Studio MAY is a practice with an equal focus on both Design and Research. With a background in the History of Architecture, Louis established the practice to meaningfully combine theoretical insight with practical application. MAY is currently a team of three.

The practice deliberately engages with projects of varying scales — from a self-built Walter Segal extension and an accessible boardwalk in Dorset, an exhibition in Milan and larger residential developments across the UK that explore the use of natural and locally sourced materials.

The practice is well versed in building within challenging areas, including AONBs, listed buildings, conservation areas and tight urban spaces.

Collaboration with our clients is key and and the practice always undertakes an extended research period on any project before undertaking a design phase. MAY works between workshops, writing and designing.

Telephone        +44 (0) 7855 012858
Email                 studio@studioMAY.uk

Louis Mayes
Architect ARB RIBA
Louis studied at London Metropolitan University, the University of Reading and the University of Cambridge.

Before founding Studio MAY, Louis worked at several London-based architecture practices, including Karakusevic Carson, Cottrell & Vermeulen, and Emil Eve Architects on a range of masterplan, large scale housing and education projects. He later joined Clementine Blakemore Architects, where he was one of a team of two to design the 2024 Stirling Prize-shortlisted project Wraxall Yard.

As an important extension of practice, Louis has contributed to a number of architectural and peer-reviewed publications. Most recently, he co-authored a piece with Philip Christou for The Hybrid Practitioner, edited by Caroline Voet, Eireen Schreurs, and Helen Thomas.

At Oxford Brookes University, Louis has led a think tank in the form of Unit M in the undergraduate architecture programme for five years. During this time we are proud that three students have been nominated for the RIBA Bronze Medal, with one winning the Architect’s Journal Student Prize in 2024. The unit focuses on the future of the River Thames, addressing the tension between increasing residential development and the erosion of public space along its banks. See examples of the student’s work here.












Past and Present Collaborators:
Alan Milliken
Charlotte Bate
Emily Hadley
Finn Kramer
Luke Vouckelatou
Lou-Adélaïde Feliu