Colin Usher . Bsc

HONS

. Dip Arch

• Designing Buildings That Improve Lives • Microtecture is led by me, Colin Usher — an architect with a long standing commitment to creating buildings that are comfortable, healthy and exceptionally energy efficient. My work is rooted in the belief that good design should serve people first, while also caring for the planet we all share. For more than 30 years I’ve been exploring how thoughtful architecture, careful detailing and a deep understanding of building physics can transform the way we live. ________________________________________ A Career Shaped by Curiosity and Care My architectural journey began in 1986, and over the decades I’ve worked on a wide range of projects — from homes and community buildings to large scale developments. What has remained constant is my fascination with how buildings actually perform once people move in. That curiosity led me to specialise in ultra low energy design, drawing inspiration from the Passive House standard and the wider fabric first movement. I’ve seen first hand how better buildings can reduce energy use, improve comfort and support long term wellbeing. ________________________________________ A Personal Project That Became a Living Laboratory In 2018, my wife Jenny and I built our own home — a project that has shaped everything I now do. We wanted a house that was warm, quiet, light filled and affordable to run. The result exceeded our expectations. Living in the building every day has given me invaluable insight into: • How design decisions translate into real world comfort • The importance of airtightness and ventilation • The value of simplicity over complexity • How small details make a big difference Our home has become a practical demonstration of what’s possible when design and performance work together. ________________________________________ What I Believe Architecture is not about grand gestures. It’s about creating places that feel right — places that support daily life, nurture wellbeing and tread lightly on the earth. My approach is guided by a few simple principles: • Listen first — every client, site and project is unique • Design with purpose — beauty and performance should work together • Keep things simple — complexity rarely improves comfort • Use evidence — decisions should be grounded in physics, not fashion • Think long term — buildings should serve generations, not decades ________________________________________ Why I Started Microtecture After years of working in larger practices, I founded Microtecture to focus on what matters most to me: helping people create homes that genuinely improve their lives. I work closely with clients, offering a personal, thoughtful service that blends architectural experience with technical expertise. Whether you’re planning a new build or improving an existing home, I can guide you through the process with clarity, honesty and care.