Our Team
Tom Hardwick
BA(Hons) MArch PGDip.Arch ARB RIBA
Chartered Architect and Founding Director
Tom is an RIBA Chartered Architect, registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB), and founding director of Hardwick Studio Architects Ltd, alongside Jemma.
He achieved RIBA Parts 1, 2 and 3 by working his way through the Undergraduate, Masters and Post-Graduate degree courses at the University of Lincoln, where he was an award-winning student – being awarded the RIBA Part 2 Masters Award.
Tom utilised his experiences at a range of architectural practices to amass a wealth of knowledge across all stages of project development, leading to a strong foundation for the formation of architectural design practice, Hardwick Studio Architects – a theory-lead innovative and creative studio focused on being explorative in our approach in establishing the best solution. Tom is responsible for developing the vision of the practice and leading the design of projects, working closely with clients throughout their journeys.
The experiences Tom has through previous employment and at Hardwick Studio Architects Ltd, include extensive involvement in the residential, domestic commercial and agricultural sectors, successfully delivering schemes ranging from luxury bespoke new build house and barn conversions through to larger master planning and multi-home design schemes, mixed-use development schemes, agricultural diversification and commercial schemes.
Tom believes in developing architecture that elevates the end-user experience, creating timeless design solutions appropriate to the social and economic context in which they are set. He is a committed and intelligent strategic thinker who understands clients’ requirements, with an ability to find clear and elegant solutions to resolve complex problems.
Tom also maintains a key interest in architectural theory and how this can be utilised within practice, whilst challenging and pushing the boundaries of design, establishing a strong team to develop the most appropriate solution for any design brief.
In his spare time, Tom loves spending his time with his Daughters and goofing around with them. His personal interests unfortunately include being a Derby County season ticket holder, where he acknowledges his support is more of a loyal respect for the local area, than a search for glory.
Jemma Hardwick
Practice Manager and Founding Director
Jemma is a Founding Director at Hardwick Studio Architects, and is responsible for the general day-to-day running of the business and financial management of the Practice, as well as the HR and employment aspects of the business.
Jemma is motivated and enjoys using practical and problem-solving skills to meet and exceed expectations in a challenging environment. She uses her extensive experiences in high pressure working environments, financial planning and working constraints as well as resource management gained during her time at both large and small companies across a number of sectors.
Whether you see Jemma in person or speak with her on the phone, you will always be greeted with a smiley and happy welcome.
Before setting up Hardwick Studio Architects with Tom, Jemma was a highly respected and highly qualified Veterinary Professional, working in high pressured and busy practices. She has translated business running skills and knowledge from her experiences and is now applying that knowledge learnt from other sectors into the architecture and design industry, as well as being an active part of a creative team taking the practice forward.
In her own time, Jemma loves spending time with her daughters, and involving them in activities such as baking, and being creative around the house. She is also a very keen dancer and has previously been recognised for her abilities in the examination processes from a young age.
Sam Hardwick
BA(Hons)
Architectural Media Creator and Design Assistant
Sam plays a dual role at Hardwick Studio Architects as both an Architectural Media Creator and Architectural Design Assistant. With a keen eye for detail and a creative approach to visual storytelling, Sam is responsible for producing high-quality images, videos, and animations that bring our architectural projects to life. His work supports the communication of design ideas to clients, consultants, and the wider public.
In addition to his media expertise, Sam contributes to the design process by modelling existing building information and preparing detailed design schemes. His work ensures that concepts are presented clearly and accurately throughout the development of each project.
Sam graduated with a First Class Honours in Film Studies with Media Production from the University of Worcester, following his Media Production studies at Staffordshire University. His background combines technical proficiency with creative flair, and he brings a wealth of hands-on experience with a wide range of media equipment and software. This unique skill set allows him to bridge the gap between architectural design and visual communication, enhancing the impact of our work being presented in a range of mixed media.
In his spare time, and alongside being Daddy to his daughter, Sam’s hobbies include digital content creating and he hosts a number of platforms including YouTube and Twitch where he shares his passion film and gaming with his audience.
Shella Aziz
BA(Hons) MArch
Architectural Consultant
Shella brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role as Architectural Consultant at Hardwick Studio Architects Ltd. She holds a BA (Hons) in Architecture (RIBA Part 1) from the University of Westminster and a Master’s in Architecture (RIBA Part 2) from Birmingham University.
With a career that includes time at internationally renowned practices such as Foster + Partners and Grimshaw, Shella has developed a deep understanding of design excellence, construction techniques, and regulatory compliance. Her meticulous attention to detail and broad technical expertise make her an invaluable asset to every stage of the design and delivery process.
Shella has a particular passion for sustainable architecture. She has undertaken accredited training in Passivhaus and Enerphit standards, and she applies this knowledge to create environmentally responsible and energy-efficient designs. Her Passivhaus design knowledge is very impressive and focus’ on achieving exceptional energy efficiency and occupant comfort through a holistic, integrated approach to building design. This knowledge allows for the creation of Shella buildings that consume significantly less energy for heating and cooling compared to conventional buildings, leading to substantial cost savings and reduced environmental impact.
Outside of work, Shella is a dedicated gardener and an avid traveller who loves exploring diverse cultures and architectural traditions around the world
Alfred
BArk M.Dig
Practice Mascot and Greeter
Alfred is the real heart of Hardwick Studio Architects. A small Border Terrier with a big personality, he’s been loyally “overseeing” projects since he was just a pup — usually from under a desk or the sunniest patch of floor. While he’s yet to produce a set of working drawings, Alfred’s spatial awareness is second to none (especially when someone opens a snack within a 5-metre radius).
Known for his warm welcomes and occasional overzealous greetings, Alfred is our unofficial Head of First Impressions. Clients and couriers alike are met with enthusiastic tail wags and perhaps the odd attempt to join them in a meeting.
Outside of his greeting duties, Alfred takes a strong interest in soft furnishings, floor plans (mainly to locate sunny napping spots), and acoustics (he will alert us to even the subtlest knock at the door).
When he’s not busy brightening up the studio, Alfred enjoys countryside walks, and sniffing (and trying to eat) all things planted, or otherwise being at home playing with his toys and being cheered on by his human sisters.
Despite not being RIBA-accredited, Alfred is considered an essential part of the team and brings a healthy dose of joy, playfulness, and perspective to every day at Hardwick Studio Architects.