Although in recent times the need to care for the environment has become more widely recognised, Maurice Clarke has been trying to increase awareness of the need for a sustainable approach to architecture for over thirty years.

He says "Architects are in a unique position to make a positive contribution, by not only raising awareness of our responsibilities, but by helping to ensure the long term health of the planet. I believe that because we all share the same environment, we all need to share responsibility for it."

He decided in 2006 to form his own design consultancy putting care for the environment at the heart of everything he does. Sustainability is not something to be added as an afterthought, but needs to be considered from the start of a commission. Simply using 'green' construction materials is not enough. Because buildings are responsible for about half of carbon dioxide emissions, architects can have a huge influence.

Many people think that green or sustainable architecture requires earth source heat pumps, photovoltaic cells and wind generators to be incorporated in a project. However our philosophy is to look at more basic matters such as making buildings more airtight, and harnessing passive heating and cooling technologies, because we believe that these things are more cost effective.

Having moved to Luton in 2009, the practice is currently responsible for projects not only in Hertfordshire, but in Cambridge and Greater London. We are in a perfect location to serve the whole of the south east and the midlands.