RIBA Architects Near You
Our team of friendly architects have considerable experience working across the South Coast including Dorset, Hampshire, The New Forest, Wiltshire and beyond.
We have successfully helped our clients gain planning permission on listed buildings, Passive House and new build homes.
Trusted Local Architects
Footprint Architects are dedicated to designing inspiring spaces, towards a more sustainable future for people, communities and the environment across Dorset, The New Forest, Poole, Wiltshire, and Bournemouth.
Whether you’re or seeking sustainable design solutions, low-energy retrofit or modern home plans we have the expertise to guide your project to success.
Trusted Local Architects
What We Do
We work across a range of sectors. Specialising in Sustainable Homes, Passivhaus and EnerPHit, Community and Leisure, Schools and Colleges, SEN, Heritage and Conservation and Workplaces. We are committed to creating innovative, site sensitive and environmentally sound architecture.
Award-Winning Architectural Services
Footprint Architects are an award-winning, RIBA Chartered architectural practice based in Bournemouth. We design healthy, people centred, buildings and spaces across Dorset, The New Forest, Poole, Hampshire, Wiltshire and The South.
Our approach makes sustainable design effortless
From reinventing the high street to low carbon, passivhaus buildings in the heart of our community, we are committed to taking action on the most pressing social environmental issues.
Environment & Climate
Footprint Architects are committed to developing buildings that are environmentally sensitive. We design healthy buildings, using natural, low carbon materials to achieve the highest levels of sustainability and comfort.
People & Communities
We create spaces to learn, live, work and to be together that sit in the heart of local communities. From boosting wellbeing to attracting customers, we always think about how the space will be used in the present and made fit for the future.
Context & Place
We can turn even the most challenging sites into amazing opportunities. By carefully analysing the site and understanding the local context, we create buildings that make the most of their location, while respecting and celebrating their surroundings.
Get Your Project Off The Ground
Get in touch today to kick-start your project. Let us know a few details and we’ll be in touch to discuss bringing your vision to life. Or call us on 01202 818 966
Durley Chine Environmental Hub
A Passivhaus certified model for low-energy, reclaimed architecture. Durley Chine Innovation Hub is designed to be recycled after its life span.
Our low carbon concrete uses 80% less cement
Tonnes of hardwood we’re re-used for cladding and structures
sqm of PV panels
Our Latest Projects
Edwardian Home Renovation & Extension
A Modern Regeneration of a Classic Home in Richmond, London
Edwardian Home Renovation & Extension
A Modern Regeneration of a Classic Home in Richmond, London
Salisbury Passive House
An Award Winning Affordable Self-Build, Eco-Friendly Home focusing on Passive House Design Principles
Salisbury Passive House
An Award Winning Affordable Self-Build, Eco-Friendly Home focusing on Passive House Design Principles
New Forest Farmhouse Refurbishment
An Award-Winning Modern Farmhouse Refurbishment, Barn Conversion and Extension to a Grade II Listed Home
New Forest Farmhouse Refurbishment
An Award-Winning Modern Farmhouse Refurbishment, Barn Conversion and Extension to a Grade II Listed Home
Sandbanks Road Coastal Home
A New-Build Coastal Home in Poole
Sandbanks Road Coastal Home
A New-Build Coastal Home in Poole
Compton Way Residential Extension
A Contemporary Residential Extension and Refurbishment
Compton Way Residential Extension
A Contemporary Residential Extension and Refurbishment
Bobby’s Bournemouth Refurbishment & Retrofit
Refurbishment and Retrofit of Former Debenhams Building into a Thriving Mixed-used Development
Bobby’s Bournemouth Refurbishment & Retrofit
Refurbishment and Retrofit of Former Debenhams Building into a Thriving Mixed-used Development
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a sustainable architect do?
Footprint Architects are committed to designing buildings that are environmentally sensitive. At each stage of your project we will work with you to provide innovative sustainable solutions that work for you, your budget and our planet. We believe all new projects should be low energy, net zero carbon in use, and built using local sustainable materials.
From using reclaimed materials, recycled newspaper insulation, repurposing existing structures, or designing to Passivhaus standards our team have specialist knowledge in sustainable design.
Why use an architecture firm in Dorset?
Our coastal positioning in the centre of Bournemouth has allowed us to work on a range of projects embedded in the local history and natural surroundings. To gain an in-depth understanding of contextual positioning, Footprint take great care in carrying out location analyses, as well as helping make sure construction projects follow legal rules. Ensuring adherence to stringent building regulations.
By using sustainable architecture practices Bournemouth has benefited from designs that are functional and appealing for both commercial and domestic use.
I’m looking for architects near me, can Footprint help?
We are a team committed to creating innovative, site sensitive and environmentally sound architecture. Our projects include improving wellbeing in schools through educational architecture, committing to sustainability goals and reducing carbon footprint through eco-friendly design, and extend to barn conversions, listed building renovation and conservation, leisure centres and beyond.
We believe in creating extraordinary spaces that foster positive experiences and improve mental wellbeing, and support communities in meeting their social needs.
When should I hire an architect in Bournemouth?
House and building design and planning is our forte. We recommend hiring a RIBA-Chartered architect at the start of your construction project for the best results. As soon as you’re ready to start the design process, we’re here to assist.
Initial cost estimates and preliminary designs can be provided from the start. To promote a progressive beginning to your project.
Can Footprint Architects design sustainable homes in historic settings?
At our Bournemouth-based architecture firm, we design sustainable modern homes that reflect each site’s unique characteristics and carefully pay homage to their historic locations.
Our award-winning Passivehaus in Salisbury is a historic setting with many links to unique natural environments. The project’s concept took inspiration from the river tributaries of the Salisbury Avon. The River Nadder is a chalk stream which is one of only 200 in the world and located in the garden of the property.
Can I redesign my home on a budget?
Wondering what the cost is to hire an architect?
The cost of architectural work depends on many factors. Having a defined budget allows our design team to understand the project’s potential. After a consultation to discuss your design ideas through a consultation with our architects, a pricing structure will be clearly communicated before further work continues.
By providing this information in the early stages of design consultation, Passivhaus projects ensure long-term affordability, offering eco-friendly home focusing on energy-efficient design principles.
What happens in an architectural consultation?
The first step for architecture firms in Bournemouth is a consultation to discuss your design aspirations. This ensures that the architect’s expertise aligns with your project.
During this meeting, Footprint Architects will explore your ideas and concepts, creating a bespoke architectural solution in line with your vision. We will also assess the architectural services specific to the building’s context and place, as well as site information required from a legal standpoint.
Click here to schedule a consultation with our specialist designers.
What is the best time to get architectural plans?
Our sustainable design approach begins with comprehensive site and location analyses, as well as a thorough feasibility study, assessing the design potential. Our architects will then provide comprehensive, well-considered designs, communicating the vision to others involved in the construction process.
We recommend organising a consultation at the earliest possible opportunity, to ensure optimal operation throughout the design process.
What is Passivhaus?
Passivhaus (or Passive House) is a highly effective energy and comfort standard for new buildings. Passive house buildings use high levels of insulation, fresh air, natural daylight and the sun to create high performing buildings that support wellbeing, all year round. Our team of sustainable architects have designed a range of Passivhaus certified and low-embodied energy homes.
Learn more about Footprint Architects’ work with Passivhaus Standards
Why Retrofit an existing building?
The embodied carbon associated with a new build can be as much as twice of that of retrofitting an existing building. The structure of a building typically accounts for a significant portion of its embodied carbon. Often ranging from 50% to 70%. Production of new concrete and steel typically has some of the highest levels of embodied carbon.
So why replace a building’s structure if you don’t need to?
A good retrofit and renovation can prevent health risks from damp or mouldy environments, reduce fuel poverty and can make our existing buildings sustainable for the future.
How do I get planning permission?
We pride ourselves on our planning success rate and have built a great relationship with the planning offices in Dorset and Hampshire. Our record of successful applications means we understand how to approach the process, but as with every project, the process differs from scheme to scheme. If you would like to know more about the planning process, we have put together a brief guide for you. You can download this above, or follow the link below.
Do you work with listed buildings and projects in conservation areas and national parks?
Yes! We have a very successful planning approval rate, including success in the green belt and the New Forest National Park. We were also awarded the Winner of the New Forest National Park Building Design Awards 2019 for Best Conservation to a listed farm house.
How much will my project cost?
This is dependent on many varying factors, including whether you are extending, renovating, converting or building a new home. There are also a number of different elements that will effect the outcome of cost, including varying site conditions, the age and existing condition of your property, history of the site, and more.
It is common to quote square metre rates and whilst this is a good starting point, the overall project spend has to consider:
- the specification of interior finishes and fixtures, which could double the cost of your project from a house of standard specification
- abnormal site conditions – ground conditions, site access, drainage, tree roots etc.
- legal and professional fees (including the cost of borrowing) and surveys
- renewable energy investment
We have a wealth of experience from our varied projects completed over the last 10 years, so please feel free to contact us and we will be able to help you build a picture of the likely cost for your project. There are also some great online resources and we’d recommend visiting the Home Building and Renovating website, which is a great place to start.
https://www.homebuilding.co.uk/the-ultimate-build-cost-guide/