Founded by architect and interior designer Adnan Jasrai, the Leigh-based company is known for its seamless blend of technical excellence, visual creativity, and hands-on site knowledge, all wrapped into one service-led, client-focused model.
We catch up with Adnan who founded the business three years ago and has made Leigh his home.
‘I studied architecture at UCL, but my journey into this started much earlier. My father was a building contractor, and growing up, I was constantly on site. I picked up carpentry skills at a young age and seriously considered becoming a full-time carpenter. But when it came time to choose, I pursued architecture, which allowed me to merge creativity with construction.’
That practical background is what makes A Designs Ltd truly unique. ‘We don’t just draw plans and walk away. We’ve built, fitted, and transformed homes ourselves — so our designs are grounded in real-world delivery, not just theory. Most architects don’t get their hands dirty, but I have and still do.’
This client wanted an updated layout to convert the house into multi-unit luxury flats and also update the facade and look of the house, A Designs has certainly delivered in inspiration Building on modern principles…
Recognised as one of Essex’s top 10 architectural and design firms, working on residential, interior, and full refurbishment projects across the UK. The business has grown rapidly, largely due to its modern approach to 3D design.
‘Many local practices still rely on outdated 2D methods and lack visual clarity,’ Adnan explains. ‘We brought in photorealistic 3D renders and immersive visuals that allowed clients to truly understand what they were getting. It changed everything.’
Other architecture firms now outsource their 3D visualisations to A Designs, recognising the impact it has on client approval and planning success.
Adnan moved from London to Leigh in 2021 and noticed a clear gap in the local market. ‘Architects here were either unaffordable or weren’t offering comprehensive, integrated services. We came in to bridge that and that’s what’s driven our rapid growth.’
Views from every angle help clients to visualise their home and its surroundings Prominent projects?
One of the company’s proudest Essex-based projects is The Willows, a large property on a one-acre plot in Billericay.
‘When we first visited, the house had been untouched for years. The owners had just bought it, but no one had lived there in a long time. It was in complete disrepair.’
The team began by conducting a full structural survey and measured site analysis. A double-storey side extension was proposed and submitted to planning, while the internal refurbishment works were launched immediately.
‘This client went for our full-service package — architecture, interiors, cutting lists, kitchen and bathroom design, full layout reconfiguration and a complete fit-out,’ says Adnan.
The project also included an annexe conversion, turning what was once a disjointed space — a garage, mini flat, and a back storage room — into a cohesive setup with a games room and summer house.
‘Because the property backs onto greenbelt land, we faced planning challenges,’ he adds, ‘but we worked within the constraints, used the land’s natural slope to our advantage, and delivered something truly special.’
High-profile projects?
A Designs Ltd has also worked with a number of celebrity clients, including a custom podcast studio designed for an entertainment personality, luxury media wall installation for a well-known footballer and a full architectural and interior overhaul of a celebrity couple’s dream countryside home – Grange Farm Cottage, which now stands as one of the firm’s flagship properties.
Discretion prevents Adnan from naming names, but he says ‘We’ve been lucky to work with clients who trust our eye, but also our ability to deliver at a premium standard. Whether high-profile or not, we treat every home as if it were our own.’
Impressive aerial views provide an all-round perspective What makes A Designs different?
‘We don’t design in isolation, we design with buildability in mind.
‘Our team doesn’t just prepare drawings, we manage the design, assist with planning, offer interior design, and even handle the fit-out. That end-to-end service is what makes us different.’
At home with Adnan…
Adnan lives in a Victorian semi-detached in Leigh, which he’s gradually transformed into one of the standout properties on the road.
‘It’s a live project,’ he says. ‘We’ve completed a loft conversion, are currently building a single-storey rear extension, and have fully redesigned the interior, from luxury wardrobes to custom media walls and a carefully crafted kitchen.’
He’s also currently fitting out a nursery, with his first child due in October. ‘This home reflects our design values, timeless structure, functional spaces, and personal touches that elevate everyday living.’
Impressive aerial views provide an all-round perspective Case study
Another landmark project is a transformative residential scheme in Chigwell, which has been a testament to both the company’s architectural persistence and client’s bold vision.
‘This one has been a journey,’ says Adnan. ‘It’s one of the biggest private residential projects we’ve taken on and it’s still ongoing. The goal was to completely modernise and double the size of an existing detached home, turning it into a luxury residence with both style and substance.’
The process began over a year ago, navigating through a challenging planning process that involved multiple submissions, design iterations, and engagement with the local authority. ‘It took us 12 months to get the planning approvals through, side extensions, rear extensions, loft conversion, landscaping, it was a full-scale masterplan.’
Now well into construction, the property is undergoing a comprehensive transformation, including a double-storey rear and side extension, full loft conversion with bespoke staircase design and internal structural reconfiguration to create open-plan living spaces. A 50k luxury kitchen, fully bespoke and integrated with smart systems, will also have extensive use of marble stonework in the kitchen areas, utility, and across bathrooms.
A full landscape architecture package, including a custom-designed swimming pool, BBQ zone, fire pit, and outdoor entertainment area completes the project.
The interiors are being handled in-house by the A Designs team, with curated design schemes for each bedroom, living area, and even circulation spaces. From tailored lighting layouts to custom joinery and soft furnishings, every detail is being considered and fitted by the same team that designed it.
‘We don’t just hand over drawings. We’re there on site, reviewing the installation, making real-time refinements, and ensuring the final product is exactly as envisioned.’
This holistic approach – architecture, interiors, and execution – is what makes the Chigwell project a signature showcase of the studio’s full capabilities.
‘Chigwell has become one of those projects that reflects who we are. A client with vision, a property with potential, and a team that doesn’t stop until it’s perfect. We’ve built strong relationships here and we know the finished result is going to be something really special – a home with wow factor, but also warmth and function.
‘Stay tuned… this one’s going to set a benchmark.’
Top 10 tips
1. Prioritise natural light – use roof lanterns, bi-folds, and slimline windows wherever possible.
2. Invest in smart storage – built-ins save space and create cleaner lines.
3. Always use 3D visuals – they transform the decision-making process.
4. Mix modern with period – especially in Victorian homes, it’s the perfect balance.
5. Think about first fixes early – plan plumbing, waste and power around your final layout.
6. Avoid overdesigning – let the space breathe and speak for itself.
7. Partner with reliable trades – quality trades make the biggest difference on site.
8. Take time with flooring – it ties the entire house together visually.
9. Use zoning in open plan areas – lighting, ceiling height and layout define spaces.
10. Work with a team that understands buildability – it saves time, money and stress.
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