Out of the Blue, the backstory
Roderick James is an architect working with his interior designer wife, Amanda Markham, designing and building small living spaces for rent.
Once Out of the Blue have been engaged as consultants, and concept designs have been developed, all detailed architectural work is now processed through Roderick James Architects LLP (www.roderickjamesarchitects.co.uk) for whom he now works as a consultant.
Roderick James was the First Director and Architect for the Centre for Alternative Technology at Machynlleth in Wales from 1974, a member of the Intermediate Technology Development Group, a trustee of the Society for Environmental Improvement Ltd (7 years), a member of the RNLI Boat Committee (10 years), Founding Chairman of Carpenter Oak and Woodland Co Ltd (1986) and Carpenter Oak Ltd (oak framers). Founding chairman of Adventure Capital Ltd (yacht restoration and charter. 2002). Founder of the SchoolHouse Project (video here) and Founding Chairman of R-Affordable Homes Ltd, a training project for ex-offenders (2016). Principal of Roderick James Architects 1973- 2002; Founding partner with Mike Hope of Roderick James Architects LLP 2002-2020.
Current: Founding Partner of Roderick James & Company with Amanda Markham (Design, construction and special projects, 1973-present); Founding chairman of Out of the Blue Ltd with Amanda Markham, 2014-present; Trustee of Jamie’s Farm 2010-present (www.jamiesfarm.org.uk;)
Out of the Blue Ltd also undertakes consultancy and concept design work for barges, houseboats and special projects.
Amanda Markham was a TV producer making commercials, an interior decorator and a member of ‘Last Word Lectures’ executive team hosting and meeting speakers from all over the world for eight years. She has been closely involved with Roderick in the design of Barge Maria (London), Barge Favorite (London), Tigh Darach (available on Airbnb: PA80 5XZ), Tigh na Mara, Druim na Cracaig and Eagle Rock (video here) (their own house), all on the Morvern Peninsular in Scotland.