For more than four decades IID Architects, formally known as ‘Initiatives In Design’, has been a quiet but influential force in shaping educational spaces across the UK. Founded in 1984 the practice, which is located within the Business Improvement District of Richmond Upon Thames, began as a general architectural studio with a strong community focus.
Today, under the leadership of four Directors, Nick Rich, Gareth Box, David Brown and Richard Matthews, IID has grown into a recognised specialist in education design - working with both independent and state schools to meet the challenges of an ever-changing educational environment.
What sets IID Architects apart is not only its technical expertise but its ethos. The team’s work regularly involves Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas, Green Belt land and other challenging contexts. Over the years, this has helped them develop an approach rooted in imagination, respect and a deep awareness of place. Buildings are crafted not simply to be visually striking, but to feel meaningful and attuned to their use and surroundings.
At the centre of the practice’s philosophy is a genuine commitment to attentive, enthusiastic and personal service. Many of their client relationships have lasted more than 25 years- a testament to trust, collaboration and consistently delivered quality. The fact that most commissions come through referrals or repeat clients speaks volumes about the relationships they nurture and the impact of their work.
A Richmond Story: 42 Years in the Borough
IID Architects has been part of the Richmond upon Thames community for over four decades, with an unbroken 42-year history rooted in the borough’s distinctive charm. The decision to settle here was shaped by the original founders’ connection to the area, as well as its unique balance of accessibility and character. Richmond offered excellent transport links, a strong local identity and a setting that felt aligned with the practice’s values.
Gareth Box, one of the four Directors at IID explains further:
“Having met at Manning & Clamp Architects on Richmond Green back in the 1970s, the founding Directors Alan Brown and Chris Box decided to set up on their own in 1984, remaining in the same area. Even then Richmond offered the creative energy of a London location but in a more tranquil setting. Its attractive environment and affluent demographic proved fertile ground for IID’s business, resulting in numerous residential projects locally as well as the much-loved Flower Kiosk on Lower George Street. We have grown in reach since but our roots remain strongly in Richmond to this day.”
The setting of Richmond has also played an active role in supporting IID Architects’ business goals. With a thriving high street, a wide choice of cafés, restaurants and shops, well-equipped gyms and a wealth of outdoor spaces, the local amenities contribute directly to staff wellbeing and work–life balance. Richmond is not merely a place to work - it is a place where people enjoy spending time.
This quality of life has had a measurable impact on the company’s ability to both attract and retain talent. The team reports high levels of employee satisfaction, and the ease of access to clients and project sites has been another significant advantage. Impressively, the practice notes that it has encountered no major challenges operating in the area.
Community Connections and Business Culture
While the wider business community in Richmond is more visibly connected in the retail sector, IID Architects has still found meaningful ways to engage. Director Nick Rich regularly joins the Club Peloton Friday morning cycle rides through Richmond Park, providing what he says is “an informal but valuable link with other local professionals and organisations.”
The character and lifestyle of Richmond also filter directly into IID’s company culture. The team makes frequent use of the borough’s cafés, pubs, shops and green spaces, embedding the locality into their rhythm of work. A recent team outing included a restaurant dinner followed by drinks in a few local pubs and is just one example of how the area helps cultivate a sociable, supportive and collegiate working environment.
IID Architects is focused on thoughtful, sustainable growth. The team aims to expand its workload while continually raising the quality of its architecture and maintaining its hallmark personal service. Strengthening long-standing client relationships remains a priority, alongside developing internal talent and retaining the expertise that has grown within the practice.
Although education remains a core specialism, the practice is exploring careful diversification into commercial and residential projects- an evolution that builds on the same values of quality, context and craftsmanship.
As for Richmond’s future as a business hub, IID Architects hopes the area will continue to evolve as a high-quality, lifestyle-led centre- avoiding the pitfalls of large-scale commercialisation that can erode personality and charm.
When asked what advice they would offer to other businesses considering the borough, the team speaks from experience: understand the area, consider how it aligns with your organisation’s needs, and approach the community with intention. With thoughtful planning, Richmond can be a deeply rewarding place to establish and grow a business.