Welcome to Hormann Architects – a small, passionate design studio in the heart of Falmouth. We love creating unique spaces that bring people together and leave a lasting impression.
To us, architecture is more than just buildings – it’s about storytelling, connection, and creating places where life happens. Every project is a team effort, with clients, designers, and builders all playing a part in shaping something special.
From the first sketch to the finished space, we’re here to turn your ideas into a reality that feels good, works well, and fits beautifully into its surroundings.
"A good Designer, Architect, Baumeister should balance several important factors of a building, including stability & safety, functionality & usability, and aesthetics & stimulation." The last factors aesthetics & stimulation are most difficult to explain and to quantify, however they have a significant impact on our experiences and well-being as humans."
We also work on commercial, retail, and industrial projects – including workspaces, offices, shops, cafés, hotels, production facilities, and developments.
Michael’s architectural background includes a specialisation in industrial design, giving him a strong understanding of production processes and how to create synergy through the principle of form follows function.
Whether you are thinking about buying a property and want to run a feasibility study before you commit, or have particular concerns and questions, please get in touch. We can often suggest alternative solutions to meet your objectives, which may even prove practical and cost effective.
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Dipl.-Ing. Michael Hormann Architect, Engineer, Technician
RIBA / ARB
Michael Hormann is a German technician, engineer, and chartered architect (RIBA) with nearly 20 years of experience in Cornwall and across the UK. His work spans listed building restorations, new builds, conversions, and the adaptation of both residential and commercial spaces.
In the Falmouth area, Michael has contributed to projects such as Jubilee Warehouse, Devoran Old School, Kimberley Park Bandstand, Prislow Woods Boardwalk, and numerous residential extensions and layout reconfigurations. His early career in civil engineering in Germany—working on bridges, roads, and drainage systems—continues to influence his practical and hands-on approach to architectural design.
Michael founded his former company, Märraum, in 2013, where he shaped the architectural direction and identity of the firm. He stepped away from the company in early 2018. The name and many of his original ideas continue to be used by the current owners, despite the fact that they are not architects.
To see more of Michael's work, please visit his portfolio.
See Michael Hormann's Portfolio for a glimpse of his previous projects.
My diverse professional background has taught me to value and respect a wide range of professions, skills, and individuals. I’ve learned to actively listen and understand specific requirements and processes, which has enabled me to develop both creative ideas and practical solutions. However, the most important quality I’ve gained over the years is a can-do attitude. I firmly believe that there is always a solution or a way to overcome any challenge.
My professional journey has been broad and hands-on, shaped by a wide range of experiences across different fields.
It began with a year of community service in a hospital and care home, which gave me a strong sense of responsibility early on. I then trained as a licensed tennis coach, focusing on teaching children, before completing an apprenticeship and working as a civil engineering technician on bridges, roads, and drainage systems. I also spent time on construction sites and in a joinery building exhibitions—experiences that taught me the value of craft and detail.
I studied architecture in Münster (NRW), where I earned my degree as an Engineer in Architecture. During my studies, I supported myself with various jobs—from working in a call centre and warehouse to helping on demolition and building sites. Alongside this, I had the chance to contribute to interesting projects, including border mapping between Saudi Arabia and Yemen, aerial analysis of EU farmland, and internships in media and advertising. I also worked for several architecture practices, including the renowned treehouse studio Baumraum.
Eventually, I moved from Germany to Cornwall to join CAD Architects. Four years later, I founded my own practice, Märraum Architects, in Falmouth.
These diverse experiences have shaped how I approach architecture—with curiosity, practical understanding, and a strong sense of purpose.
SAM LANYON
founder of Concept Shed
engineer and client
Thank you Michael. Without your vision, intelligent design and pragmatism we would not have been able to self-build.
With your expertise, we have a house that not only reflects our aesthetic, but also works to meet our needs as a family. Your guidance and constant support have been vital in realising this project.
CAROLINE COX
Development Director at Robotmother, the client of the "Brain of Brian" barge and the "Jubilee Warehouse" in Penryn
Michael’s visual skills were really valuable. He considered the context of the barge and made sense of the whole area.
KEES TOFT
Client and bandmember of the Wives of Farmer in Cornwall
Michael’s the kind of person who, if he knew you weren’t happy about something, wouldn’t sleep. And that’s rare nowadays. He cares, that’s the key to it.
GEORGE MACKAY
Client and founder of a flower studio in Cornwall
We could not have been happier with Michael’s passion, ideas, expertise and care over our project. He thought out of the box and made every inch of space count.