment can help to reduce staff turnover, improve outputs, and attract new people to an organisation.
Our designers are trained to look at how new and existing buildings, and external spaces, can deliver high quality places that are not only functional, adaptable, and efficient but also welcoming, inclusive and supportive.
Procurement
Professional services frameworks have become increasingly important over recent years as a method to engage construction professionals in a way that ensures compliance with the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and that promotes a more streamlined way of partnering in the longer term.
As a practice, we have secured positions on a range of established, UK-compliant frameworks, which enables easier, quicker and cheaper procurement routes for our clients. In addition to our national and regional frameworks, GSS has also secured places on a number of university frameworks across the country.
For more information on our frameworks and how you can appoint GSSArchitecture for your project, please visit our website via the below QR code:
Scan for more information on our frameworks.
Architects Lead Consultants Masterplanners
MILTON KEYNES
LONDON