What Defines A House’s Form?
House Form
/haʊs fɔːm/
Definition. The physical and spatial character of a house shaped first and foremost by the client and their needs, with design decisions arising from how the home must function for the people who inhabit it.
At House Form, we believe the shape and character of a home should always start with the people who will live in it - you. Every project begins with your needs and the way you want your home to work for you.
Alongside this, there are common values that run through all our work: sustainability, a respect for the setting, and the use of traditional materials in a contemporary way. The result is homes that feel familiar and comfortable, rooted in our architectural heritage, but designed with the benefits of modern living and low-energy performance in mind - including Passivhaus principles where appropriate.
We aim to make architecture clear and approachable. Good design should solve problems, not create them. Through a collaborative and transparent process, we help you navigate planning, manage costs, and shape a home that is sustainable, practical and tailored to your budget.
Working across Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire, Hampshire and Warwickshire, we create houses and extensions that are simple, elegant and cost-conscious - homes that make sense for you, your family, and their surroundings.
James Campbell
Managing Director
An ARB Registered Architect, James brings extensive experience in bespoke residential design, with a career dedicated to creating high-quality homes that reflect the individuality of each client. His portfolio demonstrates a consistent ability to secure planning approvals and to guide projects smoothly through the often complex regulatory landscape, ensuring compliance at every stage.
James has successfully overseen projects from concept to completion, working closely with consultants, contractors, and local authorities to deliver homes that are both beautifully designed and technically robust. His approach balances creativity with a practical understanding of construction, ensuring that design aspirations are translated into built reality with care and precision.
Passionate about residential architecture, James is committed to producing distinctive, well-crafted designs that enhance both lifestyle and place. At House Form, he looks forward to continuing this focus, bringing fresh insight and leadership to projects, while championing design excellence and client-centred service.
Andrew Badley
Managing Director
Andrew is a architect with experience delivering bespoke homes across the South and East of England. Before relocating to Cambridge, he was part of the award-winning team at AR Design Studio in Winchester, working on high-quality projects tailored to complex briefs and sensitive sites. I then developed my expertise at MCW Architects, focusing on modern construction methods, digital tools, and sustainable design principles.
As a Certified Passivhaus Designer, I bring specialist knowledge in creating homes that are exciting to live in, energy efficient, and comfortable. Through House Form, I offer accessible and sustainable home design at a more personal scale. I combine the rigour of technical design with a clear, client-first approach, delivering cost-conscious residential architecture that makes sense both environmentally and economically.
At the heart of my work is problem-solving. Every client comes with their own challenges, from planning constraints to technical demands. I believe the best architecture finds creative, practical answers that enhance daily life. As Charles Eames put it, “We don’t do art. We solve problems.” That philosophy guides my approach, ensuring each home is designed not just to look good, but to work beautifully for the people who live in it.
Matt
Non-Executive Director
Matt is an architect based in Ely, specialising in sustainable and sensitive new build houses and extensions. Before merging with House Form, I ran Cocoon Architects for nine years, and I now help to guide the business as it continues to grow.
Alongside shaping projects, I enjoy mentoring the team and sharing the knowledge I’ve built up over the years. When time allows, I get hands-on with the architecture itself. Exploring creative ideas with clients and helping to turn them into homes that feel exciting, comfortable, and sustainable. My designs draw on Passivhaus principles, balancing natural light, characterful materials, and long-term performance to create homes that people truly love to live in.
What I value most is the collaborative nature of the work. Whether it’s supporting colleagues, listening to clients, or engaging with consultants, I believe the best results come from open dialogue and shared problem-solving. That way, every project becomes a genuine team effort. Delivering homes that feel personal, thoughtful, and enduring.