February 27, 2026 / By rachel

Hip Hip Hooray – RRA Architects is 40 years old!

40 Years of RRA Architects is more than a milestone. It is a celebration of the people who have shaped the practice over four decades.

Since 1986, RRA Architects has grown from a small Hereford practice into an established architecture studio working across Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Worcestershire and the Cotswolds. While projects and locations have evolved, the spirit of collaboration and care has remained constant. Over the years we have adapted to changing technologies, shifting planning landscapes and evolving sustainability standards, but our core values have stayed the same.

To mark the occasion, we asked our team …

 

…. what makes RRA special?

 

“I really enjoy working at RRA because of the friendly team spirit and quality of our work. From day one, everyone has made me feel welcome and supported, always willing to share their knowledge and help me grow. It’s a positive, collaborative environment that makes me proud to be part of the team.”
Jess, Part 1 Architectural Assistant

 

“What I love most about RRA is the strong sense of teamwork and the way everyone’s feedback, ideas and suggestions are genuinely valued. It’s a company that truly cares about its employees and stays actively involved in the community. The team’s endless enthusiasm and energy to go above and beyond for every client, bringing their vision for their property to life, is what makes RRA so special.”
Michelle, Administration Co-ordinator

 

“It’s great working in such a creative environment with a talented and friendly team. There’s a real energy towards exploring ideas and developing innovative design. It’s all about bringing ambitious clients’ visions into reality.”
Steve, Associate

 

“Having spent 30 years in hospitality, I learnt quickly that trust and teamwork are vital. In my nine years at RRA, I’ve experienced both at a level unlike anywhere else. I’ve been given autonomy, support and room to grow, and what truly sets RRA apart is its culture; we are not just a team, we are a group of individuals who are all valued for our input. I am incredibly proud to be part of RRA and grateful to work where teamwork, trust and appreciation are lived every day.”
Jane, Group Operations Director

 

“I love being a part of RRA; working in a collaborative, detail-driven environment is inspiring. It’s incredibly rewarding to play a role in showcasing the practice’s thoughtful design work and supporting the wider team.”
Tallulah, Marketing Co-ordinator

 

“My favourite part of RRA is the opportunity it’s given me to properly understand the professional world and see how what I’ve studied translates into real life. Being part of the team has made that learning experience both supportive and genuinely rewarding.”
Freya, Part 1 Architectural Assistant

 

“I really enjoy working with RRA because the team is incredibly friendly and supportive. As I continue to learn and grow in my role, it’s great to work alongside people who are always willing to share their knowledge and help each other succeed.”
Aidan, Architectural Assistant

 

The responses were thoughtful, generous and varied, but a common thread ran through them all. Teamwork, pride in quality and genuine care for clients, colleagues and each other. It is not just about the buildings we design. It is about the relationships we build along the way.

Then we asked …

…. what is the best part of your job at RRA Architects?

 

“For me, the best part about RRA is being able to grow in my architectural journey alongside a passionate and caring team that is committed not only to delivering quality designs, but to creating spaces that make a lasting impact.”
Zak, Part 1 Architectural Assistant

 

“Making people’s dream homes a reality. I really enjoy being part of the journey people go on to create their dream home and being able to help deliver their vision, knowing the pleasure they get from this.”
Mark, Managing Director

 

“For me, the best bit of being part of the RRA team is seeing people happy – that can be a big win such as someone passing their exams to become a qualified architect after seven years hard study or a more regular win such as achieving a difficult planning permission, especially when we know how happy it will make our client. I love the closeness of the team and that even when people move on they often keep in touch, it really does make us feel like a big family.”
Rachel, Marketing Director

 

“Meeting new people who are excited to begin their architectural journey. I enjoy discussing their thoughts & aspirations over a cup of coffee and understanding how we can help turn them into reality.”
Tom, Associate Director

 

“I enjoy being part of the team at RRA that gives equal consideration and service to each and every project regardless of budget.”
Jo, Administration Co-ordinator

 

“Working at RRA Architects has given me the chance to grow both personally and professionally since joining as a Part 1. With the right balance of support and responsibility, I’ve been able to build my skills and confidence as a Part 2, while also developing strong professional relationships with the team, clients, and consultants.”
Rhys, Project Designer

 

 

 

What comes through clearly is the sense of shared purpose. Whether it is helping a young architect qualify after years of study, achieving a difficult planning permission or turning a client’s long-held dream into reality, it is the collective wins that matter most.

Over four decades, RRA Architects has adapted to changing industry standards and evolving best practice within UK architecture. We have embraced new technology, strengthened our sustainability approach and expanded our regional reach, but the heart of the practice remains the same.

Forty years on, RRA Architects remains committed to creative, responsive and quality-driven architecture across Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire, Worcestershire and the Cotswolds.

It is hard to believe we are already celebrating 40 years of RRA Architects. Here’s to the next chapter, and thank you to everyone who has been part of the journey so far.

To read more about all the RRA team, visit our ‘Meet the Team’ page