ABOUT US

Caithness Architects was established in 2018 by Rory Caithness. John Caithness joined the practice in 2019 in a consultancy role. We are a design-led practice based in Belfast, working on projects across a range of scales and typologies throughout the North and South of Ireland. We are interested in developing architecture that is carefully crafted, responds sensitively to its context and environment, and maximizes the potential of our clients’ budgets.

We are a small, but highly experienced team and have delivered projects from very small to very large throughout a combined 50 years of experience. Current and recently completed projects are a mix of domestic and commercial, ranging from extensions and refurbishments to bespoke houses and apartment developments. We have developed certain expertise in the refurbishment of older buildings of historic architectural value, for both domestic and commercial clients, and are equally comfortable with a blank canvas.

When entrusting us to work on your project, you will work directly with Rory and/or John throughout all stages of the project. Our small size allows this in a way that larger practices can’t offer. Every project is a unique undertaking. Our design process begins with a thorough understanding of the existing context, be that an existing house or new site. Through our design development we will seek to make proposals that respond to the existing immediate and wider context, to develop a project that is site specific and tailored to your needs. Every project is a collaboration between us (architect), client, other consultants who we can advise on and coordinate for you, and contractors when the project reaches site. We are good listeners, good communicators and excellent problem solvers.  

We offer a full range of architectural services ranging from feasibility studies, concept design, planning, technical design, building control submission and contract administration on site. We are happy to develop a tailored service as you require.

If you wish to discuss a project please get in touch (see contact page). In the first instance we offer a free (no obligation) consultation at your home or site. We will then follow up with a detailed fee proposal broken down throughout the various project stages.

TEAM

Rory qualified at the Belfast School of Architecture at Ulster University, following completion of an initial degree in Town Planning and Urban Design at the University of Sheffield.

Prior to establishing Caithness Architects he worked in several award-winning international practices including Grimshaw in London, Sweet Sparkman in Sarasota, Florida and Hall McKnight in Belfast, gaining diverse project experience ranging from private residences to the redevelopment of Reading Station.  

Outside of practice Rory currently teaches part time leading a design studio at The Belfast School of Architecture.

John qualified in Hull and has experience in a diverse range of projects including residential, sheltered dwellings, healthcare, leisure and retail. He has led projects in many countries including Ireland, England, Poland and Portugal, and has also acted as an expert witness on various legal issues.

Sean joined Caithness Architects in 2021. He completed his undergraduate degree in Architecture with Distinction at the Belfast School of Architecture at Ulster University in 2018 and his degree project was nominated for the RSUA President’s Bronze medal. He completed his Master’s degree in 2021, also with Distinction from the Belfast School of Architecture. During his 2 year Master’s Programme Sean focused on rural and urban dwelling typologies and final year Thesis Project was nominated for the RSUA President’s Silver Medal.

Sean’s previous experience in practice includes working for Consarc Design Group where he worked on hotel developments in Dublin and Portrush involving refurbishment and additions to listed buildings. Sean has strong 2D and 3D skills (both analogue and digital) and is developing an increasing technical knowledge in the detailed design stages of projects.