Business Details
21 Years
experience
Award-Winning Chartered Architects in Dorset
Proctor Watts Cole Rutter is a long-established Chartered architects practice with over fifty years of experience operating across the South of England. Founded in Dorset and now with offices in South Devon, we specialise in creating imaginative designs for both private and commercial clients, ranging from small domestic extensions to large-scale mixed developments. Our team of RIBA Chartered Architects and Town Planners combines deep industry knowledge with a commitment to sustainable modern design, utilising cutting-edge technology to deliver buildings that are energy-efficient, durable, and adaptable. We hold Conservation accreditation and are members of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings and the Institute of Historic Building Conservation, reflecting our expertise in working with heritage structures.Our approach prioritises a personal service tailored to individual client needs, ensuring designs maximise site potential while using materials that age gracefully. With a proven track record in both historic preservation and innovative contemporary architecture, we provide comprehensive services from initial concept through to project completion, guided by principles of transparency, reliability, and technical excellence.
Services
Architecture
Planning Applications
Sustainable Design
Building Surveys
Listed Building Advice
Construction Management
3D Modelling
Feasibility Studies
CDM Compliance
Budget Cost Advice
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- Over 50 years of architectural expertise in Dorset and the Southwest
- RIBA Chartered and Conservation-accredited professionals
- Specialised in sustainable low-energy design and historic building restoration
- Personalised service tailored to individual client needs
- Proven track record in complex planning and building regulation approvals
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings
- Institute of Historic Building Conservation
What people say
Excellent job
Pleasure to work with
Collaborative process
Calm and reassuring
Highly recommend
Services
Architecture
Our architectural design service creates bespoke solutions tailored to client needs, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. We handle projects from concept to completion, including residential extensions, new builds, and commercial developments. Our team ensures compliance with planning regulations while maximising space efficiency and visual harmony with the surrounding environment.
Planning Applications
We manage the entire planning application process, preparing detailed drawings and documentation to meet local authority requirements. Our expertise in navigating complex regulations helps secure approvals efficiently, whether for listed buildings, conservation areas, or modern developments requiring special considerations.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design service focuses on energy-efficient buildings using low-impact materials and renewable technologies. We provide guidance on achieving environmental certifications, reducing carbon footprints, and creating adaptable spaces that meet future needs while maintaining aesthetic and functional excellence.
Listed Building Advice
Specialist advice for working with listed buildings and heritage sites, including conservation strategies and appropriate material selection. We ensure compliance with strict regulations while preserving historical integrity and enhancing usability through sensitive modern interventions.
Construction Management
Comprehensive construction management from tender selection to final account agreement. We administer building contracts, conduct site inspections, and coordinate with contractors to ensure quality control, budget adherence, and timely project delivery across residential and commercial developments.
People
Geoff Cole
Chartered Architect
With over 30 years' experience, Geoff Cole specialises in residential and conservation projects. He leads design teams and client relationships, combining technical expertise with creative problem-solving to deliver award-winning architectural solutions tailored to individual needs.
Simon Rutter
Town Planner
Simon Rutter brings extensive planning expertise, managing complex applications and development strategies. His focus on sustainable urban design ensures projects meet regulatory requirements while achieving commercial viability and environmental responsibility across the Southwest region.
Alex Spooner
Senior Architectural Technologist
Alex Spooner specialises in technical detailing and construction documentation. With 15 years' experience, he ensures design concepts translate into buildable solutions, maintaining quality standards and regulatory compliance throughout project execution phases.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full architectural design, planning applications, building regulations, conservation advice, sustainable design, 3D modelling, and construction management services.
Do you specialise in historic building projects?
Yes, we are Conservation-accredited and have extensive experience with listed buildings and heritage sites across Dorset and the Southwest.
How do you handle planning permission applications?
We guide clients through the entire process, preparing detailed submissions and liaising with local authorities to maximise approval chances.
Can you assist with sustainable building design?
Yes, we specialise in low-energy design solutions using sustainable materials and modern construction techniques to meet environmental goals.
What areas do you serve?
Primarily Dorset and South Devon, with projects across the Southwest region and beyond for specialist commissions.
