About Us

The Practice

MRT Architects is a design-led chartered architectural practice based in Stratford-Upon-Avon and the Cotswolds with over 45 years experience and an established reputation for creating high-quality, imaginative, and well-considered designs coupled with a commercial awareness.

Founded in 1975 the architectural practice of Rathbone Taylor amalgamated with Marson Architects to form Marson Rathbone Taylor LLP Architects to bring together the resources and expertise of the two practices.

MRT Architects undertakes work across a broad spectrum of building types; from large and small residential projects to civic, leisure, commercial, and educational schemes. As such the clients we work for range from large developers, private individuals, and a number of public and private bodies.

We pride ourselves on being an approachable and friendly practice and our projects are always a tailor-made response to our client’s specific needs and the unique characteristics of a site. The practice is adept at delivering both traditional and contemporary high quality designs and, using our extensive local knowledge, we have been able to secure planning consents for a number of sensitive sites.

We are a team of experienced and passionate Architects and Architectural Technologists dedicated to creating design lead, beautiful and sustainable buildings. With a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to excellent design, we provide a comprehensive range of architectural services to clients throughout Stratford-upon-Avon, the Cotswolds, Warwick, Leamington Spa, Solihull and many other places in the Warwickshire, Worcestershire, and Gloucestershire area.

Whether you’re looking to build a bespoke new home, renovate an existing house or agricultural building, or develop a commercial space, our team can help you bring your vision to life. We take the time to understand your aspirations and design a space that meets your requirements, whilst taking into consideration your budget, timeline, and local planning constraints.

MRT Architects is well versed in the latest building technologies and materials, and we work closely with Engineers, Contractors, and other Specialists in and around the Warwickshire, Worcestershire, and Gloucestershire area to ensure your project is executed to the highest standards. Our goal is to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, environmentally sustainable, and beautiful.

We offer a range of architectural services, from inception to completion including:

Site Analysis
Feasibility and Conceptual Design
3D Rendering and Visualisation
Space Planning
Interior Design
Planning Applications
Conservation and Listed Building Consent
Paragraph 79 Projects
Building Control Applications
Construction Documentation and Specification
Tender Action and Negotiation
Contract Administration and Project Management
CDM Services

At MRT Architects we believe that great design starts with collaboration. We work closely with our clients to understand their vision and we strive to create spaces that is not only beautiful but also reflects their unique style and personality. If you’re looking for a reliable and experienced Architect to support you with your project, contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help you bring your project to life.

Our Team

Simon Marson RIBAPartner

Simon holds both a BSc. (Hons) and a Bachelor of Architecture (Distinction) degree from the University of Wales. He has spent a considerable part of his career working in California before joining a pioneering UK Construction company which honed his commercial and technical skills, adding to his natural gift for drawing, design and presentation. Following a directorship with a Warwickshire-based architectural practice, Simon created Marson Architects in the Cotswolds which he subsequently merged with Rathbone Taylor to form the current partnership of MRT Architects. Simon brings to the team leadership, creative design flair and considerable ‘safe pair of hands’ experience.

Harj Donnelly RIBAPartner

Harj joined MRT as a Senior Architect in October, 2018. Although Harj has a degree in Architecture, she has a wealth of interior design experience and has worked on a variety of projects in the fields of education, residential, commercial and hospitality. This, along with a natural flair for design, coupled with 19 years of experience in the construction industry,means she can help clients to decide and develop schemes with which they have needed support and advice in moving forward.

Harj has also acted as a mentor to young professionals within the construction industry and has helped them gain the experience and confidence they need to develop within the built environment and achieve their ambitions.

Stephen Lewis MCIATPartner

Stephen holds a First Class degree in Architectural Technology and is a Chartered member of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT).

Stephen has worked in the Architectural Industry in a broad range of sectors including Residential, Commercial, Retail and Industrial whilst utilising Revit to produce technically considered design work for all stages of a project from initial concept to completion. Stephen’s portfolio includes a £32m Tender of a high end retail scheme, several commercial schemes within the Midlands, and a number of residential conversion schemes in and around London.

Waqaar ZaminPart 2 Architectural Assistant

Having completed both his Undergraduate BA(Hons) and Masters of Architecture at Birmingham City University, Waqaar joined MRT Architects in September 2024 and is currently in the process of gaining his RIBA accreditation to become a chartered Architect. Bringing a strong foundation in architectural design and technical knowledge he contributes to various stages of the design and delivery process, from concept development to detailed technical documentation. Passionate about creating functional and aesthetically compelling spaces, working collaboratively with colleagues and clients to bring innovative ideas to life while continually learning and expanding his expertise.

Jamel LawrencePart 1 Architectural Assistant

After graduating from the University of Salford in Architecture, Jamel has joined MRT in 2024 to complete his Part 1 Architectural Assistant placement year. Using AutoCAD and Revit, he applies his experience and skills to assist in visualising a variety of projects for our clients.

Hannah KennyGraphic Designer

Hannah has worked as MRT’s in-house graphic designer since 2006, working on both residential and commercial projects at small to large scale. Hannah has the ability to use her visual interpretation of material, colour and landscape to bring any architectural drawing to life. Working mainly on RIBA stages 0 – 3, Hannah aids the practice in producing high quality visuals that are an integral part of MRT’s planning applications. In addition to Hannah using her presentation skills, she assists with updating the website, social media and marketing material.

Maggie MorganFinancial Controller / Office Manager

Prior to joining MRT in June 2024, Maggie has been employed as Finance Manager for nearly 20 years, the majority of which was for a software development company, the Head Office of which was also based in Stratford upon Avon. Maggie brings to MRT a wealth of experience in finance management, HR, payroll, compliance management, as well as office management.

Emma SandilandsConsultant

Prior to joining MRT in January 2017, Emma was an Office Manager for over 25 years, working in the private sector for a plastic extrusion manufacturer. Emma has gained considerable experience in the running of a manufacturing business and being responsible for the day to day needs of running a busy office. Emma brings to MRT experience and qualifications in accountancy, payroll, HR, cost accounting, as well as experience in sales and marketing.