about the company
get in touch with usAt Idea Architectural Technology, we bring over 25 years of expertise in delivering innovative and practical architectural design solutions. Our portfolio spans residential extensions and bespoke new dwellings, housing developments, commercial properties, swimming pool complexes, and projects within the education and sports sectors, with build sizes ranging from £50k to £10m.
We have extensive knowledge of local and national planning guidelines, including permitted development, listed buildings, green belt sites, and complex planning procedures. Our understanding of building control regulations ensures that every project meets the highest standards of compliance and quality.
A Collaborative, Technology-Driven Approach
We believe the best architectural solutions come from an interactive design process. To bring your vision to life, we continuously invest in cutting-edge technology, offering detailed 3D CGI visualisations as standard—not just 2D plans and elevations. This allows you to fully explore and refine your project before submitting a planning application or prior to the commencement of construction.
Expert Planning Support
Navigating the planning process can be complex, which is why we take a tailored approach to each project. For straightforward applications, we manage the entire process in-house—submitting planning applications, monitoring their progress, and working directly with the allocated planning officer at the Local Planning Authority.
For more complex projects, such as those involving listed buildings, open countryside sites, or challenging planning constraints, we partner with a highly experienced planning consultancy local to us. Their expertise in planning policies, permitted development, and appeals ensures that even the most intricate applications progress as smoothly as possible, helping to maximise the potential of every project.
Serving Clients Across England and Wales
Our office, located in a barn conversion complex on the outskirts of Northampton, provides a creative and inspiring workspace. From here, we proudly serve clients across England and Wales, delivering designs that are both visionary and practical.
Let’s discuss how we can bring your project to life. Get in touch today.
joby simson
Senior Architectural Technologist ACIAT & Company Director
Architecture has been my passion for as long as I can remember. As a child, I explored my creativity through Lego and spent hours sketching designs on my very own drawing board from the age of eight.
Over the past 25 years, I have worked in large architectural practices, gaining experience across diverse sectors—including universities, sports centres, healthcare, housing developments, schools, ecclesiastical buildings, and residential extensions. Managing design teams from concept to completion, I developed a deep understanding of both the creative and technical aspects of architecture.
I founded Idea Architectural Technology more than 15 ago to bring that expertise to developers, contractors, and homeowners. My approach balances strong design aesthetics with meticulous technical detail, ensuring that every project is not only visually striking but also practical and buildable.
I have a passion for creating architecturally outstanding solutions that meet commercial and budgetary constraints. I believe that great design doesn’t have to be compromised by financial limitations—an extension, a new home, or a large-scale development can be both cost-effective and exceptional.
I thrive on the challenge of complex sites, finding solutions where others see obstacles. My love for period properties also shapes my work—I see owners as custodians of history and take pride in designing schemes that celebrate the contrast between old and new, blending modern materials and techniques with respect for heritage.
At Idea Architectural Technology, we don’t just design buildings—we create spaces that work beautifully, functionally, and commercially.
Honey Simson
Company Director
With over 20 years of experience in design and project management, I bring a strategic and detail-oriented approach to Idea Architectural Technology. My background in product design and leadership—managing a team of 20+ designers in the food packaging industry—has given me a deep understanding of efficiency, budgets, and delivering high-quality results under tight deadlines.
I have a degree in Furniture and Product Design from Leeds Metropolitan University, and my design philosophy is rooted in simplicity, functionality, and precision. I believe that great design is not just about aesthetics—it’s about creating practical solutions that enhance both usability and impact.
At Idea Architectural Technology, I focus on ensuring our projects run seamlessly, balancing creativity with commercial viability. From overseeing client relationships to managing project timelines and budgets, my goal is to make the process as smooth and efficient as possible while delivering outstanding architectural solutions.
I have a passion for geometric and structured design, influenced by the graphical qualities of Toulouse-Lautrec’s posters, the elegance of the Art Deco era, and the timeless work of Charles and Ray Eames. This appreciation for design detail carries through in everything we do—helping to create spaces that are both inspiring and functional.
Jamie Collingwood
Junior Architectural Technologist
Jamie graduated from Nottingham Trent University in 2023 with a degree in Architectural Technology, following an initial interest in architecture while studying Construction Management at Moulton College. During his studies, he completed a year-long placement, gaining hands-on experience in both residential and commercial projects.
Now part of the Idea Architectural Technology team, Jamie is eager to develop his expertise further, applying his technical skills and fresh perspective to deliver high-quality, practical design solutions. His enthusiasm for architecture and commitment to continuous learning make him a valuable part of our growing practice.
