About

Approach

John Comparelli is an award winning architect working in the South West of England.

Every project I take on has a unique context, history and set of problems and the solutions will necessarily be bespoke and appropriate. Projects in Wiltshire tend to be the reconfiguring, converting or extending Listed Buildings. Other works include designing new homes, guesthouses, commercial space and educational building. All my projects strive for zero carbon in use.

Architectural delight is integral to my designs and results from responding particularly to brief, site, program and structural needs. I believe that specific response to Commodity and Firmness will give Delight.

Comparelli Architect - Approach - Relief Model of Vitra Fire Station for Zaha

Comparelli Architect - Approach - Minstrels Gallery Wardour

I also believe all buildings lie between the ‘Opaque’ (important public space) or the ‘Transparent’ (unassuming terrace house) and to find the right point within that spectrum is a key. My insertions will be appropriate and range from invisible repairs to confident and contemporary designs.

Most projects are taken through from concept design to completion but other partial services are available. I have a long and good relationship with local planners and building control and happily navigate projects through the hazards of Listed Building Consent, Conservation Areas and AONB. I enjoy the dialogue with clients and the collaboration with local contractors, engineers and other consultants. My projects enhance their context and bring joy to their owners.

About me

I made ski films and worked off the west coast of Canada through a first degree at the University of British Columbia (BA in art history), left Vancouver in 1984 for the Architectural Association (AA Diploma) and worked with Ian Ritchie and Zaha Hadid during my time in London. I became a registered architect in 1993, set up an architectural practise and started teaching at the AA and the University of East London. In 2000 I joined UWE and in 2006 completed a master’s degree at the University of Bath in the conservation of historic buildings. I live in Tisbury, SW Wiltshire with my interior designer wife Lucy Elworthy.