We are Spruce Architecture
The story so far
Founded in 2014, Spruce Architecture began when Phill Brady started offering AutoCAD and architectural drawing support to larger firms. Before long, his talent and dedication led to securing independent projects – and from there, the business quickly took off.
From day one, the goal was simple: offer honest advice, great design and practical solutions for real people and real buildings.
Since then, we’ve grown steadily, taking on a mix of projects and building a friendly, talented team. We’re proud of how far we’ve come, but our values haven’t changed. We still believe in clear communication, clever ideas and creating spaces that feel just right for you.
Meet the team
DirectorPhill Brady
BA (Hons)I founded Spruce Architecture in 2014, but my architecture journey kicked off in 2005. After graduating with honours in Architectural Technology, I joined a firm in Eastbourne as a partner. There, I gained hands-on experience in both residential and commercial projects.
In 2013, I decided it was time for a change and stepped into the world of building contracting. That hands-on experience gave me a new perspective on architecture. Before long, I was doing what I love: designing great spaces.
I started Spruce with one clear goal: to provide honest advice, intelligent design and practical solutions that help real people. Since then, the team and our projects have grown. We’ve moved from small extensions to complex commercial builds and everything in between.
Outside the studio, I’m usually off on adventures with my wife, listening to music or trying to master golf.Connect with Phill
AssociateAshley Phillips
BA (Hons)I grew up in Eastbourne and studied Architecture and Environmental Design in Sheffield.
With over 10 years of experience, I’ve worked on all sorts of projects. My real passion is creating homes that are both practical and full of personality. I love using materials, colour and clever design ideas to help people bring their dream spaces to life.
Outside of work, I coach my son’s football team, which Spruce now proudly sponsors. I also do a lot of charity work. A Parent Teacher Association trustee. A volunteer Treasurer at a primary school. Plus, there’s the National Association of Round Tables (think: The WI, but for guys!)Connect with Ashley
AssociateMike Light
BA (Hons)I grew up in Peacehaven on the Sussex coast and got hooked on architecture early. I studied Construction at GCSE and A-level. Then I completed my degree in Architectural Technology in Brighton.
After working for myself and other firms, I joined Spruce Architecture and love it. Now, I help guide projects from the first sketches to the final sign-off. I’m a practical, hands-on designer who always focuses on how things come together on site.
I’m especially interested in prefabricated homes and the rise of off-site construction. This shift is fascinating, and it’ll play a significant role in how we build.
When I’m not drawing, I play football, ride my mountain bike or fish in a quiet spot.Connect with Mike
Architectural DesignerRob Threlfall
BA (Hons) Dip ArchMy love for architecture started with Lego as a child. I built tiny worlds and solved problems in 3D, one brick at a time. My early curiosity led to my graduation from Northumbria University in Architectural Design and Management (RIBA Part 1) and was awarded a regional RIBA award for my Eco Home Project. I then completed my Postgraduate diploma (RIBA Part 2) at Liverpool John Moore’s University.
Clever design can do more than just look good. It can make life better. Architecture has the power to boost wellbeing, tackle inequality and fight climate change.
I’d love to see architecture become more open to the public. I want better education in schools, especially around sustainability, renewables and zero-carbon design.
I’ve worked on all sorts of projects. Cosy home extensions. University dorms. And master planning entire Australian and Nigerian cities.
When I’m not in the studio, I’m often behind a camera. Or I might be on the hockey pitch with Brighton & Hove or racing something with wheels.Connect with Rob
Operations ManagerLydia Bayes-Guilbaud
BSc (Hons)I grew up on the south coast of England and studied business management at Surrey University. Then I jumped into sales, project management and operations. Over the years, I’ve started, run and sold businesses that are still going strong years later.
From fine-tuning processes to tech, I make sure the whole Spruce machine works as it should. This way, the architects can get on with doing what they do best. To keep levelling up, I’m also studying for a Master’s in Strategic Management.
When I’m not working I’m often in the West End, musical theatre has a soft spot in my heart. I grew up performing on the stage so now I enjoy sitting back and watching the professionals.Connect with Lydia
Architectural DesignerMarina Bekhit
BSc (Hons)I grew up in Egypt, surrounded by some of the world’s most incredible architecture. This naturally sparked a sense of wonder and curiosity. My early fascination took me to the University of Brighton, where I studied architecture and never looked back.
I’ve worked on private homes, healthcare facilities and master planned for over 10 acres. One of the highlights? Designing care homes. Thoughtful architecture can make a real difference to people’s lives, especially as we age.
I’m all about creating spaces that feel as good as they look. I love exploring the details – materials, colours and architectural styles. And creating homes that aren’t just beautiful, but suit the people living in them.
When I’m not designing, I try to make time for hobbies, like getting creative with custom string art portraits. But as a mum of two, their hobbies are my hobbies!Connect with Marina
ArchitectDavid Kemp
I was born in Hove and studied Architecture at Brighton Polytechnic (now University). I worked in a number of practices both as a staff member and freelancer on a wide range of projects.
In 1990 having spent a year back-packing around the world, I set up as a sole practitioner and then later with staff as DK Architects Ltd. Whilst we worked in a number of sectors, it was mainly for residential refurbishment and modernisation projects (which were often in heritage settings or Listed) and a number of new builds homes that we were best known. My ethos is always to get to know the owner and understand their aspirations. I then try to distill an optimised design that turns their building project into a home that will become the backdrop of their family lives – hopefully, packed full of great moments. The practice won a number of awards from the Sussex Heritage Trust, LABC and others over the years. I like to think that they are a marker of consistently good, quality work.
The three main architectural influences on me: Andrea Palladio, Berthold Lubetkin + Tecton and Carlo Scarpa.
I reached a stage when a change of direction was the right thing to do. I am truly delighted to have found a place within Spruce and hope to contribute where I can to their future ongoing success.
Outside of Architecture I love art, photography, and sport generally. I started an interest in athletics about 14 years ago and specialise in Duathlon (run bike run). I have qualified and participated in age group races for GB. So, never too late to start something new and as someone once said in Latin – ‘seize the day.’Connect with David
ArchitectChristian Corder-Courtier
BA (Hons) PGDip, PGDip (MPL Arch), ARB, RIBAI grew up on the south coast of Sussex and studied here, too. It’s always felt like home. My first taste of construction came from my Grandad, a local builder who sparked my interest in how things were made.
That curiosity never left, and here I am – still drawing and making it real. For over 20 years, I’ve worked all over the UK – from brand-new churches to beautiful buildings steeped in history.
I’ve got a soft spot for timber frames. I love working with natural materials like stone, glass and oak to add texture and warmth.
I’m probably watching Brighton & Hove Albion F.C. or on the golf course if I’m not on-site or buried in drawings. Or getting extreme with skydiving, bungee jumping and whitewater rafting.Connect with Christian
Happy clients
We have used Spruce Architecture to produce architectural floor layouts in the past and found them to be very good. The company has a friendly and approachable ethos and we would not hesitate in using them again on future projects.
Matthew Symmonds
DirectorSouthdown SurveyorsPresentation is critical in our profession and Phill Brady impresses all of us at Parker Dann with his attention to detail and presentational skills. We also find Phill quick to respond, competitive on his prices and above all very helpful and easy to work with.
