About
Smartarch is a niche architectural practice specialising in construction disputes and dispute resolution. We established in 2012 after many years working in architect’s practices in Bath and Bristol. Outside of London there are few architect’s practices offering these services utilising the architect’s broad perspective of all aspects of the construction process.
We act for private house owners, business owners, contractors and consultants, providing guidance, expert advice and expert witness services, where a project may not have progressed according to plan. Where engaged early enough we can assist in a outcome that avoids a formal dispute. We work closely with specialist solicitors and barristers, as well as more general practice lawyers. Where a dispute is inevitable, we assist in the resolution of most by negotiation or mediation.
We have recently been using consultants to assist with our workload and have developed a joint venture with an architect’s practice with offices in the south west and in London., so as to expand our knowledge and skill base.
Christopher Smart
DipArch RIBA MSc FCIArb
☎ 01225 445740
Christopher Smart is an experienced Architect with expertise in dispute resolution, professional negligence and in the legal field, being one of the few architects qualified as a Chartered Arbitrator.
As well as being a Chartered Architect Christopher Smart has a Masters Degree in Construction Law and Arbitration is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and is a registered dispute resolver with the RIBA, RICS and CIArb.
Alex Sykes
BA (Hons) DipArch RIBA
☎ 01225 445740
Alex qualified as an Architect in 2004. Prior to joining the practice in 2020, he worked as an Associate at Designscape Architects for thirteen years. During his time at Designscape Alex performed the role of Project Architect for several award winning projects including Twinneys, Hill Farm Dairy, Horseshoe House and Monkton Farleigh. More recent projects include Withycombe House and the Corinium Museum. Prior to Designscape he worked for Snell Associates and Hopkins Architects, contributing to landmark projects such as Portcullis House and the Wellcome Trust Headquarters in London.
Alex’s career as an Architect has afforded him a good grasp of the technical aspects of building, preparing schedules of work and construction drawings, compiling tender packages and providing contract administration services from start to completion. He took on an advisory role at Designscape for matters involving contracts, CDM compliance and conservation / listed buildings. Alex is listed on the RIBA Conservation Register (since 2013) and has a particular interest and expertise in working with historic buildings.
