After studying at the Bartlett School of Architecture, (UCL) and working for leading international architectural companies, John Smart established his own practice in 2004.

The practice is consciously studio based and is closely coupled with both a unique architect-led development company and a craft based construction team. Also directed by John they form part of his approach to a new way of architectural practice. This partnership offers the studio a wide scope of process and activity, investigation and experimentation, and also the ability to invent briefs and building technologies. Rigorous research within the studio through architectural investigations, competitions, teaching and examination of culture, informs and binds the partnership as a whole. The practice is also engaged with committed clients where briefs can offer further scope outside the practice's own profile.

At the practice's clerestory level, interests are engaged in areas where the partnership can positively contribute and make improvements to existing building types, cultural infrastructure and the wider environment. Architectural philosophy focuses on cultural and site context, appropriation of briefs and narratives. Our designs are also led by the practice's consideration of environmental issues, material research, sculpting and holding of light and space.