Architects J G P

David Joy Architect - An Introduction

At David Joy Architect, we are a Cambridge-based architectural practice committed to the creation and promotion of a well-designed built environment. Since our formation in 1986, we have worked on a variety of projects, including housing, commercial, ecclesiastical, educational buildings, and building refurbishment, including listed buildings and historic churches.

Our aim is to produce buildings that are not only practical solutions to the design problems posed by our clients, but also solutions that are aesthetically pleasing and complement their surroundings. This is achieved through careful attention to detail and the preparation of clear, precise, and detailed working drawings. Our approach to our work can be summed up in the words: "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might."

Church Projects

Our practice has a wealth of experience in church projects, including the renovation and extension of historic churches. We understand the importance of maintaining the integrity and character of these buildings while meeting the changing needs of the community. Our team has worked on several notable church projects, including St Mary's Buckden, St Andrew's Girton, St Andrew's Histon, All Saints Milton, and Haddenham Baptist Church.

St Mary's Buckden, for example, was a project that had been the subject of much debate and controversy for over a decade before we became involved in 1998. The site for the proposed extension was particularly challenging, both physically and historically, due to its long and thin shape and the presence of enormous 18th-century brick buttresses. Additionally, the building is Grade I Listed and adjacent to a Scheduled Historic Monument (Buckden Towers). Our team was selected from a group of four practices invited to present ideas for breaking the impasse that had been reached in the project's development. We successfully removed the brick buttresses, freeing up the space and allowing for the creation of a linear corridor along the North wall with smaller spaces off it and the larger spaces at either end. Level access from the church was achieved by reopening the old north doorway which had been blocked. Despite the numerous contrary views voiced by the seven consultee bodies, we were able to see the project through to completion.

Domestic Projects

In addition to our church projects, we have also worked on a variety of domestic projects, including new builds, extensions, and renovations. Our approach to these projects is the same as with our church projects - we aim to create buildings that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and complementary to their surroundings. We have worked on several notable domestic projects, including Cambridge Project 1, Cambridge Project 2, Cambridge Project 3, and Devon Project 1.

Educational Projects

We have also had the opportunity to work on several educational projects, including the Whipple Library, Whipple Museum, University of Cambridge Department of Genetics Institute, and other educational facilities. These projects require a deep understanding of the specific needs of the educational environment and the ability to create spaces that are conducive to learning and collaboration.

Other Projects

In addition to our work in these areas, we have also been involved in other projects, including commercial developments and the refurbishment of historic buildings. Our team is committed to providing high-quality design solutions that meet the needs of our clients and enhance the built environment.

About David Joy

David Joy is a Cambridge-based architect who founded the practice in 1986. With a wealth of experience in a variety of fields, including housing, commercial, ecclesiastical, educational buildings, and building refurbishment, David is committed to the promotion and enjoyment of a well-designed built environment. His approach to his work is summed up in the words: "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might."