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.

In our Material Matter series we are looking at staircases which are often seen simply as a means of moving between floo...
10/09/2026

In our Material Matter series we are looking at staircases which are often seen simply as a means of moving between floors, but they can also play an important role in shaping how a building is experienced.

At Kingsgrove Community Hub, a feature spiral staircase, which was fabricated off-site by BRADFABS, is a focal point within the entrance foyer. Beyond connecting levels, it will help visitors navigate the building while creating a strong architectural statement at the heart of the space.

When designing staircases, we consider:

✅ Movement and circulation
✅ Light and space
✅ Materials and detailing
✅ Accessibility and Building Regulations
✅ The overall architectural vision

The most successful staircases combine functionality with design intent, becoming an integral part of the building rather than simply a means of access.

🌀🏗️📐

We're thrilled to announce that Combe Barn has won Best Conversion to a Single New Home at the LABC Building Excellence ...
07/09/2026

We're thrilled to announce that Combe Barn has won Best Conversion to a Single New Home at the LABC Building Excellence Awards 2026 – West of England Region. 🎉

This project transformed two former agricultural buildings into a contemporary family home, combining traditional Cotswold stone with modern materials and low-carbon technologies.

A huge thank you to everyone involved, especially PJE Building Contractors, Cotswold District Council Building Control, and our fantastic clients.

And the exciting news doesn't stop there...

✅ We're now through to the LABC Grand Finals 2026!

Continuing our Materials Matter series with render, which is often associated with clean, contemporary architecture, but...
26/08/2026

Continuing our Materials Matter series with render, which is often associated with clean, contemporary architecture, but achieving that simplicity takes careful specification and attention to detail.

The home shown here features a through-colour monocouche render system, chosen for its durability, low maintenance requirements and crisp finish.

When specifying render, we consider:

✅ Appearance and long-term performance
✅ Movement and crack prevention
✅ Breathability and moisture management
✅ Detailing around windows, doors and material junctions

Great render isn't just about looking good on day one. It's about creating a façade that continues to perform and age well for years to come.

Continuing our Materials Matter series, we are looking at Timber cladding which has a unique ability to soften contempor...
20/08/2026

Continuing our Materials Matter series, we are looking at Timber cladding which has a unique ability to soften contemporary architecture, bringing warmth, texture and character to a building.

These projects showcase how materials can work together to create contrast and balance, with timber paired alongside natural stone and standing seam metal to produce a façade that is both contemporary and rooted in its surroundings.

Of course, successful timber cladding is about more than appearance. When specifying timber, we consider:

✅ Species and durability
✅ How the timber will weather over time
✅ Ventilation and moisture management
✅ Long-term maintenance requirements

At its best, timber responds beautifully to changing light and seasons, helping buildings feel increasingly connected to their landscape as they age.

Do you prefer timber cladding that naturally weathers to a silver-grey finish, or would you maintain its original colour?

Rob has recently returned from a holiday in Croatia, spending time exploring the historic city of Split before enjoying ...
19/08/2026

Rob has recently returned from a holiday in Croatia, spending time exploring the historic city of Split before enjoying a few days on the island of Hvar.

While it was a great holiday with beautiful landscapes and coastal scenery, it also brought home the environmental challenges many parts of Europe are facing. During the trip, significant wildfires occurred in the vicinity of Split, and the scale of the impact could still be seen in areas of burnt countryside surrounding the city.

Although not directly affected, it was a stark illustration of how drought, rising temperatures and extreme weather events are increasingly shaping the places we live, work and visit.

As architects, these experiences reinforce the importance of designing resilient buildings and places that respond to a changing climate, while continuing to respect and celebrate their local context.

A scheme of five contemporary, low‑energy homes in Ducklington, Oxfordshire.Replacing an under‑utilised bungalow plot, t...
10/08/2026

A scheme of five contemporary, low‑energy homes in Ducklington, Oxfordshire.

Replacing an under‑utilised bungalow plot, the development brings together modern design, traditional forms and a landscape‑led approach to create homes that sit comfortably within their surroundings.

Using a palette of buff brick and vertical timber cladding, the scheme reflects the local character while providing contrast, texture and a contemporary feel.

Designed around flexible living, energy efficiency and long‑term usability, Curbridge Gardens demonstrates how smaller developments can make a positive contribution to their setting.

Materials Matter is our new series exploring the materials, details and design decisions that shape great buildings.Mate...
07/08/2026

Materials Matter is our new series exploring the materials, details and design decisions that shape great buildings.

Materials Matter: Brick
Brick remains one of the most versatile materials in the architect's palette. Whether working with historic buildings or creating contemporary architecture, thoughtful brick selection helps connect a building to its context while providing durability, texture and longevity.

The Edge Hotel in Oxford demonstrates how buff-coloured brickwork can create a distinctive architectural identity while maintaining a strong relationship with the local character of the area.

Through careful specification, brick becomes far more than a façade material. It brings depth, rhythm and permanence to a building, while working beautifully alongside materials such as timber, steel and glass.

For us, brick continues to play an important role in creating architecture that is both contemporary and enduring.



Last month we were pleased to welcome another work experience student from Faringdon Community College to the studio.As ...
06/08/2026

Last month we were pleased to welcome another work experience student from Faringdon Community College to the studio.

As part of the week, they developed their own architectural proposal using 3D modelling software. What was particularly interesting was how different their solution was from those produced by our previous students – a great reminder that there is never just one answer to a design brief.

We’ve now hosted three work experience students this year, and it has been fantastic to see the enthusiasm, creativity and fresh ideas each has brought to the practice.

A big thank you to Faringdon Community College, and we wish all the students every success in their future studies.

It's been a pleasure having a work experience student from Faringdon Community College join us this week! 👏From resident...
10/07/2026

It's been a pleasure having a work experience student from Faringdon Community College join us this week! 👏

From residential and commercial site visits to client meetings, CPDs and learning the basics of our design software, he's experienced a real week in the life of an architectural practice.

Supporting young people and helping the next generation of architects discover the profession is something we're passionate about. Creating opportunities for learning, sharing knowledge and engaging with our community are all important parts of what we do.

We hope it's been an inspiring and enjoyable week! 🚀

Asked to reflect on my first year at A'Bear & Ball, I am reminded of how fortunate I am to be able to work again with fo...
07/07/2026

Asked to reflect on my first year at A'Bear & Ball, I am reminded of how fortunate I am to be able to work again with former colleagues whom I have known for many years.

Over the last year, my work has included educational, commercial and community projects. I have found much personal satisfaction in delivering new facilities for special needs children at Arbour Vale School in Slough, and in my current work on a major new Community Hub Building at Kingsgrove in Wantage.

The business is committed to ongoing learning across the whole team, and I have benefitted from a wide range of courses over the last year, including Principal Designer training with the RIBA.

Here's to the next year.

Address

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

Opening Hours

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

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