About

James Leighfield
Founding Director

James formed LSL Architecture in 2017, having previously worked for a few local Somerset Architectural practices.

Becoming Chartered in 2015 from the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT), James enrolled at college via a sponsorship programme through Trevor Spurway (Architect) Ltd to Somerset College to Study Construction as a whole, where he studied, Quantity Surveying, Structural Engineering, Drafting, Technology and many other disciplines, after four years, he qualified with an HNC in Construction.  He worked with Trevor for a further 4.5 years before departing to work for Collier Reading, a practice based in Glastonbury, where he spent 3 years.  James went back to Trevor Spurway (Architect) Ltd where he spent 2.5 years, before moving to Court Design and Conservation where James learnt the principles and conservation principles.  His breadth of knowledge in Listed Buildings plays a key role in day-to-day tasks when renovating, extending or converting spaces into dream homes.

He enjoys the balance between traditional and contemporary architecture creating harmony with the context. Having undertaken schemes across much of the southwest of England, James has become familiar with many of the local authorities and their design protocols and planning requirements.

Outside the office, James is a keen DIYer, and car enthusiast and enjoys spending time with his young family.

Nick Francis
Director

Nick joined LSL Architecture in 2024, having previously worked for ECE Architecture in Sussex for 10 years and Trevor J Spurway in Taunton, Somerset prior where he met James.

As a fully qualified Architect, Nick undertook his studies at Portsmouth and Brighton University completing his courses in 2016. Since 2019 has supported students from both universities through the RIBA mentoring programme to help bring through the next generation of Architects.

During his time in industry, Nick has focused much of his time in the residential sector working on schemes from 5 to 1000 homes, achieving planning consent on several challenging sites. He enjoys the balance between traditional and contemporary architecture creating harmony with the context. Having undertaken schemes across much of the south of England, Nick has become familiar with many of the local authorities and their design & planning requirements.

Outside the office, Nick is a keen triathlete and can often be found outdoors training for his next adventure.

Sam Rooney
Office Manager

Sam joined LSL Architecture in 2019 after relocating from London, where she worked for S&P Architects Ltd for 6 years followed by Lewis & Hickey Architects for 11 years as Office Manager.

Outside the office Sammi enjoys paddle boarding, attending the gym and walking her Springer Spaniel.

Arnie & Beau
Well-being Officers

Arnie and Beau are reliable members of the team bringing enthusiasm and laughter to the workplace.

When they aren’t in the office keeping us on our toes they can be found walking the fields and chasing birds and balls. They have even been known to attend a site visit!