Joe Stuart - Founder / Architectural Designer and Passivhaus Consultant
Joe is driven by innovation and making things better.
Drawing experience from the design and engineering industries, Joe has always been interested and excited by good architecture. Founding Warehome on the back of designing and building his own home in East London, Joe is continually striving to push what is possible in the architectural and construction industries. An education centred around sustainable design has guided Joe to the Passivhaus approach. This, coupled with a client-centred holistic design methodology, results in a home built to last and to be loved.
Formerly completing projects for LOCOG (2012 Olympics), Graze.com and many private clients, Joe has experience in industrial architecture, timber frame buildings, manufacturing processes, fabrication and product design to complement his residential architectural experience
He has project-managed and delivered various scale projects and has given presentations on design, architecture and sustainable construction technologies. He has also been a panel judge for international design awards.
In Joe’s own words:
Coming soon…
If you could, what superhero would you be?
Coming soon…
Rares Mateescu ARB RIBA - Director / Architect
Rares has a passion for art, science and using architecture to improve peoples’ wellbeing.
He has worked on projects in Romania, France and the UK across the residential, commercial and arts sectors. Rares feels that the impact of a well designed home or workspace goes far beyond the time spent in the building, it impacts the way we act across all touchpoints.
Rares studied Architecture at UPT, Timișoara and converted his degree at The AA to gain his ARB accreditation.
Rares is engaged on client projects from inception through to delivery on site. Over the past two years he has been working with Joe to develop some new parametric workflows using automotive design software to further improve the practices capabilities and the quality of client deliverables.
In Rares’ own words:
My childhood adventures building forest huts sparked my architectural passion. Influenced by my grandfather and godfather, both structural engineers, who encouraged my early interest by printing my early drawings, I embraced a career in architecture.
One of my inspirations is Constantin Brancusi, whose journey from Romania to France and the simplicity of his life starkly contrasted with his intricate sculptures. His exceptional work led to him being known as the father of modern sculpture.
Among my favourite buildings is Rem Koolhaas's House in Bordeaux, notable for its multi-level design, clever use of raw materials, and structural challenges, such as a floating, weathered steel box.
Two of my favourite architectural projects to date are; an academic endeavour focused on a Madrid marketplace design that emphasised simplicity and adaptability, and a professional venture, The Burrow, where quality and client collaboration were paramount.
What excites me about architecture is turning client visions into quality, sustainable projects. My drive is to make these visions a reality.
A typical office day includes a coffee kickstart, a well-structured to-do list, a midday leg stretch, and a commitment to creative and technical tasks.
Beyond work, I delve into science and art articles, craft clay pottery, and socialising with friends. I also find excitement in climbing, cycling and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
If you could, what superhero would you be?
In the realm of superheroes, I'd align with Doctor Strange from Marvel. Just as he transitioned into a superhero after a medical career change, I had contemplated a career in neurosurgery due to my fascination with the complexities of the brain.
Ian Angeles Canlas - Architectural Assistant
Ian is as comfortable creating inspiring new concepts with a pen and paper as he is with his iPad or computer.
He draws on his experience growing up in the Philippines and Madrid when bringing new design options to life.
Ian obtained a scholarship to study at the University of Kent and joined Warehome, post completion, in 2022 as an architectural assistant.
Ian’s early work centred around concept development for early stage design progression. He has since been developing his visualisation skills with photorealistic rendering and found a new passion for technical detailing. He love of photography and film making has also inspired the team to better document and celebrate the work being completed in and out of the office.
In Ian’s own words:
From a young age, my artistic passion led me into architecture. My journey began with sketching, evolving into architectural sketching, then complex technical drawings. Growing up in the Philippines exposed me to diverse architectural styles, including indigenous Philippine and Spanish colonial buildings. Later in Spain, I was left in awe by the grandeur of the buildings, specifically in Madrid. Upon moving to the UK, I continued to be inspired by its rich architectural history.
This love for architecture stems from its ability to reflect and influence culture. The opportunity to experience these diverse architectural wonders fuelled my desire to pursue a career in the field.
My inspiration comes from Thomas Heatherwick and David Chipperfield. Heatherwick's creativity sparks my own, while Chipperfield's minimalistic, context-sensitive approach resonates with me.
The Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain, stands as my favourite building, thanks to its rich history, intricate designs, and lush gardens.
My favourite project, worked on so far, is a dwelling on the Isle of Man, which preserves a garden-like atmosphere.
The creative process, meaningful impact, and constant learning excites me about architecture. I aim to create spaces that touch hearts and leave a lasting impression.
A typical office day involves creative meetings, teamwork, and individual work, spiced up with humour and reflection.
Outside of work, I indulge in travelling, sketching, trying new foods, cooking, the gym, and karaoke. These activities keep me engaged and inspired.
If you could, what superhero would you be?
If I were a superhero, I'd choose Ironman for his intelligence, innovation, and dedication to making the world better.