Business Details
23 Years
experience
Award-Winning Conservation Architects in Leeds
Established in 2003, Arctic Associates is a distinguished architectural practice specialising in the conservation and restoration of heritage properties. Our expertise spans listed buildings, historic structures, and sensitive environments, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern design solutions. Led by AABC-accredited conservation architect Russell Trudgen, our team delivers tailored services for commercial, residential, and community projects across the UK. With over 20 years of experience, we prioritise technical excellence, stakeholder collaboration, and sustainable approaches to preserve architectural heritage. Our sister company, Igloo Interiors, extends our capabilities to award-winning interior design for public and commercial spaces. We maintain strong partnerships within the building design sector and adhere to rigorous standards, evidenced by our numerous accolades including the King of Prussia Gold Medal and National Churches Trust Award.Our multidisciplinary team combines architectural innovation with practical project management to transform historic spaces while respecting their cultural significance. From feasibility studies to contract administration, we provide comprehensive support through every project phase. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our work on iconic sites such as Saltaire United Reformed Church and Leeds Kirkgate Market. Through continuous professional development and industry engagement, we ensure our practice remains at the forefront of conservation architecture.
Services
Heritage Building Restoration
Listed Building Extensions
Conservation Surveys
Interior Refurbishment
Church Re-ordering
Urban Regeneration
Planning Applications
Project Management
Contract Administration
Feasibility Studies
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in heritage property conservation
- Our team includes AABC-accredited conservation architects
- Award-winning interior design services for commercial and community spaces
- Proven track record in complex heritage projects across the UK
- Collaborative approach working with stakeholders to deliver tailored solutions
Associations and certifications
- AABC
Services
Heritage Building Restoration
Specialised restoration of listed buildings and historic structures, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. Our approach preserves architectural integrity while addressing contemporary functionality requirements. We manage complex conservation projects from initial surveys to final execution, ensuring compliance with heritage regulations and best practices.
Listed Building Extensions
Design and implementation of sympathetic extensions for listed properties, balancing modern needs with historical context. We navigate planning constraints through innovative solutions that maintain visual harmony while enhancing usability for contemporary occupants.
Conservation Surveys
Comprehensive condition assessments and conservation strategies for historic buildings. Our surveys identify structural requirements, material specifications, and preservation priorities, forming the basis for targeted restoration programmes and heritage management plans.
Church Re-ordering
Specialist reconfiguration of ecclesiastical spaces to meet modern usage requirements while respecting historical significance. We deliver functional improvements for worship environments through sensitive design interventions and liturgical planning expertise.
Urban Regeneration
Strategic revitalisation of historic urban areas through conservation-focused development. Our approach integrates heritage preservation with contemporary infrastructure needs, creating sustainable environments that maintain cultural identity while supporting modern communities.
People
Russell Trudgen
Architect Director
Qualified architect with over 30 years' experience in heritage conservation. AABC-accredited specialist in listed buildings and former president of the Ecclesiastical Architects and Surveyors Association. Leads Arctic Associates' conservation projects across the UK.
Charlotte Trudgen
Design Director
Founder of award-winning Igloo Interiors and owner of Acou.Space. Combines textile design expertise with interior architecture experience. Specialises in creating functional, aesthetically compelling commercial and public spaces across heritage environments.
Karen Lakin
Secretary
Company secretary with construction sector expertise and 20+ years' experience. Manages administrative operations and project information verification. Integral to maintaining organisational efficiency and regulatory compliance for Arctic Associates.
Dora Aidoo
Architect
Qualified architect with 15 years' experience in commercial and residential sectors. Specialises in church conservation and high street regeneration projects across West Yorkshire. Expertise in space planning and historic building detailing.
Carl Elliott
Architect
Qualified architect and graphic designer with 5 years' experience in heritage projects. Specialises in conservation of historic churches in Yorkshire. Brings spatial planning and digital modelling expertise to Arctic Associates' design team.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in heritage conservation, listed building restoration, and adaptive reuse of historic structures. Our services include planning applications, project management, and interior design for heritage properties.
How long have you been operating as conservation architects?
Arctic Associates has been providing architectural services since 2003, with our team possessing over 30 years of combined experience in heritage conservation and restoration projects.
Do you handle both commercial and residential projects?
Yes, we work on both commercial and residential heritage projects. Our portfolio includes churches, listed homes, and urban regeneration schemes across the UK.
What areas do you cover for architectural services?
While based in Leeds, we operate throughout West Yorkshire and across the UK, with completed projects in locations including Bradford, Featherstone, and Richmond.
Are you accredited for heritage conservation work?
Our lead architect Russell Trudgen is accredited by the Association of Architectural Conservation Officers (AABC), demonstrating our specialist expertise in heritage property conservation.
Can you assist with church building projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience in church conservation, including re-ordering, quinquennial inspections, and restoration projects. Recent work includes Saltaire United Reformed Church and All Saints in Featherstone.
Reviews (4)
Andy Lenton
Nov 22, 2021
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So impressed with how Arctic 'listened' to all we had in mind. I highly recommend them for their professional and responsive approach.
Peter Oldfield
Oct 06, 2021
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I found Russell to be a conscientious professional who guided Gildersome Baptist Church in our project on repairs to the front wall of a listed building. He was always quickly responsive to our questions and needs and I would not hesitate to recommend Arctic Associates.
Barry Johnson
Aug 14, 2021
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It was a pleasure to work with Russell and Carl on their project to refurbish Trinity Methodist Church in South Elmsall. They did a superb job in fulfilling our vision in designing and creating a Church in the Community for the Community. They have managed to give the Church a makeover fit for the 21st century whilst maintaining its heritage and culture. i would have no difficulty i recommending them to future clients
Sarah Hinton
Aug 14, 2021
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We have used Arctic Associates for 10 years as we journey to make a church in poor condition into a space that can be used for worship and community activities; recognising its heritage but creating a building suitable for the 21st Century! They have journeyed with us, through many designs, funding bids and setbacks. They have been professional in their work but also supportive and helpful in so many ways.
