About Us
House Gecko was founded in 2009 with a clear vision: to provide a highly considered, personal approach to architectural design and project delivery.
Following a First-Class Honours degree in Spatial Design and several years working within an established architectural practice, founder Leanne Millichap created House Gecko to offer clients a more integrated service—combining creative design, technical expertise, interior design and experienced project leadership.
Today, House Gecko delivers residential, commercial, heritage and developer-led projects, from individual homes, extensions and conversions to more complex building and development schemes. The practice can guide a project from its earliest feasibility and concept stages through planning, Building Regulations, technical design, consultant coordination, tendering, contractor appointment and completion on site.
Leanne leads every project personally, providing clear strategic direction and maintaining close oversight of the design, technical details, project team, budget and programme. This continuity allows decisions to be made with a thorough understanding of the client’s aspirations and the wider demands of the project.
While the practice has grown and evolved since 2009, its founding ethos remains the same: to create distinctive, beautifully considered and buildable spaces, supported by a professional and carefully coordinated service from concept to completion.
House Gecko has worked with many commercial clients and property developers on larger scale projects. Our clients benefit from our expertise and understanding of the importance of time and cost on a commercial and property development projects.
We have built solid, lasting working relationships with other consultants involved in the process, including Structural engineers, Energy assessors, Ecologists, Heritage specialists, Highways engineers, Arborists and Planning consultants as well as Planning Officers in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, Local Authority Building Control Officers (we are an LABC approved partner), Approved Inspectors and trusted local building contractors, which means we can deliver a comprehensive, well-rounded, client-focused service. As our stream of satisfied clients testify, we expertly guide you through all aspects of your project, advising you on the various options and considerations along the way to ensure your project has the most successful and cost-effective outcome possible.
Leanne Millichap BA (Hons) Lead Designer & Founder
Leanne is the founder and Principal Designer of House Gecko, leading the practice and overseeing the design, technical development and delivery of every project. With more than 20 years’ experience across residential, commercial, heritage and developer-led architecture, she brings together strong design leadership, technical expertise and hands-on project management.
Leanne works across all stages of a project, from initial feasibility, briefing and concept design through planning, Building Regulations, technical detailing, consultant coordination, tendering, contractor appointment and completion on site. She leads the wider project team, coordinating specialist consultants, contractors and statutory authorities to manage risk, resolve technical challenges and ensure projects remain aligned with the client’s brief, budget, programme and quality expectations.
She established House Gecko to provide a highly personal, design-led service that combines creative thinking with practical, buildable solutions. Whether transforming a family home, working sensitively with a historic building, delivering a commercial scheme or supporting a developer, Leanne maintains clear strategic oversight while ensuring every detail is carefully considered.
Leanne puts genuine energy and commitment into each commission and builds strong, collaborative relationships with her clients and project teams. Outside the studio, she enjoys morning swims, yoga and long walks in nature with her cockapoo, Bibi.
Meet The Team
Lottie Van Der WONING
Lottie is House Gecko’s Creative and Administrative Assistant, supporting the smooth day-to-day running of the practice. She works closely with Leanne across project administration, client communications, marketing and creative content, helping to keep the business organised and projects moving efficiently.
With a keen eye for detail and a creative approach, Lottie plays an important role behind the scenes, ensuring clients receive a professional, friendly and well-coordinated service throughout their experience with House Gecko.
Outside work, Lottie enjoys spending time outdoors and walking her dogs, Bertie and Rhubarb.