Practice

Smith and Brooke are people-people. We’ve been building relationships for more than forty years, using collaboration to bring confidence and coherence to our work. The result is bespoke, intelligent and timeless architecture that reflects our clients’ ambitions and the potential of a place.

We’re a next-generation family business based in Clapham, London. Simon Smith and Michael Brooke set up in practice in 1983 in an empty shop in Battersea, buying, renovating and selling homes in London and beyond. There are now 13 of us and, although we now design education buildings and workplaces too, residential projects still form the core of our portfolio. The names Smith and Brooke are still above the door, connecting the fresh energy of our next-gen office with the trust, integrity and high-quality work that we’ve always been known for.

No practice can stand still, and over the decades we’ve adapted the business to suit the changing design landscape. We’re finding new ways to build and retrofit more responsibly, and we’re developing a broader, holistic service that includes furniture, interiors and landscape design. We’re also bringing fresh faces into our practice, talented young designers who share our ambition to make original, practical architecture, in partnership and without agenda.

“Good architecture can’t be measured – but when it’s right a space sings.”

Alex Brooke-Yazdi
Smith & Brooke — Practice

Building Bespoke

We’re proud of our ability to ask the right questions and, more importantly, to solve the right problems. Every brief is different so every project is bespoke, reflecting our clients’ ambitions and the potential of their place.

Smith & Brooke — Practice

Whole Architecture

Buildings are holistic projects, where everyone on the team has something to bring to the final design. Our part – the architecture – is fundamental in making spaces that can not only transform but endure and adapt in the future.

Smith & Brooke — Practice

People-People

Fundamentally, we’re people-people. We may be professional but we don’t take ourselves too seriously. We’re here for the relationships we make with our clients and collaborators, and the buildings we create together.

Smith & Brooke — Practice

Diligently Delivered

Our job is to bring you, our clients, confidence and delight, in both the live project and the finished product. Designs are delivered diligently and without agenda, using skills we’ve developed on buildings of all shapes and sizes.

Smith & Brooke — Practice

Intergenerational Practice

Born out of a family practice, we know the importance of legacy. We’ve inherited strong principles of trust, integrity and high-quality work, which we layer with new insights around sustainability and social value.

Smith & Brooke — Practice

Rise Up

Developing design talent is an integral part of our practice. We immerse new recruits in the design process from the very start, giving them responsibility in the knowledge that we learn as much from them as they do from us.

People

Our relationship-led design approach starts in the studio. Meet our team of question-asking, problem-solving creative experts.

  • Simon Smith

    Smith & Brooke — Simon Smith

    Simon Smith

    Will’s journey with the practice began in 2006 as a Part 1 Assistant. He returned full-time in 2018 after six years at Assael Architecture, where he advanced to Senior Architect. In that role, he led teams on diverse projects, including the flagship Legal & General build-to-rent development in Walthamstow.

    His architectural philosophy is rooted in a deep understanding of making and construction—a passion developed through the extensive workshops at Kingston University, following his studies at Oxford Brookes University. This hands-on approach remains central to his work.

    Since becoming a Director in 2020, Will has successfully led the teams for our Herondale Road and Alleyn Park projects. His portfolio also spans multiple sectors, having delivered projects for Northwood Schools and Cavendish Lodge Nursery. He is currently leading an exciting hotel project in Scotland.

    Simon minds about

    • Material selection
    • Woodworking joints
    • Fair weather cycling
    • Black coffee
    • Long lunches
  • Michael Brooke

    Smith & Brooke — Michael Brooke

    Michael Brooke

    Will’s journey with the practice began in 2006 as a Part 1 Assistant. He returned full-time in 2018 after six years at Assael Architecture, where he advanced to Senior Architect. In that role, he led teams on diverse projects, including the flagship Legal & General build-to-rent development in Walthamstow.

    His architectural philosophy is rooted in a deep understanding of making and construction—a passion developed through the extensive workshops at Kingston University, following his studies at Oxford Brookes University. This hands-on approach remains central to his work.

    Since becoming a Director in 2020, Will has successfully led the teams for our Herondale Road and Alleyn Park projects. His portfolio also spans multiple sectors, having delivered projects for Northwood Schools and Cavendish Lodge Nursery. He is currently leading an exciting hotel project in Scotland.

    Michael minds about

    • Material selection
    • Woodworking joints
    • Fair weather cycling
    • Black coffee
    • Long lunches
  • Lucy Brooke

    Smith & Brooke — Lucy Brooke

    Lucy Brooke

    Will’s journey with the practice began in 2006 as a Part 1 Assistant. He returned full-time in 2018 after six years at Assael Architecture, where he advanced to Senior Architect. In that role, he led teams on diverse projects, including the flagship Legal & General build-to-rent development in Walthamstow.

    His architectural philosophy is rooted in a deep understanding of making and construction—a passion developed through the extensive workshops at Kingston University, following his studies at Oxford Brookes University. This hands-on approach remains central to his work.

    Since becoming a Director in 2020, Will has successfully led the teams for our Herondale Road and Alleyn Park projects. His portfolio also spans multiple sectors, having delivered projects for Northwood Schools and Cavendish Lodge Nursery. He is currently leading an exciting hotel project in Scotland.

    Lucy minds about

    • Material selection
    • Woodworking joints
    • Fair weather cycling
    • Black coffee
    • Long lunches
  • Will Smith

    Smith & Brooke — Will Smith

    Will Smith

    Will’s journey with the practice began in 2006 as a Part 1 Assistant. He returned full-time in 2018 after six years at Assael Architecture, where he advanced to Senior Architect. In that role, he led teams on diverse projects, including the flagship Legal & General build-to-rent development in Walthamstow.

    His architectural philosophy is rooted in a deep understanding of making and construction—a passion developed through the extensive workshops at Kingston University, following his studies at Oxford Brookes University. This hands-on approach remains central to his work.

    Since becoming a Director in 2020, Will has successfully led the teams for our Herondale Road and Alleyn Park projects. His portfolio also spans multiple sectors, having delivered projects for Northwood Schools and Cavendish Lodge Nursery. He is currently leading an exciting hotel project in Scotland.

    Will minds about

    • Material selection
    • Woodworking joints
    • Fair weather cycling
    • Black coffee
    • Long lunches
  • Kate Laidlaw

    Smith & Brooke — Kate Laidlaw

    Kate Laidlaw

    Kate joined Smith and Brooke in 2020 and is the go-to person for everything beyond architecture, including finance, marketing, HR, and operations. With over 15 years of experience in the contemporary art world, her career took her across the globe, including three years in Sydney.

    After earning a History of Art degree, Kate specialised in Sales and Operations—a passion for organization that now serves her well in the family business. As part of the management team, she ensures the office runs smoothly and the team has everything they need to thrive.

    Kate minds about

    • Team meetings
    • Well-stocked office snacks
    • Tidy desks
    • Muddy bootcamps
    • Sleep
  • Alex Brooke Yazdi

    Smith & Brooke — Alex Brooke Yazdi

    Alex Brooke Yazdi

    Alexandra combines a client-centred design approach with a deep appreciation for materiality, shaped by her early training in Silversmithing and Metalwork at UAL. After completing her architectural studies at Cardiff University and UCL, she joined Hawkins\Brown, contributing to the design and delivery of a RIBA award-winning research building for the University of Exeter, alongside other education sector projects. She later moved into residential architecture as Project Architect for the redevelopment of the Peabody Estate at St John’s Hill, Clapham.
     
    Prior to joining Smith and Brooke, Alexandra honed her skills and expertise in bespoke, high-end residential architecture at the design-led firm Fraher Architects, completing a number of beautiful homes across London. Passionate about both contemporary and classical architecture, she brings craft, clarity, and collaboration to every project.

    Alex minds about

    • Cultural relics on holiday
    • Long distance running
    • Brick detailing
    • Sunday Roasts
    • Kitchen disco
  • Annette Schmidt

    Smith & Brooke — Annette Schmidt

    Annette Schmidt

    Will’s journey with the practice began in 2006 as a Part 1 Assistant. He returned full-time in 2018 after six years at Assael Architecture, where he advanced to Senior Architect. In that role, he led teams on diverse projects, including the flagship Legal & General build-to-rent development in Walthamstow.

    His architectural philosophy is rooted in a deep understanding of making and construction—a passion developed through the extensive workshops at Kingston University, following his studies at Oxford Brookes University. This hands-on approach remains central to his work.

    Since becoming a Director in 2020, Will has successfully led the teams for our Herondale Road and Alleyn Park projects. His portfolio also spans multiple sectors, having delivered projects for Northwood Schools and Cavendish Lodge Nursery. He is currently leading an exciting hotel project in Scotland.

    Annette minds about

    • Material selection
    • Woodworking joints
    • Fair weather cycling
    • Black coffee
    • Long lunches
  • Khalim Maudarbocus

    Smith & Brooke — Khalim Maudarbocus

    Khalim Maudarbocus

    Khalim has been a valued member of Smith & Brooke since 2007, first joining the practice during his architectural studies and later qualifying as an architect in 2011. With broad experience in both large-scale commercial and residential developments, he plays an integral role in delivering thoughtful, design-led commercial and residential projects for the firm.

    He works closely with one of Smith and Brooke’s long-standing clients, Marldon, contributing to several significant London schemes. His work includes the Rockwell East Aparthotel, a collection of 95 serviced apartments across Prescot Street and Chamber Street, creating a striking and cohesive corner near Tower Bridge and supporting the area’s ongoing revitalisation. Khalim is also currently involved in the redevelopment of an unused office building into a 50-room hotel in the City of London, transforming the space into a vibrant and functional destination.

    Khalim minds about

    • Creating spaces where people feel comfortable and inspired
    • Mixing clever design with everyday practicality
    • Maximising value through thoughtful design
    • Buildings that are kind to people and the planet
  • Hazel Cozens

    Smith & Brooke — Hazel Cozens

    Hazel Cozens

    Will’s journey with the practice began in 2006 as a Part 1 Assistant. He returned full-time in 2018 after six years at Assael Architecture, where he advanced to Senior Architect. In that role, he led teams on diverse projects, including the flagship Legal & General build-to-rent development in Walthamstow.

    His architectural philosophy is rooted in a deep understanding of making and construction—a passion developed through the extensive workshops at Kingston University, following his studies at Oxford Brookes University. This hands-on approach remains central to his work.

    Since becoming a Director in 2020, Will has successfully led the teams for our Herondale Road and Alleyn Park projects. His portfolio also spans multiple sectors, having delivered projects for Northwood Schools and Cavendish Lodge Nursery. He is currently leading an exciting hotel project in Scotland.

    Hazel minds about

    • Material selection
    • Woodworking joints
    • Fair weather cycling
    • Black coffee
    • Long lunches
  • Dilan Torbator

    Smith & Brooke — Dilan Torbator

    Dilan Torbator

    Will’s journey with the practice began in 2006 as a Part 1 Assistant. He returned full-time in 2018 after six years at Assael Architecture, where he advanced to Senior Architect. In that role, he led teams on diverse projects, including the flagship Legal & General build-to-rent development in Walthamstow.

    His architectural philosophy is rooted in a deep understanding of making and construction—a passion developed through the extensive workshops at Kingston University, following his studies at Oxford Brookes University. This hands-on approach remains central to his work.

    Since becoming a Director in 2020, Will has successfully led the teams for our Herondale Road and Alleyn Park projects. His portfolio also spans multiple sectors, having delivered projects for Northwood Schools and Cavendish Lodge Nursery. He is currently leading an exciting hotel project in Scotland.

    Dilan minds about

    • Material selection
    • Woodworking joints
    • Fair weather cycling
    • Black coffee
    • Long lunches
  • Harry Rowe

    Smith & Brooke — Harry Rowe

    Harry Rowe

    Will’s journey with the practice began in 2006 as a Part 1 Assistant. He returned full-time in 2018 after six years at Assael Architecture, where he advanced to Senior Architect. In that role, he led teams on diverse projects, including the flagship Legal & General build-to-rent development in Walthamstow.

    His architectural philosophy is rooted in a deep understanding of making and construction—a passion developed through the extensive workshops at Kingston University, following his studies at Oxford Brookes University. This hands-on approach remains central to his work.

    Since becoming a Director in 2020, Will has successfully led the teams for our Herondale Road and Alleyn Park projects. His portfolio also spans multiple sectors, having delivered projects for Northwood Schools and Cavendish Lodge Nursery. He is currently leading an exciting hotel project in Scotland.

    Harry minds about

    • Material selection
    • Woodworking joints
    • Fair weather cycling
    • Black coffee
    • Long lunches
  • Emilia Burdett

    Smith & Brooke — Emilia Burdett

    Emilia Burdett

    Emilia completed her Part I in Architecture at Newcastle University and has since gained experience in both architecture and interior design studios in London and Australia. She has a particular interest in the adaptive reuse of existing and historic buildings and enjoys exploring how interior design can enrich architectural projects. At university, she worked on an education and community scheme involving the reuse of a Grade II listed warehouse, and in practice has contributed to residential and cultural projects.
     
    At Smith and Brooke, Emilia is keen to develop her understanding across all project stages and gain hands-on experience on site. Outside the office, she enjoys drawing, photography, and pottery.

    Emilia minds about

    • Mid-century design
    • Her digital camera
    • City and nature walks
    • Joinery details
    • Weekend markets
  • Maria Murray

    Smith & Brooke — Maria Murray

    Maria Murray

    Will’s journey with the practice began in 2006 as a Part 1 Assistant. He returned full-time in 2018 after six years at Assael Architecture, where he advanced to Senior Architect. In that role, he led teams on diverse projects, including the flagship Legal & General build-to-rent development in Walthamstow.

    His architectural philosophy is rooted in a deep understanding of making and construction—a passion developed through the extensive workshops at Kingston University, following his studies at Oxford Brookes University. This hands-on approach remains central to his work.

    Since becoming a Director in 2020, Will has successfully led the teams for our Herondale Road and Alleyn Park projects. His portfolio also spans multiple sectors, having delivered projects for Northwood Schools and Cavendish Lodge Nursery. He is currently leading an exciting hotel project in Scotland.

    Maria minds about

    • Material selection
    • Woodworking joints
    • Fair weather cycling
    • Black coffee
    • Long lunches