Green award for firm

Architype was founded in 1984 and established a local practice in 1996. From the ruins of a derelict barn complex owned by the Duchy of Cornwall, Architype has created an inspiring ecological office which it moved into two years ago.

This has provided the springboard to further develop the business approach and the space to expand the business to its current complement of nearly 20 staff.

The judges were impressed by the way in which Architype had "demonstrated the potential for successful locally-based sustainable business in the Herefordshire countryside".

The company was praised for its architectural innovation and for the way it consistently worked hard to improve the sustainablility of the day-to-day running of the business and to support the local Herefordshire economy.

For example, organic lunch is provided for all the staff, delivered to the office from a local cafe, the office heating is provided by locally sourced woodchips and around 50% of the staff cycle to work.

Designing in a sustainable way is fundamental to every building the company designs, with a focus on minimising energy consumption and carbon emissions, careful use of resources and on creating buildings which are healthy to live and work in.

Architype's pioneering work received national recognition last year when it was named Sustainable Architect of the Year and was awarded the prestigious RIBA Sustainability prize.

Projects range from £500k to £20million and include ecological housing and sustainable schools throughout the midlands and south west.

Director Jonathan Hines said: "Sustainability is our driving passion in delivering the highest quality design for our clients, and in running our business.

"We are delighted to receive recognition from the Chamber of Commerce for our approach."

The Chamber judges said: "Architype had developed a fantastically successful sustainable business and built a committed team of people."