ARCHI+BUILD LTD

Executive Summary

ARCHI+BUILD LTD is a micro-entity architectural and construction services firm operating at a modest scale within the competitive UK built environment sector. While financial data shows prudent management and recent improvements in liquidity and net assets, the company remains small with limited capacity compared to typical industry players. Sector trends favor flexible, sustainable design services, presenting opportunities if the company can leverage its agility, though competitive pressures and resource constraints pose ongoing challenges.

ARCHI+BUILD LTD - Analysis Report

Company Number: 12598296

Analysis Date: 2025-07-20 18:36 UTC

1. Industry Classification

ARCHI+BUILD LTD operates primarily within the architectural services sector, classified under SIC code 71111 (Architectural activities). This sector includes firms engaged in designing buildings and other structures, offering consultancy and planning services. The company also touches on construction-related activities under SIC codes 41202 (Construction of domestic buildings) and 41100 (Development of building projects), indicating a degree of vertical integration or diversification into project development and construction. This blend of design and construction-related activities positions ARCHI+BUILD within the broader built environment and construction industry, which is characterized by project-based work, reliance on skilled professionals, and sensitivity to economic cycles affecting real estate and development.

2. Relative Performance

As a micro-entity registered in 2020 with a single employee (the director), ARCHI+BUILD is at the smallest scale of operation within its sector. Its financials show modest growth in net assets from £24,278 at incorporation to £37,388 in 2024, with a positive turnaround in net current assets from a deficit in 2023 (-£2,942) to a surplus in 2024 (£6,548). Fixed assets increased slightly, and current assets saw substantial growth, indicating improved liquidity or receivables management.

Compared to typical architectural firms, which can range from sole practitioners to large consultancies with multi-million turnover and substantial staffing, ARCHI+BUILD is at the low end in terms of scale and financial resources. Industry averages for small and medium architectural firms usually report higher turnover and more significant asset bases, reflecting established client relationships and project backlogs. The absence of detailed turnover or profit figures in micro-entity accounts limits direct profitability comparison, but the stable net asset position and avoidance of liabilities accumulation suggest prudent financial management.

3. Sector Trends Impact

The architectural and construction sectors in the UK have faced mixed conditions recently. Post-pandemic recovery has bolstered demand for residential developments, particularly in domestic building projects, aligning with ARCHI+BUILD’s SIC codes. However, supply chain disruptions, rising material costs, and inflationary pressures continue to challenge margins industry-wide. Sustainability and green building requirements are increasingly influencing design practices, pushing firms towards innovation and compliance investments.

For ARCHI+BUILD, operating as a small, flexible entity may provide agility in adapting to client needs and niche market demands such as bespoke residential projects or sustainable design solutions. However, competitive pressure from larger firms with broader service offerings and deeper capital may limit its ability to scale rapidly or take on large contracts. The company’s location in Portsmouth may also influence market dynamics, given regional variations in construction activity across the UK.

4. Competitive Positioning

ARCHI+BUILD’s strengths lie in its focused, small-scale operation with a hands-on director who likely manages project delivery directly, reducing overheads. Its micro-entity status allows simplified filing and lower administrative burdens, beneficial for early-stage growth. The increase in net current assets and asset base in 2024 indicates financial stabilization and potential readiness for moderate expansion.

Weaknesses include limited human resources (only one employee), which constrains project capacity and diversification. The small asset base and capital structure may hinder access to larger contracts or financing. Compared to sector peers, especially small to medium architectural firms, ARCHI+BUILD may lack brand recognition, extensive client networks, and the ability to leverage economies of scale. Additionally, operating in a competitive market with many established firms requires strong differentiation, which is not evident from the available data.

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