Business Details
18 Years
experience
Award-Winning Residential Architecture in Somerset
Established in 2008, R D Architects is a RIBA-certified architectural practice specialising in contemporary residential design. With over 28 years of combined experience, our team creates bespoke homes and renovations that harmonise with their surroundings while meeting clients' unique needs. We prioritise sustainable design principles and have a 100% planning success rate in challenging contexts including Conservation Areas and the Greenbelt. Our expertise spans new builds, extensions, and conversions of agricultural buildings, with particular proficiency in navigating permitted development rights.We maintain transparent communication throughout projects, offering services from initial consultation to contract administration. Our work has received national recognition including Grand Designs Best Contemporary House and The Daily Telegraph House of the Year awards. Based in the Chew Valley, we serve clients across the South West and beyond, combining technical excellence with a client-focused approach to deliver timeless, functional spaces.
Services
New Build Houses
Extensions
Conversions
Design
Build
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- 28 years combined experience in residential architecture
- 100% planning success rate in sensitive locations
- RIBA-certified sustainable design specialists
- Award-winning contemporary home designs
- Expert navigation of Greenbelt and AONB planning constraints
Associations and certifications
- RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects)
- Green Register
What people say
100% planning success rate
Award-winning contemporary designs
Expert navigation of constraints
Transparent communication
Timeless, functional spaces
Services
New Build Houses
We design contemporary bespoke homes that harmonise with their natural surroundings while meeting modern living requirements. Our fabric-first sustainable approach ensures energy-efficient buildings that stand the test of time. With a 100% planning success rate, we specialise in creating timeless family homes within sensitive landscapes.
Extensions
Our extension designs enhance property functionality while maintaining architectural integrity. We specialise in navigating Greenbelt and Conservation Area constraints using permitted development rights to deliver practical, aesthetically pleasing solutions that increase living space and property value.
Conversions
We transform agricultural buildings into modern living spaces while preserving their historic character. Our Class Q permitted development expertise ensures successful conversion of barns and outbuildings into homes, annexes and holiday lets within strict planning environments.
People
Rebecca Dyer
Founder & Architect
RIBA-registered architect with 16 years' experience in residential design. Former associate at Foster + Partners, winner of Grand Designs Best Contemporary House 2008. Specialises in sustainable design and planning strategy for complex sites.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in contemporary residential architecture including new builds, extensions, and conversions of agricultural buildings. Our expertise covers planning strategy, sustainable design, and project management from concept to completion.
Can you help with planning in sensitive areas?
Yes, we have a 100% planning success rate in challenging contexts including Conservation Areas, AONBs and the Greenbelt. We specialise in utilising permitted development rights for successful outcomes.
Do you work outside the South West?
While based in Somerset, we work on projects nationwide. Our experience extends from Devon to Suffolk, with successful remote collaboration on planning applications and design development.
What sustainability principles do you follow?
We adopt a fabric-first approach to sustainability, focusing on building orientation, insulation, and natural materials. Our designs maximise energy efficiency while maintaining architectural integrity and long-term durability.
How do you handle project timelines and budgets?
We provide transparent project timelines and cost management. Our technical expertise ensures realistic budgeting, with regular client updates to maintain control throughout the building process.
