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Manuel Urbina Studio
London, United Kingdominfo@manuelurbina.studio
+44 (0) 756 851 0838Instagram: manuelurbinastudio
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Manuel Urbina Studio is a small London based award winning, design-led architecture studio specialising in residential architecture and interiors design.
The studio is driven by meticulous attention to the concept and details of every project. With a focus on refining design solutions by taking the big idea and resolving it back to its simplest form to appreciate and consider broader ideas about how we live, make a living and what we value.
Our approach is simple; a genuine interest in the people with which we choose to work leads to thoughtful and beautiful crafted spaces. We take on a limited number of projects a year so we can focus our attention fully on a project.
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BA (Hons) Architecture, MArch.
Manuel Urbina studied architecture at the University of Portsmouth, where he was awarded the 2015 RIBA Overall Prize. He then went on to further his studies at the University of Westminster where he gained his Masters. Manuel founded his architecture Studio in 2020 and currently undertakes private projects along with his full-time practice duties.
Manuel has since worked on a number of residential and commercial projects across London, with the fundamentals of his experience developed under multiple award wining practices, from architecture to interior design.
Born in Venezuela, As well as being half Spanish, Manuel started life in the US and lived across the world in culture-rich countries such as Spain and Italy.
The core of his design philosophy is rooted in minimalism and a profound appreciation for pure materiality. He developed a keen eye for aesthetics and an understanding of how the choice of materials can profoundly impact the overall design. Learning to appreciate the beauty of simplicity, valuing the essence of materials in their purest form.
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The studio specialises in the design and delivery for domestic residential and commercial clients including new builds, extensions, loft conversions, basements, reconfigurations, and fit-outs.
We offer a full range of architectural services to take projects from concept through to completion.
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Every project begins with a brief. We discuss with the clients their vision and aspirations for their project. We examine the history and condition of the property, surrounding context and review of the local planning policies. During Stage 1, we explore the project through drawings, models and photos. The aim of the feasibility stage is to give you a sense of what is possible in design terms. At the end of the stage you will have a set of proposed sketches and an idea of how to deal with planning in order to take the scheme forward.
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Sometimes a pre-application service is required to gain feedback from the council before submitting the full application. The pre-application process engages local authorities early on in a development process, by working together the aim is to make the planning process easier for both council and client. Once we receive the councils response we will have an indication as to whether any changes to your design will need to be made before entering a full Planning Application. We will amend the scheme accordingly for planning submission.
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During Stage 2, we develop the preferred scheme in more detail producing a full set of CAD drawings that will be submitted to the local planning authority. New proposals will require some level of planning consent to be in place before construction can begin and we can advise on which type of application is suitable. We will provide a sufficient level of detail for planning submission and prepare the appropriate documentation to accompany the drawings.
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The approved designs are developed to ensure compliance with Building Regulations. Aspects such as accessibility, electrics, drainage, ventilation, energy, structure and construction all come in to play. We manage input from other consultants and, at the end of Stage 3, obtain a Building Warrant for the works.
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Stage 4 takes the proposals to the next level of detail and concludes with a full package of Tender Documentation, which can be issued to contractors for pricing. Our tender packages include full construction details, as well as material specifications and schedules. We simultaneously provide information to the Local Authority for Building Regulations Approval. At the end of the stage you will have a full set of construction drawings.
Thank you for approaching our studio to discuss your project.
Before we talk, we thought it would be useful to gather some initial information about yourselves and your project. This form is to record your contact details and understand the type of project you want to discuss with us.
For new project enquiries please use the form below:
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“I am thrilled to write this review for Manuel who helped design my boutique fitness studio. Every moment I walked into the studio, I am struck by the sleek and modern design. Every detail was carefully thought out and executed flawlessly, creating an environment that is both inviting and inspiring.
Manuel use of natural light and bright colours creates an atmosphere that is energising and upliftings. The layout of the studio is incredibly functional, with ample space for workout equipment and plenty of room for clients to move around freely.
The attention to detail is evident throughout the studio, from the custom lighting fixtures to the carefully chosen flooring. Manuel has clearly taken great care to ensure that every aspect of the design is both beautiful and functional.
One of the standout features of your boutique fitness studio is the welcoming and inviting reception area. The architect has created a space that is warm and welcoming, with comfortable seating and a sense of calm that sets the tone for the entire studio.
Manuel helped and guided the team through every process from architectural drawings, liaising with our contractors, communicating with the council and many more.
Overall, I am incredibly impressed with the work of Manuel. His attention to detail and commitment to creating a space that is both beautiful and functional has truly paid off. The studio is a testament to his talent and expertise, and I have no doubt that it will continue to be a success for many years to come. I would highly recommend this architect to anyone looking to design a space that is both stunning and practical.“
Michael Sowole
UN1T Nine Elms -
“No hesitation in recommending Manuel Urbina Studio to anyone looking for a trustworthy and professional architectural studio. They were fantastically helpful at guiding us through the process, stage by stage from approved planning permissions to a completion of the thoughtfully designed fitness studio.
From the start the design process was a conversation and two way exchange of ideas, with plenty of professionalism and patience. Manuel navigated the whole process smoothly, liaised with the builder well, and we were granted granted planning permissions with no issues.
Manuel was working over and beyond to deliver this project in the timely manner and overcame a lot of difficulties. The attention to detail was excellent. This is the biggest project we have done and we needed someone straightforward who we could trust. I am very pleased with the end result of the designs and highly recommend Manuel Urbina Studio.”
Julija German
F45 Clapham Junction -
“What a star. Manny was so helpful in assisting with the floor plan, signage and planning application. Working flexibly including making himself available on WhatsApp and showing genuine interest and care in my project. He even provided professional photos and videos I was able to use for my social media page.”
Maya Price
F45 Finsbury Park -
“It’s an absolute pleasure working with Manuel! He is professional, responsive and his attention to detail is amazing. We will definitely work with him on all our future projects and can’t recommend him enough.”
Hanri van der Merwe
F45 Blackhorse
Testimonials