Business Details
14 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architects in Exeter
Barc Architects is an award-winning, RIBA Chartered architectural practice founded in 2012 in Exeter, Devon. Specialising in contemporary and sustainable design, we deliver bespoke residential and commercial projects across the South West and beyond. Our team prioritises innovation, energy efficiency, and client collaboration, ensuring every project harmonises with its environment. With expertise in new builds, conversions, extensions, and commercial developments, we integrate advanced technology like 3D modelling and VR walkthroughs.Recognised for our commitment to sustainability, we employ Passivhaus principles and low-carbon materials. Led by Director Caroline Shortt, our female-led team combines technical excellence with a personal approach, offering end-to-end support from concept to completion. Our accolades include LABC Building Excellence Awards, reflecting our dedication to quality and environmental responsibility.
Services
New Homes
Conversions
Extensions
Commercial Projects
Sustainable Architecture
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We are RIBA Chartered architects with a proven track record in sustainable design.
- Our team utilises advanced 3D modelling and VR technology for precise visualisation.
- We prioritise energy efficiency and low-carbon materials in every project.
- Our female-led practice offers a collaborative, client-centric approach.
- We provide end-to-end support from initial concept to project completion.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA Chartered
What people say
Excellent dialogue
Imaginative, thoughtful, creative
Perfect floor plan
Low energy needs
Calm, reassuring influence
Services
New Homes
We design energy-efficient, contemporary new homes tailored to client lifestyles. Utilising Passivhaus principles, our projects integrate renewable technologies and locally sourced materials. Each design balances aesthetics with functionality, ensuring spaces are both visually striking and environmentally responsible. Our process includes VR walkthroughs and 3D modelling for precise visualisation.
Conversions
Specialising in agricultural and industrial conversions, we preserve heritage while introducing modern comforts. Our approach incorporates EnerPHit standards for deep retrofits, enhancing insulation and ventilation. Projects include barn conversions and listed building restorations, blending traditional craftsmanship with sustainable upgrades like solar panels and heat pumps.
Extensions
We create seamless extensions that enhance spatial flow and natural light. Whether contemporary rear additions or period-sensitive alterations, our designs prioritise energy efficiency and material sustainability. Services include planning applications, structural coordination, and post-completion support to ensure lasting functionality.
Commercial Projects
Our commercial architecture spans offices, hospitality venues, and public spaces. We focus on productivity, customer experience, and sustainability, integrating features like natural ventilation and low-carbon materials. Projects are delivered with end-to-end oversight, from feasibility studies to technical design and construction management.
Sustainable Architecture
We embed sustainability into every project through fabric-first approaches and renewable technologies. Services include Passivhaus-certified builds, retrofitting for energy efficiency, and net-zero design strategies. Our expertise ensures reduced environmental impact while maintaining aesthetic appeal and long-term cost-effectiveness.
People
Caroline Shortt
Director
Fully qualified Chartered Architect and founder of Barc Architects, Caroline specialises in sustainable design and client collaboration. With over a decade of experience, she leads projects from concept to completion, ensuring innovative, tailored solutions.
Alex Morgan
Architect
Architect with expertise in residential and commercial projects, Alex combines technical precision with creative problem-solving. He focuses on integrating sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems into modern architectural designs.
Carl Wills
Senior Architectural Technician
Carl brings technical excellence to project execution, ensuring compliance with building regulations and planning requirements. His work supports complex residential and commercial developments across the South West.
Fay Arnot
Practice Manager
Fay oversees operational efficiency and client relations at Barc Architects. Her organisational skills ensure smooth project delivery and seamless communication between clients, designers, and contractors.
Joe Copp
Senior Architect
Joe specialises in heritage restorations and contemporary extensions, balancing historical integrity with modern functionality. His expertise includes navigating listed building consents and complex planning applications.
Questions
What architectural services does Barc Architects offer?
We specialise in new homes, conversions, extensions, commercial projects, and sustainable architecture. Our services include feasibility studies, planning applications, 3D modelling, and end-to-end project management.
Are Barc Architects RIBA Chartered?
Yes, we are a RIBA Chartered practice, ensuring adherence to the highest professional and technical standards in architectural design and sustainability.
Do you work outside Devon and the South West?
While based in Exeter, we undertake projects across the UK, Ireland, and beyond, delivering bespoke architectural solutions tailored to diverse locations and client needs.
How does Barc Architects incorporate sustainability?
We use Passivhaus principles, low-carbon materials, and renewable technologies like solar panels and heat pumps. Our designs prioritise energy efficiency, airtightness, and long-term environmental responsibility.
Can you assist with planning permission?
Yes, we manage planning applications, listed building consents, and building regulations approvals, leveraging our expertise to streamline the process for clients.
What technology do you use in your designs?
We employ 3D modelling, VR walkthroughs, and BIM to visualise projects, ensuring precise design refinement and client engagement before construction begins.
