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Writer's pictureTheo Petrides

What A21 Means; Evolution & Origin of Our Practice...

Updated: Oct 30



A21architects evolved for reasons beyond simply wanting to top the Yellow Pages…


The practice's journey reflects a history of architectural collaboration, its roots trace back to the 1980s when George Petrides and Narinder Assi practiced as Assi Petrides Architects. Their office was in the now demolished office block overlooking Islington Green. This partnership evolved into Agenda 21 Architects in the 1990s, embracing sustainable design principles inspired by the UN's Agenda 21 initiative.


The UN’s Agenda 21 initiative was a comprehensive action plan adopted at the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED). This framework addresses global issues related to sustainable development, informing the architectural approach of the firm. By incorporating these principles, the practice positioned itself at the forefront of environmentally conscious design, aligning its work with international efforts to tackle environmental and development challenges.




The UN’s Agenda 21 outlines key principles for sustainable development in the 21st century:

  • Combating poverty and promoting social equity

  • Changing unsustainable consumption patterns

  • Protecting and promoting human health

  • Conserving and managing resources for development, including atmospheric protection and biodiversity conservation

  • Strengthening the role of major groups, including women, youth, and indigenous peoples

  • Promoting sustainable human settlements


At A21Architects, these principles influence our building design and construction practices by emphasizing energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources, sustainable material selection and waste reduction, the integration of green spaces, a focus on occupant health and well-being, and the encouragement of participatory approaches in urban development.


In 2011, the firm underwent the most recent transformation after George and Narinder went their separate ways after over 30 years of working together. George Petrides established A21Architects, later joined by Theo Petrides in 2021. Narinder Assi opened Agenda 21 Architects Studio Ltd.


This shared history enriches our expertise as A21Architects forges its own path in modern sustainable design. A21Architects continues to build on its project base, integrating sustainable practices with innovative design solutions to address contemporary architectural challenges.

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