About | JWA Architects

About Us

JWA is a RIBA Chartered architectural practice located in Leicestershire, UK. We design spaces that resonate with people's lifestyles, whether at home, in the workplace, or anywhere they may be.

Meet The Team

Director

Stewart Prior

Stewart has 40 years of experience at JWA Architects, managing refurbishments and new-build projects. His key achievements include directing Costa’s drive-thru programme, launching fifty new pubs for Marston’s Inn & Taverns, and overseeing Travelodge’s Project Rhianna, which delivered 2,000 guest rooms across 54 sites in eight months.

Director

Steve Blake

Steve has been with JWA Architects for over 35 years, leading our technical team in all CDM and Principle Designer services for our commercial projects. He has built strong relationships with national clients and contractors, bringing valuable knowledge of various construction processes and procurement methods.

Associate Director

David Cousins

David has built an impressive career in the fuel forecourt sector working with renowned brands like BP, Texaco, and Shell. His experience has also led him to collaborate with major names such as Costa Coffee, McDonald's, and NG Bailey. He embraces modern technology and innovative materials to continually broaden his expertise.

Our Story

JWA Architects, an RIBA Awarded practice, was founded in 1975 by John Ward, a prominent partner at the Midland’s firm Candlish Kind and Ward. Specialising in motor-oriented projects, John pioneered the design of self-service forecourts from our offices in Leicestershire and Berkshire, establishing us as one of the leading architectural consultancies for motorway service area design across the UK. Over the years, we have expanded our services to include masterplanning, development monitoring, CDM, and Principal Designer services, as well as designs for both residential and commercial projects. In 2016, we continued to expand by acquiring Michael Lavender Architects. Now led by Stewart and Steve, we have relocated our main office to the historic Old Town Hall in Market Harborough, where we remain committed to providing quality design solutions.

Our Approach

We focus on communication, creativity, and collaboration in every project. We are passionate about exceptional service, viewing each project as a partnership between our clients, our design team, and key stakeholders. By placing dialogue at the heart of our process, we take the time to deeply understand your needs, challenge assumptions, and tailor solutions that align with your brand, budget, and unique requirements. Our innovative design approach ensures that every solution is practical, efficient, and adaptable for future growth.