About Us
Modarc was created by Jim Larcombe whose aim is to provide comprehensive and professional service in architectural design utilising modular building and modern methods of construction (MMC).
Jim was born and raised in the West Dorset seaside town of Lyme Regis. He attended Exeter College where he completed his ONC and HNC in Building Studies. Whilst attending college, he served his apprenticeship at two reputable West Dorset based architectural companies. At the age of 20, he decided to become self employed and began his own architectural practice.
Jim comes from a long line of family within the building industry, with five generations having forged successful building careers in and around Lyme Regis dating back to the mid 1800s. The business was based in Lyme Regis for many years until relocating to Somerset in 2019 which has allowed him to expand the business and network of contacts.
Since Modarc was established, it has successfully completed a number of exciting projects throughout the country, mainly in the South West area. Some of the projects designed include contemporary replacement dwellings, new build SIPs / timberframe homes, large extensions / loft conversions to existing properties, redevelopment of a passivhaus, change of use and remodel from commercial properties into residential, barn conversions, and planning for a new industrial estate.
Modarc has also been pleased to work with local communities and assist with the design of projects, such as planning of a new school building and an extension and redevelopment to local sporting facilities.
Meet the Team
Jim Larcombe
Director & Architectural Designer
“Architecture is more than just a job, it’s a passion, a way of life. I live, eat and breath architecture and building. It’s not a 9-5 working in architecture, when an idea comes, you have to see where you can take it. I treat each client with exactly the same approach, yet my designs are tailored to their exacting standards.
"Whilst I love the modern style of architecture and exceptionally passionate about modular building, this is not possible everywhere. There is nothing more exciting than seeing a project evolve day by day using high quality craftspeople.
"I like to try and push the boundaries with the design, whether it may be budget or style. I like to open up those little areas within peoples mind, where they have never thought of going before. This doesn’t mean I forgot the original brief, however I will suggest opportunities to you.”
Rachel Pugh
Office Assistant
Rachel joined the company in February 2019. She works for ModArc part-time assisting with all office base duties, accounts and also joining Jim on surveys when possible.
She spends the rest of the week in her local supermarket supporting in the HR office.
What our Clients think
"Modarc were excellent from start to finish.
Some great ideas were incorporated from the outset, resulting in a sympathetic design that satisfied all the planning requirements.
Very professional and more than happy to recommend Jim and the Modarc team"
Chris – Axmouth, Devon.
"Modarc provided a swift and very efficient service helping us to obtain all the necessary permissions for building in a timely manner.
Jim is not just helpful but goes the extra mile with a calm and reassuring approach”
Phillip – Uplyme, Devon.
“Having personally worked with Modarc on a couple of projects including a substantial remodel and extension, we have found their services to be first class throughout from initial conceptual design through to completion.
Highly recommended”
NDC developments – Whitchurch, Dorset.
“I had previously worked with two architects who failed to capture the brief; I was introduced to Jim via a mutual contact and Jim’s passion and creativity quickly shone through.
The planning process was incredibly slow (in part as a result of the highly sensitive area I was building in) but he seamlessly navigated us the through the system.
Modarc is a fantastic practise that is creative, professional and pragmatic, and great value for money, too”
Tristan – Lyme Regis, Dorset.
“We submitted planning for an extension through another company a few years ago but the original plans had elapsed. We contacted Modarc to resubmit our plans which was done effortlessly.
Modarc moved very quickly to help us when we needed something done fast and without further hassle. If you have a large build to do and you want people with a calm persona and professionalism to help you achieve your vision, Jim offered us all of that and more."
Andrew – Rousdon, Devon
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