Oak-frame architect profile Bowen Dann Knox Architects

The practice was founded in 1971. Whilst it has undertaken a variety of work throughout the UK, its roots and the majority of its projects are in north Wales, responding to clients’ needs and the local environment.

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The range and scale of work carried out by the practice was initially of the varied kind to be expected in an area covering north Wales. From the limited range of building types, frequently relatively modest in size, a consistent design approach developed that was influenced by both the techniques and quality of vernacular building. Simplicity of form, a limited range of materials and sympathetic siting of buildings in relation to weather and orientation became key factors.

Bowen Dann Knox Architects felt strongly that the quality of the Welsh landscape and its relatively severe climate has deserved architectural solutions that continue to have a sound local context. Increasingly, this straightforward approach has proved to be appropriate for client and society alike and awards for practical buildings, often in sensitive settings, are indicative of this wider support.

The growth of the practice over the years, with larger commissions, more commercial clients and more frequent sites in urban settings, has led to the development and continuous reappraisal of the Bowen Dann Knox Architects’ approach to design. But the practice’s basic concerns for quality and purpose remain.

This had led to a quite natural progression in line with current trends in relation to sustainable issues and associated legislation. Bowen Dann Knox is quite familiar with the required standards, and is producing buildings that achieve high ratings under the Code for Sustainable Homes, and BREEAM criteria. The practice’s smaller scale residential work includes house alterations, conversion of redundant farm buildings for residential use, one-off bespoke houses and small- to medium-sized housing developments.

contact information

Bowen Dann Knox Architects

20 Wynnstay Road
Colwyn Bay
Conwy
LL29 8NF

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More information

  • Member of
  • Awards
    • RIBA Award : Cefndy Hostel, Cefndy Road, Rhyl 1976
    • 6 RIBA Commendations
    • Eisteddfod Gold Medals : Hostel, Cefndy Road, Rhyl 1977; Hafan Elan, Llanrug 1982; Capel y Groes, Wrexham 1984; Plas Menai, National Sailing Centre 1985
    • Europa Nostra Diplomas : Bodysgallen Hall Hotel 1983; Plas Menai, National Sailing Centre 1984
    • Welsh Office Housing Medals Housing: Llansannan 1973; Trinity Court, Rhyl 1979; Hafan Elan, Llanrug 1980; High Pastures, Mochdre 1980; Sychnant Park II, Conwy 1983; Plas Gorffwysfa, Prestatyn 1983; Maes y Coed, Deganwy 1985; 8 Commendations
    • Civic Trust Awards : Bodysgallen Hall Hotel 1984; Plas Menai, National Sailing Centre 1984
    • Special 25 years CADW award: Bodysgallen Hall Hotel 2009
    • 6 Civic Trust Commendations