Press
Using technology to make every client meeting count
We spoke to Master Builder Magazine about using technology to drive productive client meetings and…
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Meet the Team
Seán McAlister
Since founding the business in 2012, Seán has led Pencil and Brick, designing both modest and front-page home improvement projects across London. Since 2018 he’s also been leading our construction company bringing design and build together under one roof.
Seán is a vocal advocate for mandatory builder licensing and stronger consumer protection in the UK. His commitment to raising the bar earned him a seat on the FMB London Board, and the FMB National Standards Committee, where he campaigns for better standards, accountability and trust in construction.
Originally from Northern Ireland, he now lives in Walthamstow with his wife and two kids, in a home he renovated and extended inhouse (forgive the pun) – he walks the talk. When he’s not thinking about houses, you’ll find him singing or playing a competitive game of table tennis.
ARB Registration Number : 083888H
More about Seán
Unexpected hobby or side obsession:
Singing bass in small ensembles, especially for renaissance and baroque choral music
Secret talent totally unrelated to work:
Quick moves on the Table Tennis table
My brain runs on…
OCD Juice
Current favourite building material or tool:
Smoked Portuguese Cork
Design trend you’ll never tire of:
John Soane’s Lumière Mystérieuse
Playlist/album I have on repeat at work:
In Colour by Jamie XX
Blogs from Seán
Home Design & Build
In conversation with Citi Homes Windows
We were recently asked to talk all things aluminium doors and windows with Citi Homes…
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Home Design & Build
The truth about why your renovation may fail (honest architect opinion!)
Home renovations often feel overwhelming before construction even begins. Discover the hidden renovation planning challenges…
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Home Design & Build
Futureproof your floor plan – Seán’s expert tips from Build It Magazine April 2026
Discover expert tips on futureproofing your floor plan, helping your home adapt to your lifestyle…
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Press
Wet Room Design Ideas Featured in Build It
We were delighted to contribute to a recent feature in Build It magazine, where Jana…
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News
Pencil and Brick are a Best of Houzz 2026 Winner for Design
We’re excited to share we’ve been named a Best of Houzz 2026 winner for Design.
Read BlogLooking to renovate your London home?
As both architects and a construction practice under one roof, we can manage every stage of your project from initial concept to final 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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Our Process
Our process helps you navigate planning, budgeting, and design making home renovations feel more joyful.
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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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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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