Mark James - Design Director & RIBA Chartered Practice Status

Mark James, a Chartered Architect, has recently joined the Practice as Design Director.

Mark has over a decade of local experience, primarily focused on residential architecture. Mark’s portfolio spans single-family homes, larger housing developments, conversions, and extensions, alongside work on commercial and mixed-use schemes.

We are also pleased to continue the RIBA Chartered Practice Status in addition to our chartered status with the RTPI and CIAT.

After graduating from Birmingham City University in 2014, Mark returned to Cornwall, where he has successfully led numerous projects from concept to completion.

Mark’s strong technical background enables him to provide expert guidance on construction methods and detailing, ensuring the highest standards of quality throughout both the design and construction process. His collaborative approach fosters effective communication among clients, consultants, and contractors, resulting in the successful achievement of project goals.

Dedicated to staying ahead of industry trends, materials, and technologies, Mark integrates innovative design solutions that enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. He is also committed to mentoring his team, fostering a culture of continuous learning and promoting best practices in design and project delivery.

Mark said, “I’m excited to join the team at Laurence Associates, and contribute my experience to the existing studio’s strengths. I look forward to supporting the talented design team to deliver a diverse range of projects, working closely with our expert in house planning and landscape teams. Together, we will continue to deliver innovative spaces that truly connect with the inspiring Cornish landscapes we live and work in”.

Jason Pledger said, “We are delighted to welcome Mark as the new Design Director at Laurence Associates. Mark has a wealth of experience across a wide range of sectors, especially the residential sector, which will provide excellent strength to the planning process and his strong technical knowledge and experience will provide guidance to the technical team. Mark has excellent leadership skills, and we are all very excited to see how he develops and shapes the studio in the future”.

All posts

Change of Use Approved: Takeaway to Residential in Cornwall

Contemporary Roof Extension in Cornwall | Sustainable Residential Design

Final Days at the Devon County Show for Laurence Associates

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Powering the Future: Repowering Wind Turbines Across the UK

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Neighbourhood Plan Regulation Changes 2026

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Appeal Success – Removing Occupancy Condition

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Laurence Associates prepares for Royal Cornwall Show 2026

Laurence Associates attending Kernow Construction Club

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Laurence Associates – Royal Cornwall Show 2025

Property Development Forum

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Architecture Vogue – Higher Harlyn

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Architecture Vogue – Eyebrid

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Non-Material Amendment Success

Class Q Planning Permission

Laurence Associates to Attend Business Fest

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Laurence Associates Returning to the Royal Cornwall Show 2026

Rural Outbuilding Conversion Secures Planning Consent

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Replacement Dwelling in lieu of Class Q

National Planning Policy Framework

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Planning Appeal Success to Building Regulations Approval

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Cornwall Building Regulations Update Event 2026

Team Attends Michelmore’s Property Development Club in Exeter

Home Renovation Progress Falmouth

Sensitive Dwelling Alterations Approved by Council

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Attending Women in Business Breakfast at Truro Golf Club

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Barn Conversions Under Class Q and Class R

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Planning Appeals Changes from April 2026

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Securing Five Unrestricted Homes in Mawgan Porth

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Four Dwellings Approved Following Outline Consent

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Planning Appeal Success for Permission in Principle Scheme

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Coastal Home Design in Devon & Cornwall

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Permission in Principle Secured for 4 to 9 Dwellings in North Hill

Planning Approved for 5 Unrestricted Rural Homes

Laurence Associates at Kernow Construction Club

Outline Approval for Three New Homes in St Keyne

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Laurence Associates Attending Ashfords Business Breakfast

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Laurence Associates Attending Stithians Show 2026

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Laurence Associates – Royal Cornwall Show 2024

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Ana Coelho promoted to Senior Chartered Architect

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