Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Award-Winning Chartered Architects in Dorset & Devon
Proctor Watts Cole Rutter is an award-winning RIBA chartered and Conservation accredited architectural and town planning practice with over 50 years of experience serving clients across the Southwest of England and beyond. Established in 1970, our practice combines deep industry expertise with a commitment to sustainable modern design utilising cutting-edge technology. Our team of chartered architects, town planners, and architectural technologists specialises in creating imaginative designs for traditional and modern construction projects ranging from private residences and extensions to large-scale commercial developments.We prioritise a personal service tailored to individual client needs, ensuring designs maximise site potential while using materials that age gracefully. Our extensive experience working with listed buildings, conservation areas, and historic structures is complemented by our ability to deliver low-energy, sustainable solutions. As members of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings and the Institute of Historic Building Conservation, we maintain the highest standards of professional excellence while offering transparent communication and fixed-fee initial consultations to build lasting client relationships.
Services
Architecture & Design
Planning Applications
Sustainable Design
Building Surveys
Conservation Advice
Details
- Year established: 1970
Highlights and features
- Over 50 years of architectural expertise in Southwest England
- Tailored services for residential, commercial, and conservation projects
- Specialists in sustainable low-energy building solutions
- Experienced in navigating complex planning regulations
- Personal service with fixed-fee initial consultation
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- Institute of Historic Building Conservation
What people say
Excellent job
Pleasure to work with
Imaginative design
Professional service
Met expectations
Services
Architectural Design
Our architectural design service creates bespoke solutions that balance aesthetic appeal with functional requirements. We specialise in transforming client visions into practical plans for new constructions, extensions, and renovations. The team utilises advanced BIM technology alongside traditional drawing techniques to produce detailed plans that maximise space efficiency while maintaining structural integrity. Each project benefits from our extensive experience in both modern and heritage design contexts.
Planning Applications
Navigating the planning process becomes straightforward with our expert guidance. We prepare comprehensive applications incorporating feasibility studies, 3D visualisations, and technical specifications to meet local authority requirements. Our established relationships with planning departments and proven track record in securing approvals for complex projects ensure smooth submissions. We handle all communications and revisions required to obtain planning permission for residential and commercial developments.
Conservation Architecture
Specialising in historic buildings, our conservation architecture service preserves architectural heritage while implementing modern functionality. We advise on appropriate materials and techniques for listed buildings and conservation areas, ensuring compliance with strict regulations. Our team's membership in specialist organisations like the Institute of Historic Building Conservation guarantees expert handling of sensitive restoration projects while maintaining structural integrity and historical authenticity.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design approach integrates energy-efficient solutions and eco-friendly materials throughout the building process. We provide expert advice on achieving low-energy performance standards while maintaining aesthetic quality. From initial concept to final construction, we incorporate passive design principles, renewable energy systems, and sustainable material selections to create environmentally responsible buildings that reduce long-term operational costs without compromising on design excellence.
Project Management
We offer comprehensive project management services covering all construction phases from tendering to completion. Our team administers building contracts, conducts site inspections, and ensures compliance with technical specifications. We coordinate with contractors to maintain quality standards, manage budgets, and resolve on-site challenges. This service includes regular progress reporting and final account certification to guarantee projects meet design intentions and regulatory requirements within agreed timelines.
People
Brian Watts
Director - Chartered Architect
With over 30 years' experience, Brian Watts leads architectural projects specialising in heritage conservation. His expertise in listed buildings and traditional construction methods ensures historically sensitive yet functional designs that meet modern requirements while maintaining architectural integrity.
Geoff Cole
Director - Chartered Architect
Geoff Cole directs residential and commercial projects with emphasis on sustainable modern design. His collaborative approach combines client vision with technical expertise, delivering energy-efficient solutions that maximise natural light and spatial efficiency across diverse architectural styles.
Simon Rutter
Director - Town Planner
As lead town planner, Simon Rutter specialises in complex planning applications. His strategic approach secures permissions for challenging sites through comprehensive feasibility studies and persuasive documentation that addresses local authority requirements while advancing client objectives.
Alex Spooner
Senior Architectural Technologist
Alex Spooner manages technical aspects of architectural projects, ensuring compliance with building regulations. His expertise in construction detailing and specification writing guarantees accurate translation of design concepts into buildable solutions that meet both aesthetic and performance standards.
Shaun Furmage
Senior Architectural Technician
Shaun Furmage provides technical support across projects, producing detailed drawings and construction documents. His attention to detail ensures accurate implementation of design intent through precise technical documentation that guides builders throughout the construction process.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer in Dorset?
We provide full architectural services including design, planning applications, building regulations, conservation work, and project management for residential and commercial developments across Dorset and Southwest England.
Do you specialise in historic building conservation?
Yes, as RIBA chartered architects with Institute of Historic Building Conservation accreditation, we specialise in listed buildings, conservation areas, and heritage projects while maintaining modern functionality.
Can you help with sustainable building design?
Our practice leads in sustainable low-energy design, offering expert advice on eco-friendly materials, energy efficiency, and environmentally responsible construction methods for new builds and renovations.
What areas do you cover from your Shaftesbury office?
While based in Shaftesbury, Dorset, we operate throughout Southwest England including Devon, Somerset, Wiltshire, and Gloucestershire for both residential and commercial architectural projects.
How are your architectural fees structured?
Fees are tailored to project complexity - either time-based or percentage of construction costs. We provide transparent fixed-fee initial consultations and detailed cost proposals before commencing work.
