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

Planning Permission Success for Access, Parking & Facilities

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

Replacement Dwelling in lieu of Class Q

Planning Appeal Success in Cornwall National Landscape

Laurence Associates Attending Townsend Landowner Seminar

Appeal Success Near St Ives

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Laurence Associates attending Kernow Construction Club

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Best of Houzz 2017 Design Award

Architecture Vogue – Higher Harlyn

Replacement Dwelling Approved Following Class Q Success

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Current Vacancies – Senior Landscape Architect

Architecture Vogue – Eyebrid

Architecture Vogue – Sand Dunes

Outline Planning Consent Secured for Two New Dwellings

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Why Involve Landscape Architects in Biodiversity Net Gain Proposals

Housing Appeal Success in West Cornwall

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Planning Approval for Sauna in Protected Landscape

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

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Business Cornwall – March 2026

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Securing Planning Permission – Community Hall Poundstock

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Laurence Associates at Kernow Construction Club

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Planning Committee Success: Replacement Dwelling Approved

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Planning Permission Success for Barn Conversion

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CESW Summit 2026

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Design Appraisals UK | Site Feasibility and Planning Assessments

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Appeal Success – Removing Occupancy Condition

Barn Conversion Approved West Cornwall

Home Renovation Progress Falmouth

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Architecture Vogue – Enys Hill

Planning Approved for 5 Unrestricted Rural Homes

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Laurence Associates – Royal Cornwall Show 2024

Class Q Planning Permission

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