More about Daniel – Upland Architect

Find out a little more about me, the Upland Architect

'Architecture should speak of its time and place, but yearn for timelessness' – Frank Gehry

Daniel Bland BA(Hons) Arch, Pg.Dip.Arch, ARB, RIBA

Prior to my University training, I worked along side my father a joiner by trade, but who was also a general builder. This gave me a great practical foundation for understanding construction, detailing and an appreciation of the importance of a good construction team. I have a respect for traditional architecture and passion for creative conservation evolved from having worked for Yorkshire based Francis Johnson & Partners, a firm of Architects renowned for their design of new buildings in traditional styles and the scholarly repair of historic buildings.

I studied Architecture at The Leeds School of Art, Architecture and Design and also the University of Nottingham Department of Architecture and Built Environment. Whilst studying, I maintained a practical hands-on interest in architecture and conservation by working at the 18th Century Harewood House; a Grade 1 Listed Country House designed by Architects John Carr and Robert Adam.

After leaving University I worked as an Architect for Derbyshire based Architects; Anthony Short and Partners. It was here that I was able to demonstrate my talents as an Architect in designing new buildings which complemented the local vernacular and intricate extensions to Listed Buildings with a contemporary flare. Situated within the beautiful landscape of the South Pennines, there was no shortage of traditional farm buildings and barn conversions for me to be involved with their repair and conversion using natural building materials.

In 2012 I relocated back to my home county of Yorkshire, to follow my aspirations in promoting the repair and reuse of buildings - using traditional building skills and renewable technologies.

What clients say about my work...

We presented Daniel with a challenging project to create access to our landlocked property. Due to the nature of the property, this involved the construction of a bridge from the highway. Throughout the process there was strong resistance from the neighbouring properties and the Parish Council. Despite this Daniel remained professional and was extremely calming throughout, suggesting numerous alternative solutions to achieve our goal.

He represented us at the final committee meeting and successfully achieved planning consent for our plans. We would definitely use Daniel for any future projects and have no hesitation in recommending him.

Martin and Alison Verity
Daniel has been an invaluable asset when designing an extension to turn our house into a home. He was always happy to answer my questions, took time to explain and kept me informed at every step of the process. His diligence ensured the proposals were granted planning approval despite the challenges of a Conservation Area and several neighbourhood objections. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him.

Amanda Fox
We have worked with Dan on several projects now. Dan’s knowledge of listed buildings is impressive and we really appreciate and respect his thorough diligence and constant drive to refine details. His calm demeanour means he takes the stress out of projects for us and he is never scared to challenge us to push the design boundaries.

Henry and Richard Miller-Robinson
On our first visit from Daniel we knew he was for us. We liked his personal, enthusiastic approach straight away. He loved to get stuck in and get his hands dirty – that’s what we liked, a down-to-earth hardworking gentleman.

If we ever had any problems or concerns we knew all we had to do was to call and he would put our minds at ease, and it would be dealt with. His attention to detail particularly during the building works was second to none. We are really pleased with the transformation of our building, particularity the reinstatement of the Victorian façade which Daniel based on historic research. Customers and passers-by regularly comment on what a lovely job has been done, and many remember it in days gone by.

Manny and Julie Ali, M&J Framing