We design spaces and express identity through creative and resourceful thinking.

Winter Jones is a small design studio based in Ruthin, delivering thoughtful, characterful projects for clients across a broad range of sectors.

With over five years of experience across North Wales and the North West, we create thoughtful, design-led solutions for a wide variety of clients — trusted across the region and beyond.

We believe great design should leave a lasting impression without compromising quality, integrity, or care — and that well-executed work can remain both affordable and accessible.

Client relationships are at the heart of what we do. Through a personable, conscientious approach rooted in trust and open communication, every project becomes a collaborative journey shaped by individual needs and ambitions.

Family values influence both our creative process and the way we work. We take pride in delivering meaningful designs that reflect our clients’ aspirations while remaining sensitive to budgets, timelines, and real-world constraints.

 

Robert Jones | Director & Architect

Rob is the practice lead at Winter Jones, combining a vast experience from leading architectural practices with a passion for thoughtful, client-focused design. A qualified architect, registered with the Architect’s Registration Board (ARB) and a chartered member of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), Rob has successfully delivered small and medium-scale public and private sector projects, managing teams and navigating complex challenges.

  • Architects Registration Board (ARB) Registered Member 2019-2025

    Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Chartered Member 2019-2025

    Advanced Diploma in Professional Practice in Architecture (ADPPA) RIBA North West (Chester) 2019

    Post Graduate Diploma (PG Dip) Liverpool John Moores University 2010

    Bachelor of Arts (BA Hons) The University of Liverpool 2007

    A-Levels & GCSE’s Ysgol Brynhyfryd, Ruthin 2002, 2004

  • Winter Jones Director & Architect, Ruthin 2019-Present

    Studio RBA Associate Architect, Liverpool 2022-2024

    The Building Plot Architect, Ruthin 2019-2022

    K2 Architects Associate Architect, Liverpool 2014-2019

    Falconer Chester Hall Part II Architectural Assistant, Liverpool 2014

    Arcadis | IBI Group Part II Architectural Assistant, Hove, Rochdale & Liverpool 2010-2014

    Building Design Partnership (BDP) Part I Architectural Assistant, Liverpool, 2007-2009

  • My path into architecture began with a love of drawing, making, and problem-solving. That hands-on curiosity still drives my work today.

    I grew up in North Wales, shaped by the rural landscape and a strong sense of community. I’ve always been drawn to thoughtful design, characterful places, and projects rooted in purpose rather than ego. I value work that’s honest, creative, and grounded in real life.

    I’ve been living with ulcerative colitis for over a decade, and it’s shaped how I live and work. Managing a long-term condition contributed to my decision to start Winter Jones — not just for creative freedom, but to choose my projects, minimise stress, and focus on doing things well.

    I started Winter Jones to design spaces that feel personal, resourceful, and thoughtful — just like the people who use them. That naturally expanded into other creative areas like branding and websites, having always had an eye for visual identity and web development.

    Running the business in partnership with my wife has been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey. We share the same values and hope to one day pass the practice on to our son.

    Outside of work, I’m a dad, a Ruthin Town FC U7’s coach, and a lifelong Liverpool FC fan. I’ve championed UK hip hop since the early 2000s and have been hooked on podcasts since their inception. I also have a lifelong fascination with UFOs (UAPs) and non-human intelligence — something I continue to follow closely and actively support through efforts toward public disclosure.

  • “Rob demonstrated an excellent understanding of both client and end user needs throughout the development of the Welcome Centre design. He was flexible and adaptable, proposing a range of thoughtful concepts that remained respectful of the site’s heritage while enhancing the visitor experience. Rob consistently offered clear advice and guidance, and his professionalism, honesty, and integrity were evident throughout. His contribution was vital to the success of the project.”

    – Sue Grindrod, Former Chief Executive, Royal Albert Dock

    “Rob led the design on a highly sensitive project for Liverpool ONE that played a key role in completing the estate’s wider masterplan. He was tasked with creating a building that not only stood out but also felt as though it had always belonged there. His commitment, attention to detail, and tenacity in ensuring every element was considered resulted in a project that was both planning-ready and tender-ready. Rob is always professional, respectful, and mindful of the wider team — qualities that consistently lead to excellent outcomes.”

    – Chris Bliss, Former Estate Director, Liverpool ONE

    “Rob has shown a deep understanding of client needs in developing design solutions for several primary school expansion projects. Despite tight budgets and demanding deadlines, he remained flexible and responsive, offering a range of options to suit each brief. Rob consistently provided clear advice, acted with integrity, and upheld a high standard of professionalism across all aspects of the work.”

    – Rob Gilland, Senior Project Manager, Liverpool City Council

Frances Winter | Director & Digital Lead

Fran provides creative and administrative support at Winter Jones, bringing both artistic flair and business acumen to the practice. A Fashion graduate from the University of Liverpool and a former finalist for North West Fashion Designer of the Year. Fran has previously worked in administrative roles for leading architectural practices in the past. She also leads The Botanical Cake Company blending creativity with a practical mindset.

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA Hons) Liverpool John Moores University 2010

    Foundation Diploma in Art & Design – Yale College, Wrexham 2026

    A-Levels & GCSE’s Ysgol Brynhyfryd, Ruthin & St.Brigid’s, Denbigh 2005

  • Winter Jones Director, Ruthin 2021–Present

    The Botanical Cake Company Founder & Cake Designer 2021–Present

    CareTech Office Administrator, Corwen 2023–Present

    Roberts Homes Administrator, Ruthin 2020–2023

    System Group HR Assistant & Business Support, 2016–2019

    Falconer Chester Hall Personal Assistant & Receptionist, 2014–2016

  • Fran studied fashion design at Liverpool John Moores University and has always had a strong eye for visual composition, presentation, and storytelling. Her background in design and communications naturally led her into roles where organisation, creativity, and clarity come together — whether in studio support, client communication, or brand development.

    She is the founder of The Botanical Cake Company, a business that reflects her love of detail and craft, and co-director of Winter Jones where she supports the studio’s creative output and daily operations. Fran is passionate about building something lasting as a family, working closely with Rob and sharing the same values that shape the studio — warmth, quality, and considered design.