Meet the Team

Max Irving-Lamb

Architectural Designer

Following four years working on multi-residential and cultural projects in New Zealand, Max moved to the UK in 2023. He has since been focused on private homes in London, bringing his passion for working with architectural heritage to the fore.
In his spare time, he enjoys oil painting,  exploring landscape, still life and abstract forms.

Unexpected hobby or side obsession:

BBC’s The Traitors! I hope to compete one day.

Secret talent totally unrelated to work:

I love making elaborate costumes for themed parties.

My brain runs on…

Unfortunately, sugar.

Current favourite building material or tool

Structural stone!

Design trend you’ll never tire of

Including smaller, intimate spaces within a home.

Playlist/album I have on repeat at work

Tori Amos became my favourite artist a couple of years ago, and I have compiled a playlist that is over 8 hours long.

Looking to renovate your London home?

Because we are both architects and a construction practice under one roof, we can manage every stage of your project from the initial concept all the way through to completion with clear budgets, realistic timelines, and seamless collaboration. Whether you’re planning a sustainable retrofit, a beautiful extension, or a full home refurbishment, we make the process straightforward, stress-free, and tailored to how you want to live.

About us

Get to know us

We’re known for bringing a fresh, sometimes quirky approach to reimagining period homes, blending contemporary flair with a deep respect for original character. Our work strikes a careful balance between old and new: thoughtful, playful, and never afraid of statement colour or bold design details.

We don’t follow design trends for their own sake.  Instead, we approach each home on its own terms, creating spaces that feel naturally light and open, or calm and atmospheric, depending on what suits it best.

Our Ethos and Values

Our philosophy is simple: great design and great delivery should always go hand in hand.

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Close-up of original London stock bricks in arch detail

Our Process

Our process helps you navigate planning, budgeting, and design making home renovations feel more joyful.

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A basement family room with a kitchenette, a polished concrete floor, and a 'fin-like' ceiling detail.

What we do

We offer architectural design or full design and build services, bringing creative thinking and hands-on expertise to both.

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Close up detail of terracotta splashback and countertops

Awards and Recognition

We’re RIBA Chartered and proud to be recognised by the Federation of Master Builders and Best of Houzz. Our work…

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Pencil and Brick

Pencil and Brick Architects Ltd. RIBA Chartered Practice No.20016109, Registered in England and Wales. Reg No. 08511999. Pencil and Brick Ltd, Federation of Master Workers No. 130675, Registered in England and Wales. Reg No. 12010077 © Pencil and Brick.