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

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Appeal Success – Removing Occupancy Condition

Class Q Planning Permission

Laurence Associates – Royal Cornwall Show 2025

Penzance Business Breakfast

Permission in Principle Success in St Austell

Laurence Associates at Kernow Construction Club

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Architecture Vogue – Eyebrid

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Barn Conversion Approved West Cornwall

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Planning Permission Success for Access, Parking & Facilities

Planning Appeals Changes from April 2026

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Ana Coelho promoted to Senior Chartered Architect

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Architecture Vogue – Smallridge Bros

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Cornwall Council Housing Requirement – Laurence Associates

Planning Approval for Sauna in Protected Landscape

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Home Renovation Progress Falmouth

Planning Permission for Community Garden Redevelopment in Newquay

Planning Success in Tintagel

Architecture Vogue – Higher Harlyn

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Architecture Vogue – Greenbank Hotel

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Securing Planning Permission – Community Hall Poundstock

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Laurence Associates at Business Fest South West Westpoint

Graphisoft UK Awards 2024 – Small Project Of The Year: Under £5 Million

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Architecture Vogue – Enys Hill

Securing Five Unrestricted Homes in Mawgan Porth

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Barn Conversions Under Class Q and Class R

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Architecture Vogue – Sand Dunes

National Planning Policy Framework

Laurence Associates Returning to the Royal Cornwall Show 2026

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Architecture Vogue – Maen Valley

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Appeal Success: Caravan Site Approved in Cornwall

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Planning Permission Success for Barn Conversion

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Construction Excellence Southwest Summit 2026

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Building Regulations Drawings: Why Detail Matters

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Laurence Associates attending Kernow Construction Club

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Team Attends Michelmore’s Property Development Club in Exeter

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Replacement Dwelling in lieu of Class Q

Regen Planning Conference

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Laurence Associates Attending Townsend Landowner Seminar

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Planning Appeal Success in Cornwall National Landscape

Outline Approval for Three New Homes in St Keyne

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Replacement Dwelling Approved Following Class Q Success

Sensitive Dwelling Alterations Approved by Council

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Neighbourhood Plan Regulation Changes 2026

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Laurence Associates – Royal Cornwall Show 2024

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Appeal Success Near St Ives

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