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

Grid Connection Reform and what it means for Renewable Energy Projects

Vickery Holman Market Review

Laurence Associates Attending Townsend Landowner Seminar

Adaptive Reuse Architecture | Blending Heritage with Modern Design

Certificate of Lawfulness Secured for Residential Caravan Use

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Planning Permission Success for Barn Conversion

Laurence Associates – Royal Cornwall Show 2025

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Laurence Associates at Stithians Show 2026

Barn Conversion Approved West Cornwall

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Planning Appeal Success for Equestrian Building

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Sensitive Design Approach for Barn Conversion Window Proposal

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Tom Evans Promoted to Junior Planner

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Attending Women in Business Breakfast at Truro Golf Club

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Laurence Associates Attends Cornwall Council Planning Agents Forum

Replacement Dwelling in lieu of Class Q

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Laurence Associates at Stithians Show 2026

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Laurence Associates – Royal Cornwall Show 2024

Construction Excellence Southwest Summit 2026

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Regen Planning Conference

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Laurence Associates at Business Fest South West Westpoint

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Laurence Associates Welcomes New Design Director

Planning Appeal Success for Permission in Principle Scheme

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CESW Summit 2026

Laurence Associates to Exhibit at Devon County Show 2026

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Outline Planning Consent for Hotel and Restaurant Development in Cornwall

Laurence Associates Attending Ashfords Business Breakfast

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Planning Appeal Success in Cornwall National Landscape

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Laurence Associates Attending Stithians Show 2026

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Laurence Associates at Stithians Show 2026 Architecture and Planning Support

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Class Q Planning Permission

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Design Appraisals UK | Site Feasibility and Planning Assessments

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Property Development Forum

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Non-Material Amendment Success

Laurence Associates attending Kernow Construction Club

Cornish Replacement Dwelling Submitted for Building Regulations

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Permission in Principle Secured for Six New Dwellings in Redruth

The Experts

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National Planning Policy Framework

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Team Attends Michelmore’s Property Development Club in Exeter

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