About
Above Studio is an architecture practice based in Leyton, East London. We specialise in works to period properties, focusing on retaining and restoring the traditional character and introducing elements of thoughtful modern design. Our approach focuses on the importance of understanding how people live in and use spaces to arrive at successful designs.
We understand that home improvement can seem a daunting task. Our network of experienced engineers, surveyors and trades people can cover every aspect of a project making the process as hassle free for clients as possible. For each project we tailor the services we offer which ultimately results in value for money and successful projects for our clients.
It is also important to us that architecture should always be fun and we always attempt to integrate elements of play, no matter how small, into each and every design.
People
Arun Parkash
Director, ARB Registered Architect
Arun has worked at a number of internationally recognised London based firms including AHMM and Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios. Whilst at these practices he has worked on a range of schemes which have varied in scale and sector. These have included a number of commercial and residential schemes across the UK and notably the restoration of a large post industrial area of Leeds.
Whilst working full time in central London Arun has always pursued residential projects in his spare time. This led to the creation of Above Studio in 2018. Since then he has completed a number of extensions, internal re-configurations and refurbishments across the South East of the UK. Arun has recently secured the design of a Passivhaus new build detached home in St. Albans which is a very exciting milestone for the studio.
Arun is very practical and loves DIY. He restored his own Victorian Abrahams flat and in his spare time travels London helping his friends with DIY jobs they need help with. He believes that the lessons he has learnt from DIY translates directly into a deeper understanding on how builders work and build many of the details we use in our designs.
Nial Parkash
Sustainability Consultant
Nial graduated from Newcastle University School of Architecture in 2017. He began his career in a Specialist Conservation Architect's office, which took on projects that involved listed and sensitive buildings. A project of note during Nial's time in this office was the change of use of a Grade I listed mansion house set in grounds in the Hertfordshire countryside. The project involved its conversion from a residential property to a commercial wedding venue. The application involved intensive conversations with multiple bodies such as Historic England.
Nial then moved to a leading London-based residential Design & Build company, which specialised in the completion of residential extensions. He guided clients through the design, planning and building regulation stages, before handing the project onto the construction arm of the company. During his time here Nial worked on over 40 projects, gaining a strong understanding of the residential processes.
Alarmed by the impact that the construction industry continues to have on the environment, Nial has complete a Masters degree in Sustainability and Adaptation in the Built Environment. Now a specialist in environmental measures that can be implemented on schemes of all scales he aims to bring sustainable concepts into his ongoing design work.
Why choose us?
We believe that good architecture should be accessible to anyone. There is a misconception that engaging an architect to design and manage works to your home leads to spiralling costs.
We pride ourselves on being able to work to a realistic budget as ultimately this is one of the key skills of a good architect. Through our experience we have built a catalogue of cost effective details and 'tricks' that can help give you home a premium, individual and modern look at very little additional cost.
We understand the appeal of going to an going direct to an 'all-in-one' firm for cost and convenience. For certain projects these firms can be a good option but, when you wish to achieve anything other than a 'standard' finish an architect comes into their own. We have an established network of engineers, surveyors and builders in the East London area and aim to make the process of renovating or extending as smooth and enjoyable as possible.