About Structural Designs Limited
An independent structural engineering practice with over 40 years of experience — delivering reliable, professional and cost-effective solutions for every project.
Chris Smaller
MEng CEng FIStructE MICE
Chris Smaller is the founder and director of Structural Designs Limited, bringing over 40 years of structural engineering expertise to every project. Chris graduated from the University of Surrey in 1994 with a Masters in Structural Engineering, and went on to achieve full membership of the Institution of Structural Engineers just three years later — passing first time, a testament to the depth of knowledge and commitment to excellence that has defined his career ever since.
In 2019, Chris was elevated to Fellow of the Institution of Structural Engineers — the highest grade of membership, awarded in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the profession over a sustained career.
Over four decades, Chris has worked across some of the UK's most respected engineering consultancies — from large international practices including Atkins, Scott Wilson and URS, to mid-sized firms such as Thomasons, as well as smaller specialist consultancies. This breadth of experience across every scale of practice gives Structural Designs Limited a rare combination of rigour and agility.
His project experience spans an exceptionally wide range of sectors — complex infrastructure works at Heathrow Airport, award-winning commercial offices including the internationally recognised CABI headquarters, major retail schemes such as the Harvey Nichols store in Leeds, and healthcare facilities. Today, Chris focuses his expertise on the residential sector, working closely with homeowners, developers and architects from initial feasibility through to construction and completion.
"Structural Designs Limited was founded on the belief that clients deserve direct access to senior, highly qualified engineering expertise — without the overhead of a large practice."
Four Decades of Engineering Excellence
MEng Structural Engineering, University of Surrey
Full membership of the Institution of Structural Engineers — passed first time
Elevated to Fellow of the Institution of Structural Engineers
Independent practice based in Guildford, Surrey — serving homeowners, architects and contractors across London and the South East
Notable Projects & Sectors
Our Values
Everything we do is guided by a commitment to quality, honesty and clear communication — from the first conversation to the final sign-off.
Independence
As an independent practice we are free to give honest, impartial advice that is always in the best interests of our clients — not tied to any contractor, supplier or developer.
Experience
Over 40 years of structural engineering practice across residential, commercial and heritage sectors. We have seen it all — and we know how to solve it.
Clarity
We take the time to explain complex structural issues in plain language, so our clients always understand what is happening and why — at every stage of a project.
Reliability
We deliver on time, communicate proactively and are always available to answer questions. Our clients trust us because we do what we say we will do.
Sectors & Project Types
We have extensive experience across a wide range of project types — from straightforward beam calculations to complex multi-phase structural schemes.
- Residential extensions & alterations
- Loft conversions
- New build residential
- Commercial & industrial
- Heritage & Victorian properties
- Wall removals & knock-throughs
- Roof structures
- Party Wall matters
Memberships & Accreditations
All structural designs and calculations are undertaken by, or reviewed by, a Chartered Engineer registered with the following professional bodies.
University of Surrey, 1994
Master of Engineering
A five-year integrated masters degree — the highest level of initial engineering qualification. Chris graduated from the University of Surrey in 1994 with a Masters in Structural Engineering.
Engineering Council
Chartered Engineer
Awarded by the Engineering Council. The benchmark of professional competence in the UK engineering profession, requiring demonstrated expertise, experience and commitment to professional development.
Institution of Structural Engineers
Fellow — awarded 2019
Fellowship is the highest grade of membership of the world's leading professional body for structural engineering, awarded in 2019 in recognition of Chris's outstanding contribution to the profession over a sustained career.
Institution of Civil Engineers
Chartered Member
One of the oldest and most prestigious engineering institutions in the world, recognising professional competence across civil and structural engineering.
Work With Us
Ready to start your project?
Get in touch for a free initial consultation. Based in Guildford, Surrey — we work with homeowners, architects and contractors across London and the South East.