– The Vision Behind Solent Architecture

In this month’s blog, we sat down with Rachel Reade, the founder of Solent Architecture, to learn more about her journey, her design philosophy, and what inspires her work transforming homes across Hampshire and Sussex.

Q:
Founder Interview: Rachel Reade – The Vision Behind Solent Architecture

Absolutely. I founded Solent Architecture in 2020, after working in the architectural industry for over a decade. I’d gained experience across a wide range of sectors, from education and healthcare to residential and infrastructur,e but I reached a point where I wanted to focus on the projects I truly loved. Helping people shape their homes is something I find incredibly rewarding, and I wanted to create a practice that was both creative and technically grounded, with a personal approach at its heart.

Q:
What led you to architecture in the first place?

I’ve always had a love for design, but I was equally interested in how things work. Architectural Technology struck a perfect balance between creativity and practical problem-solving. I studied at Sheffield Hallam University and qualified in 2008. From there, I started my career with firms like Bond Bryan and BDP, working on large-scale education and healthcare projects.

Q:
What led you to architecture in the first You’ve worked across so many sectors — what are some of the key lessons you’ve brought into your residential work??

Working in different sectors really helped me develop a strong foundation in technical design and project delivery. When you work on large and complex projects, you learn how to manage detail and coordinate with many stakeholders. I bring that same level of detail to home design but with a much more personal, client-focused approach. The goal is always the same: to create spaces that genuinely work for the people using them.

Q:
What do you love most about working on homes and extensions?

It’s the personal connection. No two families are the same, and every brief is unique. I love sitting down with clients and asking about their routines, their family life, even little things like where they like to have coffee in the morning. Those conversations help me understand what they need sometimes in ways they haven’t fully realised themselves. It’s about unlocking the potential of a home and helping people achieve something they didn’t think was possible.

Q:
What makes Solent Architecture different?

I think it’s the mix of creativity, technical knowledge, and collaboration. Clients aren’t just hiring a designer, they’re getting a partner to help guide them through the whole process. I take the time to understand their goals and then work closely with them from concept to completion, making sure the design not only looks great but functions beautifully. And because I’ve worked on both big and small projects, I know how to balance ambition with practicality.

Q:
What areas do you serve, and what types of projects do you typically take on?

I’m based in Hampshire and work across Sussex as well. Most of the projects I take on involve home extensions, renovations, and new builds, especially for homeowners who want to adapt or grow their spaces in a thoughtful, stylish, and functional way.

Q:
Any advice for homeowners thinking about starting a project?

Start with a conversation. You don’t need to have all the answers ,just an idea of what you want to change or improve. The earlier we talk, the more I can help you shape your ideas into a workable plan. And always remember that good design isn’t just about how a space looks, it’s about how it works for your life.

Thank you, Rachel!