A'Bear & Ball Architects LLP

A'Bear & Ball Architects LLP a’bear & ball architects are committed to a high quality contemporary design approach that is cont

a’bear & ball architects are committed to a high quality contemporary design approach that is contextual, practical, sustainable and inspirational. We strive to add value, not just financially, but also to people's quality of life by creating wonderful living spaces.

We are pleased to share the completion of the Calcot project — a full refurbishment and extension of a previously dilapi...
11/06/2026

We are pleased to share the completion of the Calcot project — a full refurbishment and extension of a previously dilapidated bungalow in a desirable part of Oxford.

The existing property has been completely transformed through a combination of internal reconfiguration, two extensions, new dormers, and a loft conversion, creating a generous and well-appointed family home. The external works also included a redesigned garden, new hard landscaping, and an extensive natural stone boundary wall with copings, helping to re-establish the property within its setting.

Delivered as a full service from Initial Brief through to completion, the project required careful coordination and ongoing dialogue between all parties to keep the design intent on track and ensure a successful outcome on site.

As with many residential projects, clear communication and a collaborative approach were essential throughout the process, particularly where multiple stakeholders were involved.

A particular mention must go to the contractor, , whose workmanship and attention to detail were excellent and played a key role in the quality of the finished build.

It is always rewarding to see a previously tired property completely reimagined into a spacious, high-quality home that works for modern family life.

Meet the Team - CraigFrom sketching houses on his dad’s drawing board as a kid to creating fully immersive 3D models tod...
10/06/2026

Meet the Team - Craig

From sketching houses on his dad’s drawing board as a kid to creating fully immersive 3D models today — Craig’s always had an interest in design.

He still enjoys the hands-on design process, whether that’s quick sketches or developing detailed models that clients can explore in VR.

Craig is fan of Frank Lloyd Wright and Fallingwater brings back memories for him of studying this building at architecture school in Manchester.

Outside the studio, you’ll find him at Swindon Town (through the ups and downs) or cooking with his two daughters.

Combe Barn is a substantial barn conversion project near South Cerney, Gloucestershire. The scheme involved the conversi...
28/05/2026

Combe Barn is a substantial barn conversion project near South Cerney, Gloucestershire.

The scheme involved the conversion of two sizeable modern portal-framed barns into a single bespoke countryside residence. The principal barn provides the main living accommodation, with the secondary barn forming ancillary annex accommodation, alongside a modest pool building and outdoor swimming pool set within a newly landscaped courtyard.

We are heading back in the next couple of weeks for the final rectification period inspection, it's hard to believe it’s already been 12 months since this project was completed on site. Looking forward to seeing it again.

It’s great to see one of our latest projects at Graven Hill, Bicester progressing well on site.Graven Hill continues to ...
15/05/2026

It’s great to see one of our latest projects at Graven Hill, Bicester progressing well on site.

Graven Hill continues to be a unique and ambitious development, championing custom and self‑build homes within a carefully planned framework. Being involved in a project of this nature allows us to respond to individual client aspirations while contributing to the wider vision of a high-quality, sustainable community.

This project utilises a sustainable timber frame with high levels of insulation, MVHR system, and photovoltaic panels ensure high energy efficiency, extremely minimal running costs and long-term performance.

A great example that design doesn’t have to be restricted with ‘off-site’ construction methods and how this can help self-builders bring their dream homes to life.

It’s rewarding to see the design move from drawings to reality. We’re looking forward to the next phases of construction and sharing further updates as the project develops.

16/04/2026

In rural settings, reusing existing buildings allows development to sit more naturally within the landscape, preserving both character and context while meeting modern needs.

Cleveland Barns is set at the foot of White Horse Hill in Oxfordshire. A series of redundant agricultural barns is now four high-quality homes. Retaining the original steel portal frames and distinctive curved roofs preserves the site’s agricultural identity, while timber cladding and standing seam metal introduces a contemporary yet contextually sensitive finish.

The wider scheme incorporates considered landscaping, infrastructure, and close collaboration with specialist consultants, ensuring the development feels cohesive and fully integrated into its surroundings.

Reusing existing buildings is one of the most sustainable ways to create new homes - reducing waste, preserving embodied carbon, and giving new life to structures that already belong to their landscape.

We asked Craig how he was settling in now he has been with us for a while:‘I am settling in well now being towards the e...
14/04/2026

We asked Craig how he was settling in now he has been with us for a while:

‘I am settling in well now being towards the end of my first month at the practice, everybody has given me a warm welcome so far and have always been available for help & support with any queries that I have.

I have been using these first few weeks to get to grips with Vectorworks and have initially been assisting Duncan on the working drawing package for a residential D&B scheme of 30+ units. It’s been interesting to work on a new project, learn new software and understand how the practice operates on a day-day basis.

I look forward to contributing more across the wide range of projects within the office in the coming months.’

Whitehouse Farm, Oxfordshire - a contemporary farmhouse on The Ridgeway near Wantage, inspired by traditional barns and ...
07/04/2026

Whitehouse Farm, Oxfordshire - a contemporary farmhouse on The Ridgeway near Wantage, inspired by traditional barns and designed to sit gently within the North Wessex Downs AONB.

Glass, natural materials, sedum roofs and carefully considered views combine to create a modern, low-carbon home with character.

Proud to have taken this project from planning to completion - and to see it shortlisted at the 2022 Build It Awards

This week Katie New celebrates 4 years at the practice. As one of our brilliant Architectural Technologists, she brings ...
02/04/2026

This week Katie New celebrates 4 years at the practice.

As one of our brilliant Architectural Technologists, she brings creativity, care, and a genuine passion for design to every project along the way.

Thank you Katie - here's to many more years

Chapel House is a sensitive refurbishment and extension of a former Methodist chapel (1882) in Littleworth, Oxfordshire....
30/03/2026

Chapel House is a sensitive refurbishment and extension of a former Methodist chapel (1882) in Littleworth, Oxfordshire.

The project involved removing poor-quality later additions, carefully restoring the historic fabric, and introducing a contemporary 82m² extension clad in cedar and metal.

Through considered massing and rooflines, the new form reflects the original chapel, reintroducing symmetry while clearly expressing its modern character.

We were named the best Architect or Designer for a Renovation or Extension project at the 2020 Build IT awards for our work on Chapel House.

Duncan Pritchard joined us in 2020, as a part of our meet the team series we asked Duncan his favourite building in the ...
13/11/2025

Duncan Pritchard joined us in 2020, as a part of our meet the team series we asked Duncan his favourite building in the world & why?

"Dokk1 in Aarhus, Denmark. It’s an incredible example of civic architecture - a library that isn’t just a place for books, but a cultural hub for the whole city. I admire how open, welcoming, and adaptable it is, and how it blurs the line between public space and architecture. I have fond memories of visiting Dokk1 with my son Theo whilst on Paternity leave in Aarhus."

What's your favourite building?

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Unit 4, Michaels Court, New House Farm, Southmoor
Abingdon
OX135HR

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Monday 8am - 6pm
Tuesday 8am - 6pm
Wednesday 8am - 6pm
Thursday 8am - 6pm
Friday 8am - 6pm

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