About Optic-Glide
Building quality homes across the United Kingdom with dedication, expertise, and an unwavering commitment to our craft.
Our Story
Founded in 2003 by Richard Thomson, a structural engineer with a vision for better home construction, our company began with a single project: a modest family home in Surrey. Richard was frustrated by the shortcuts he had witnessed during his career and decided to prove that quality and profitability were not mutually exclusive.
That first project attracted attention from neighbours who wanted similar care applied to their own building plans. Word spread, and within three years, we had grown from a one-man operation to a team of twelve skilled professionals.
Today, we employ over forty people and have completed more than 340 homes across the South East. Our growth has been deliberate rather than aggressive, ensuring we maintain the standards that defined us from the start.
Why We Do What We Do
Homes are where life happens. Children take their first steps, families gather for celebrations, and couples grow old together within the walls we build. This context gives our work meaning beyond the physical structures themselves.
Every decision we make—from supplier selection to site practices—reflects an understanding that we are creating spaces where people will live their lives. This responsibility shapes our approach and motivates our team to deliver their best work consistently.
Company Milestones
Key moments in our development as a construction company.
Company Founded
Richard Thomson establishes the company with a focus on residential construction in Surrey.
First Major Project
Completed our first development of five homes, establishing our reputation for quality craftsmanship.
Regional Expansion
Extended operations to cover Kent, Essex, and Hampshire, doubling our team size.
NHBC Recognition
Received NHBC Pride in the Job award for outstanding site management and construction quality.
Sustainability Initiative
Launched our green building programme, focusing on energy-efficient construction methods.
300th Home Completed
Reached a significant milestone with over 300 homes delivered to satisfied clients.
Continuing Growth
Expanded our team to 42 professionals while maintaining our commitment to personalised service.
Leadership Team
The experienced professionals guiding our company forward.
Richard Thomson
Founder & Managing Director
A chartered structural engineer with over 30 years in construction. Richard oversees all major projects and maintains direct involvement with key clients.
Emma Richardson
Operations Director
Emma coordinates our project teams, manages supplier relationships, and ensures our processes deliver consistent results across all sites.
Michael Fraser
Technical Director
With expertise in building regulations and modern construction methods, Michael ensures our work meets the highest technical standards.
Sarah Pemberton
Client Relations Manager
Sarah ensures every client receives attentive communication and support throughout their project journey.
Our Values
Integrity
We do what we say and say what we do. Honest communication and transparent practices define how we operate.
Craftsmanship
Pride in workmanship drives our teams. We take time to get things right and maintain high standards throughout.
Reliability
Meeting deadlines and budget commitments matters. Clients can depend on us to deliver as promised.
Client Focus
Every project is unique because every client is unique. We listen, adapt, and deliver homes that match individual needs.
Our Approach to Building
Construction is a collaborative process. We work alongside clients, architects, and specialists to create homes that meet practical needs while reflecting personal tastes. This collaboration extends to our supply chain, where long-standing relationships with trusted suppliers ensure consistent material quality.
Building well is not simply about following standards—it is about exceeding them where it matters most.
Our site teams take ownership of their work. They understand that their names are attached to every structure they build, and this accountability drives performance. Regular training ensures our methods stay current with evolving best practices and regulatory requirements.
We also recognise that construction affects communities. Minimising disruption for neighbours, maintaining clean sites, and communicating proactively with local residents are standard practices for all our projects.
Sustainability Commitment
Building responsibly for future generations.
Energy Efficiency
All our new builds exceed current building regulations for thermal performance, reducing heating costs and carbon footprints.
Responsible Sourcing
We prioritise UK suppliers and FSC-certified timber, supporting local businesses while minimising transport emissions.
Waste Reduction
Our sites implement comprehensive recycling programmes. Over 90% of construction waste is diverted from landfill.
Water Management
Rainwater harvesting and efficient fixtures are standard features, helping homeowners reduce water consumption.
Future-Ready Design
Infrastructure for electric vehicle charging and solar panels is included in new builds, even when not immediately installed.
Biodiversity
Where possible, we incorporate wildlife-friendly features such as bat boxes and pollinator-friendly planting into landscaping.
Industry Accreditations
Our credentials reflect commitment to professional standards.
Work With Us
Whether you are planning a new build, considering an extension, or exploring renovation options, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss your project.
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