Symfony Development
Symfony is a set of reusable PHP components and a full-stack framework – less opinionated than Laravel, with flexibility that suits large codebases, long-lived projects, and organisations with strict architectural requirements. I work with Symfony when it's the right fit.
For most new builds I recommend Laravel – it's faster to ship with and scales well. I use Symfony when you already have a Symfony codebase, when your team has standardised on it, or when the problem benefits from Symfony's modularity. If you need a freelance PHP developer to maintain or extend a Symfony application, let's talk.
Working with Symfony
Symfony gives you a flexible, component-based foundation. That suits teams who want maximum control over architecture, long-lived applications, and enterprise PHP environments. I work with Symfony's HTTP kernel, routing, services, Doctrine ORM, and the broader ecosystem – including API Platform when you need API-first backends.
I'm based near Bath and Bristol, and I work with agencies and product teams across the UK on existing Symfony applications, integrations, and technical challenges.
Symfony or Laravel?
"Symfony vs Laravel" is one of the most common questions I get. My positioning: Laravel first for new work; Symfony when it's the right fit. That might mean an existing Symfony project, a client who's standardised on Symfony, or a problem that benefits from Symfony's modularity. I've written a practical comparison: Symfony vs Laravel: when to choose which.
Don't choose Symfony just because it seems "more enterprise" – Laravel scales to serious traffic and complexity too. Choose Symfony when you already have a Symfony codebase, need maximum flexibility, or are in an environment where Symfony is the standard. For most new greenfield work, I recommend Laravel.
Maintenance & Upgrades
Long-lived Symfony applications need maintenance: security updates, PHP and framework upgrades, and refactoring as requirements change. I help teams keep their Symfony apps secure, up to date, and maintainable. That includes planning upgrades (Symfony 5 to 6 to 7), deprecation fixes, and performance improvements.
If your Symfony project needs an extra pair of hands for maintenance, upgrades, or new features, I can help. I work with existing codebases and integrate with your team's process.
Enterprise PHP
Symfony is widely used in enterprise PHP: large codebases, strict architectural requirements, and teams that value flexibility over convention. I work with organisations on Symfony applications that need capacity, expertise, or technical guidance – including APIs, integrations, and backend services that sit alongside existing systems.
If you're looking for a freelance PHP developer for enterprise work – whether overflow capacity or a dedicated technical focus – get in touch.