Business Details
47 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architects in Bideford, Devon
Fearnley Lott Architects is a dynamic and visionary architecture practice dedicated to creating spaces that inspire, enrich, and transform lives. Established in 1979, we design with the end-user in mind, ensuring our projects meet both client requirements and local planning standards. Our multidisciplinary team brings decades of experience across residential, commercial, and sustainable design sectors. We prioritise innovation, technical excellence, and collaboration with clients and contractors to deliver high-quality architecture. Our work spans new builds, conversions, and developments, with a focus on bespoke design and detailing.We hold RIBA Chartered Practice status, reflecting our commitment to professional excellence. Sustainability is integral to our designs, with in-house expertise in energy assessments and future-ready building strategies. Our team includes specialists in architectural technology, conservation, and construction, ensuring comprehensive project delivery. Client testimonials highlight our ability to exceed expectations through creative problem-solving and meticulous attention to detail. We operate from purpose-built offices in Devon, fostering a supportive environment for staff development and innovation.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Design
Building Conversions
Sustainable Development
Energy Assessments
Planning Applications
Construction Management
Architectural Conservation
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- We have over 40 years of experience in residential and commercial architecture.
- Our RIBA Chartered Practice status guarantees professional excellence and accountability.
- We specialise in sustainable design with in-house energy assessment expertise.
- Our collaborative approach ensures projects align with client vision and local planning requirements.
- Award-winning multidisciplinary team with technical specialists across all RIBA stages.
Associations and certifications
- Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Chartered Practice
What people say
Quality and finish
Best team I've worked with
Innovative solutions
Meticulous attention to detail
Exceeded expectations
Services
Residential Architecture
We create bespoke residential spaces tailored to client lifestyles and site contexts. Our approach combines innovative design with practical functionality, ensuring compliance with planning regulations. Projects range from single-dwelling renovations to large-scale housing developments, all delivered with meticulous attention to detail and sustainability.
Commercial Design
Our commercial architecture services focus on creating efficient, inspiring workplaces and retail environments. We collaborate closely with clients to develop spaces that enhance productivity and brand identity. Expertise includes office fit-outs, industrial developments, and mixed-use schemes with integrated sustainability strategies.
Sustainable Development
We integrate environmental considerations into every project stage, from energy-efficient envelopes to renewable energy systems. Our in-house assessors provide SAP calculations and overheating analysis, ensuring compliance with future standards. This approach minimises ecological impact while maximising long-term cost savings for clients.
Planning Applications
We manage the entire planning process, from pre-application consultations to formal submissions. Our team prepares detailed design proposals and liaises with local authorities to secure approvals. This includes creating visualisations, coordinating specialist consultants, and addressing regulatory requirements for both residential and commercial projects.
Construction Management
We provide comprehensive construction phase services, including contract administration and contractor coordination. Our team ensures projects meet quality standards and remain within budget through regular site inspections and progress monitoring. This service covers all RIBA stages from technical design to final handover.
People
Rebecca J Fearnley
Partner
Qualified architect with first-class honours degree and postgraduate conservation diploma. Specialises in bespoke residential and commercial projects across all RIBA stages. Over 15 years of experience delivering high-quality designs that balance aesthetics with functionality.
David W Lott
Partner
Architect with 30+ years' experience in high-quality residential and waterfront developments. Recognised for intricate detailing expertise from woodworking background. Featured in Homes and Gardens Magazine for innovative design solutions that harmonise with challenging sites.
Alec Inniss
Associate Partner
Senior architectural technologist with 15 years' experience in technical design and construction phases. Holds BSc in Architectural Technology and Design. Praised by contractors for precise documentation that ensures smooth project execution across residential and commercial sectors.
Michael Hillis
Architectural Assistant
Specialises in high-quality planning drawings and visualisations. Supports projects from concept to construction phase with technical precision. Combines design passion with practical construction knowledge to deliver client-focused solutions across diverse project types.
Caitlin Knox
Architectural Assistant
Apprentice-trained technician with NVQ in Construction and Built Environment. Focuses on technical design development and energy assessments. Brings fresh perspective to projects while ensuring compliance with current building regulations and sustainability standards.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full architectural services including residential and commercial design, conversions, new builds, sustainability consulting, planning applications, and construction management across Devon and surrounding areas.
How do you approach the design process?
We follow the RIBA Plan of Work 2020, starting with client briefs and site analysis through to construction oversight. Our collaborative approach ensures client vision guides every design decision.
Are you experienced in sustainable design?
Yes, we integrate sustainability at every stage with in-house energy assessors, SAP calculations, and future-ready building strategies aligned with the 2025 Future Homes Standard.
How are your fees structured?
We offer tailored fee packages based on project scope and RIBA stages required. The initial consultation is free, with transparent pricing discussed before formal engagement.
Can you handle complex planning challenges?
Our team specialises in resolving complex planning issues, including listed buildings, conservation areas, and sites with environmental constraints, through innovative design solutions.
