Our name is derived from ‘architecture’ & ‘CO₂’.

Chartered Architect

Certified Passive House Designer

Founder/Director of ADD Sustainable Construction

Ian Armstrong is a RIBA Chartered Architect with a distinguished career dedicated to sustainable architecture.  Educated at Plymouth University School of Architecture.

A proud Cornishman, Ian co-founded ARCO2 Architecture Ltd., where he serves as Director.  He is a passionate and creative architect, specialising in sustainable, low-energy, award-winning dwellings. His expertise extends across a diverse range of sectors, bringing energy, innovation and sustainability to every project.  Ian is also a co-founder and Director of ADD Sustainable Construction Ltd (ADD SC), a company renowned for constructing some of ARCO2’s most distinguished buildings.

Ian’s design ethos is deeply rooted in sustainability, complemented by a strong background in conservation and the use of traditional Cornish vernacular materials.  He has contributed to the development of a sustainable prefabricated building system and has personally designed and built his own non-certified Passive House, which has garnered several prestigious local, national, and international awards.

Director

Certified Passive House Designer

Founder/Director of ADD Sustainable Construction

Nathan John Davis is an accomplished Director with over 25 years of experience in the field of Architecture. As co-founder of ARCO2 Architecture Ltd, Nathan plays a joint pivotal role in managing the architectural practice, ensuring that every project aligns with the company’s commitment to excellence and sustainability. His hands-on approach has been instrumental in developing cutting-edge sustainable practices and designs, earning the firm multiple awards and a reputation as a leader in Cornwall’s architectural landscape.

Nathan’s career has been driven by his passion for design and his deep understanding of Cornwall, where he has made a lasting impact on the built environment. His dedication to sustainable architecture is supported by his achievement of the acclaimed Passivhaus Designer qualification, among other professional certifications.

Educated at Plymouth University, Nathan has continuously advanced his expertise throughout his career. His commitment to architecture is paralleled by his passion for sports, having played hockey at the county level and representing South England during his university years. Although he narrowly missed a place on the England hockey team, this allowed him to focus more intently on his burgeoning architectural career.

Beyond the office, Nathan enjoys surfing, mountain biking, and walking, activities that connect him to the natural beauty of Cornwall. Most importantly, he values the time spent with his family, which brings him true fulfilment in life.

Alan studied at Oxford Brookes University; specialising in Sustainable Building Performance & Design.  He joined ARCO2 in 2005.

Over the past 20 years Alan has developed significant technical knowledge and skills across multiple applications, and with such can produce work ranging from initial concept sketch designs, through to detailed fabrication drawings for production. Outside of the digital realm Alan has good on-site experience with overseeing the construction of bespoke and often hybrid steel and timber frame dwellings.

Outside of work, Alan is undertaking his own extensive home renovation project. This ongoing challenge is contributing to both his practical skills and knowledge, and his understanding of materials and how they are best sequenced together. Any other spare time is spent running, road cycling, mountain biking, or simply exploring the Cornish coastline with his partner.

Chartered Architect

Certified Passive House Designer

Mental Health and Wellbeing Ambassador

Tom joined ARCO2 in 2017 having achieved his RIBA Part III qualification at the University of the West of England, since joining ARCO2 Tom has become an RIBA Chartered Architect and a Certified Passive House Designer. He has worked across the South West and has a wide breadth of experience across multiple sectors, including residential , commercial and healthcare, often working within the constraints of listed buildings and complex planning legislation.

In 2023 Tom became an Associate of ARCO2 Architecture.

When not in the office Tom can usually be found in his workshop restoring motorbikes or trekking around the Cornish countryside.

Joining the team in the summer of 2023. With an impressive 25-year career in architecture, Fiona has cultivated a diverse portfolio that spans the globe, reflecting her dedication to innovative and sustainable design.

Fiona’s architectural journey began at the Mackintosh School of Architecture in Glasgow, followed by advanced studies at the Bartlett School of Architecture (UCL) in London, where she earned her diploma, master’s degree, and completed her Part III qualification. Her early career took her to Hong Kong, where she contributed to high-profile projects like the Chep Lap Kok airport and various residential developments in China.

Back in the UK, Fiona worked with award-winning practices, bringing her expertise in both architecture and interiors to the public, commercial, and private sectors. She has a particular talent for creating beautifully crafted spaces that are as functional as they are magical, consistently demonstrating inventiveness, intelligence, and passion in her work.  Fiona has also held leadership roles in community groups.

After living in Bath and running her own practice, Fiona relocated to Cornwall in 2022 with her young family, where they designed and built their own sustainable home. This move reflects her personal and professional commitment to environmentally responsible design that brings joy to its users and responds to the challenges of climate change.

Beyond architecture, Fiona is embracing new adventures, including sailing, bodyboarding, and DIY projects, adding another layer of creativity and exploration to her life.

Frankie is a recent BSc graduate from the Welsh School of Architecture in Cardiff and is currently undertaking her first year of masters at the same university, where the students have to work as an architectural apprentice alongside university groupwork and curating an individual portfolio for the end of the academic year.

After being introduced to the profession in her year 10’s work experience week at ARCO₂ Architecture Ltd, Frankie was keen to return to the firm for her year in industry due to the company’s vast sustainability ethos and welcoming atmosphere. She also undertook a week’s worth of volunteering on one of ARCO₂’s construction sites in the summer of 2025, working closely with ADD SC and learning about how drawings become the reality.

She has driven all her university projects with maximising sustainability aspects and promoting community benefits, and has a love for any residential design from social housing to individual dwellings. She is eager to learn more about the innovative ideas that ARCO₂ promote, to then relay into her own projects in her final years of the degree.

Emma Spence is Office Manager and PA to the Directors, playing a central role in supporting the day-to-day operations of the business. Working closely with the Directors, clients, suppliers and the wider team, Emma helps ensure projects and business operations run efficiently while maintaining the high standards of organisation, communication and professionalism the company is known for.

With a strong background in administration, client support and business coordination, Emma brings a proactive and detail-focused approach to her role. Her ability to manage multiple priorities, oversee office operations and maintain strong working relationships makes her an integral part of the team. Emma is passionate about delivering excellent client service and supporting the smooth running of projects from initial enquiry through to completion.

Known for her calm and approachable manner, Emma is highly organised and thrives in fast-paced environments where attention to detail and effective communication are essential. She takes pride in supporting both clients and colleagues alike, helping to create a positive and efficient working environment across all areas of the business. Her dedication, reliability and commitment to maintaining exceptional standards make her a valued and trusted member of the team.

Jill has been with ARCO2 since 2004 when she left ‘The Good Life’ behind to come and ‘help with the books’. As the company has grown, Jill has gained invaluable knowledge and experience on subjects such as Employment Law, Construction Industry Scheme, and Health & Safety. Jill was instrumental in gaining ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 accreditations and ensuring that the Quality and Environmental systems are current.  She currently manages the accounts, office procedures and employment for both ARCO2 & ADD SC.

When Jill is not in the office helping to keep both companies running smoothly and sorting out any problems, she may be found at home keeping healthy wielding a hedge cutter, fishing on her boat in Fowey or indulging in clay target shooting.