Business Details
39 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design in Bristol
Alec French Architects is a well-established, award-winning architectural practice based in Bristol. With a focus on creative and sustainable design, we collaborate closely with clients to develop tailored solutions that exceed expectations. Our team brings extensive local knowledge and expertise to projects of varying scales, from residential and heritage buildings to commercial and cultural spaces. We prioritise a collaborative culture, integrating seamlessly with client teams to deliver high-quality outcomes. With a portfolio featuring high-profile projects like Bristol Beacon and Wapping Wharf, we are committed to innovative design that addresses climate change and technological advancements.Our services include masterplanning, feasibility studies, and technical advisory roles, ensuring projects meet regulatory standards. Recognised for excellence through awards such as Residential Project of the Year, we maintain a reputation as a trusted partner in the architectural field. Our ISO 14001 certification underscores our commitment to environmental responsibility. Clients consistently praise our professionalism, transparency, and ability to deliver complex projects successfully.
Services
Architectural Design
Masterplanning
Feasibility Studies
Sustainable Design
Technical Advisory
Contract Administration
Principal Designer Services
Design Development
Heritage Conservation
Urban Regeneration
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of architectural expertise in Bristol and the South West.
- Our team holds ISO 14001 certification for environmental management.
- We specialise in transforming complex feasibility studies into buildable designs.
- Our collaborative approach integrates seamlessly with client teams for optimal results.
- Award-winning portfolio includes high-profile projects like Bristol Beacon and Wapping Wharf.
Associations and certifications
- ISO 14001
- Royal Institute of British Architects
What people say
Professional team
Transparent communication
Award-winning designs
Successful project delivery
Local expertise
Services
Architectural Design
We create tailored architectural solutions combining creativity with technical precision. Our approach prioritises client needs while addressing sustainability and regulatory requirements. From concept to completion, we deliver designs that enhance functionality and aesthetic value across residential, commercial, and cultural sectors.
Masterplanning
Our masterplanning services focus on creating cohesive, sustainable urban environments. We specialise in transforming underutilised areas through strategic layouts that balance development with heritage preservation, as demonstrated in Bristol Harbourside and Wapping Wharf projects.
Feasibility Studies
We conduct detailed feasibility studies to assess project potential, including site analysis, space planning, and regulatory compliance. These studies form the foundation for successful planning applications and cost-effective development strategies.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainable design approach integrates energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. Using ISO 14001 standards and Passivhaus principles, we create buildings that minimise carbon footprints while maintaining comfort and functionality across new builds and renovations.
Principal Designer Services
We manage health and safety compliance under CDM regulations, identifying and mitigating risks through design. Our services ensure safe construction processes and compliance with the Building Safety Act 2023 for both low- and high-risk buildings.
People
Carly Pearce
Senior Architect
Specialising in residential projects, Carly leads teams in delivering affordable housing solutions. She integrates sustainable practices while maintaining strong client relationships, as demonstrated in the Capel Road development.
Chris Townsend
Senior Design Manager
With extensive experience in complex projects, Chris has led technical teams on major developments like Bristol Beacon. He ensures seamless collaboration between contractors and design teams to meet challenging project requirements.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in architectural design, masterplanning, feasibility studies, sustainable design, and technical advisory services for residential, commercial, and heritage projects.
Are you experienced in sustainable building design?
Yes, we hold ISO 14001 certification and integrate sustainable practices across all projects, focusing on net-zero carbon and energy-efficient solutions.
Can you handle complex regeneration projects?
Our portfolio includes urban regeneration projects like Wapping Wharf and Bristol Harbourside, demonstrating expertise in transforming complex sites.
Do you work outside Bristol?
While Bristol-based, we work across the South West and UK, with projects from Bath to Swindon and Cardiff.
How do you ensure project compliance?
We provide Principal Designer services under CDM regulations and contract administration to ensure regulatory compliance throughout the project lifecycle.
What awards have you won?
We've won multiple awards, including RIBA South West's Residential Project of the Year for Wapping Wharf Phase 2.
