In the Spotlight: PAD Studio Architects on sustainable architecture and creative vision.

First, we speak to Wendy…

Q: What is your name and role at PAD Studio Architects?

A: My name is Wendy Perring, and I'm the founder and director of PAD Studio Architects.

Q: How did you become interested in architecture?

A: I was always a creative child, growing up on a farm in Northern Ireland. I enjoyed playing with hay bales, painting, drawing, and was aware of buildings and the built environment. I didn’t know I wanted to be an architect until I was 18, when I decided to give it a try and fell in love with it.

Q: What does architecture mean to you?

A: Architecture is very meaningful to me because it impacts the environment we live in and affects our well-being. Great architecture should be accessible to everyone and has the power to enhance lives by improving the built environment.

Q: What type of projects does PAD Studio work on?

A: Our work is varied, but we do a lot of residential projects, including bespoke houses. We also work on community projects, which we love because of their broader impact on people.

Q: How did your interest in sustainability develop?

A: My interest in sustainability started during university when I became aware of the climate crisis. I believe it’s fundamental to who we are, and we must make good choices to ensure the planet thrives. This has shaped my approach to architecture, and we aim to minimise our footprint.

Q: Why did PAD Studio become a B Corp, and what does it mean for the firm?

A: Becoming a B Corp last year formalised our commitment to ethics and sustainability. It aligns us with other businesses that prioritise the planet and people alongside profit. It’s a balance we strive for in everything we do.

Q: How has sustainability influenced PAD Studio's work over the years?

A: Sustainability and environmental considerations have always been central to our work. We've been designing low-energy buildings with minimal impact for 15 years. Our extensive experience and research have helped us refine our methods, and we’re pleased to see sustainability becoming mainstream.

Q: What do you see as the future of architecture in terms of sustainability? How important is it to specify materials that last?

A: I’m delighted that natural materials and thermal mass are becoming more popular, replacing less sustainable options like plastic. It’s crucial to specify materials with longevity and consider their lifecycle. We should design buildings for a long lifespan, using materials that can be reused or repurposed, not just recycled. This approach reduces waste and supports sustainability.

Q: How does PAD Studio approach the future home standards?

A: We’ve been designing to future home standards for a long time, so the world is catching up with us. Our focus is on staying ahead and continually pushing for more sustainable solutions that minimize our impact.

Read our blog on ‘Part L’

Q: Do you think beauty should play a role in sustainable architecture?

A: Absolutely. Beauty is essential in design because if a building isn’t beautiful, people won’t enjoy it or take care of it. For us, creating beautiful, sustainable buildings is about leaving a legacy that will be loved and appreciated.

Q: How important is collaboration with manufacturers in your design process?

A: Collaboration with manufacturers is vital. We need to understand the products we specify and ensure our clients can experience them. Suppliers often provide valuable insights and suggestions that enhance our designs.

Read our blog on ‘How can architects and manufacturers shape the future of sustainable architecture today?’

Q: What are your criteria for specifying materials?

A: We prioritise the tactility, environmental credentials, and longevity of materials. We look for natural materials with low embodied carbon, or materials that, while having higher carbon, will last a long time. Low maintenance is also important, and we’re increasingly focused on traceability and environmental certifications.

Q: How do you view the future of architecture in light of new materials and environmental awareness?

A: The future of architecture is exciting, with new materials and a growing awareness of environmental issues. This will challenge large-scale developers to adopt smarter, more sustainable practices, giving architects the opportunity to lead in creating environmentally responsible designs.

Q: What are your thoughts on the impact of AI and technology on architecture?

A: While I’m excited about the potential of AI, especially for environmental design, I’m also concerned that it could lead to designs that lack an understanding of space and place. It’s important to maintain a balance, ensuring that technology serves to enhance human-centered design rather than replace it.

Now to Collette…

Q: Can you introduce yourself and describe your role at PAD?

A: I'm Collette, an architect and creative manager at PAD. I assist with developing and delivering projects, as well as crafting and promoting our brand and ethos.

Q: When did you decide to pursue architecture?

A: I wanted to be an architect from around the age of 13. Initially, I was interested in animation due to my love for storytelling and drawing. However, after doing work experience with an architecture firm, my perspective shifted, and I decided to pursue architecture.

Q: How do you define good architecture?

A: Good architecture tells a story. You can see the narrative in the design, which is rooted in the site, people, and place. In contrast, bad architecture lacks a story and doesn’t engage with its context.

Q: Can you tell us about the transformation of the space PAD Studio occupies?

A: We transformed a former fruit and veg shop into a homely, open-plan space where we interact socially. We focus on well-being, including office yoga, because we believe in caring for ourselves to create healthy spaces for our clients.

Q: What do you see as the future of architecture in terms of sustainability?

A: Architecture is evolving in two directions: pushing environmental boundaries with new materials and technologies, and another, slower trend rooted in traditional methods.