Business Details
Your Trusted RIBA Chartered Architects in Ringwood
Williams Lester is a RIBA Chartered architectural practice based in Ringwood, Hampshire, with over three decades of experience delivering tailored design solutions. Our director-led approach combines creativity with technical expertise, utilising advanced 3D modelling and BIM software to transform ideas into functional, sustainable spaces. We specialise in residential, commercial, education, and heritage projects, prioritising clear communication and contextual sensitivity to meet each client's unique needs. Our collaborative ethos ensures quality from concept to completion, with directors overseeing every project to guarantee design excellence and practical execution. We integrate traditional techniques with modern technology, offering hand-drawn presentations for contextual projects and digital tools for contemporary designs.Our commitment to sustainability is rooted in a fabric-first approach, optimising natural resources to create energy-efficient buildings. We maintain long-standing relationships with consultants across planning, ecology, and engineering to enhance project outcomes. Our team's expertise in conservation includes working within historic settings and protected areas, supported by in-house Heritage Statements and external specialists. We pride ourselves on exceeding client expectations through innovative problem-solving and a deep understanding of site-specific challenges. With a focus on lasting value, our work has earned repeat business and strong industry recognition.
Services
Architectural Design
Conservation
BIM Modelling
Sustainable Design
Project Management
Highlights and features
- We offer over 35 years of experience in architectural design across residential, commercial, and heritage sectors
- Our director-led approach ensures hands-on expertise and consistent project oversight
- We utilise advanced BIM software for precise 3D modelling and collaborative design processes
- Our sustainability focus integrates passive design solutions and environmental best practices
- We maintain long-standing partnerships with specialist consultants in conservation and ecology
Associations and certifications
- RIBA Chartered Practice
What people say
Experienced, attentive and knowledgeable
Director led approach
High-quality design
Pragmatic and professional
Successful planning approval
Services
Architectural Design
We create bespoke architectural solutions tailored to each client's needs, combining creativity with technical precision. Our process begins with thorough site analysis and client consultation to develop designs that balance aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. Using advanced BIM technology, we deliver detailed 3D models that facilitate clear communication and informed decision-making throughout the project lifecycle.
Conservation
Our conservation expertise focuses on preserving historic buildings and sensitive environments. We specialise in working within Conservation Areas, near Listed Buildings, and in ecologically protected sites. Our approach combines in-depth heritage research with modern techniques to ensure interventions respect historical integrity while meeting contemporary requirements through collaborative stakeholder engagement.
BIM Modelling
We utilise Building Information Modelling (BIM) throughout all project stages to enhance collaboration and accuracy. Our BIM Level 2 compliant workflow improves design coordination, reduces construction errors, and enables real-time visualisation for clients. This technology supports better decision-making through detailed 3D models accessible via multiple devices during project reviews.
Sustainable Design
Our sustainability approach prioritises passive design strategies to optimise energy efficiency. We integrate environmental considerations from initial concept stages, focusing on orientation, natural resources, and material selection. We provide SAP assessments and collaborate with specialists on BREEAM certifications to deliver buildings that meet both client needs and environmental standards.
Project Management
We oversee projects from planning approval to construction completion, ensuring quality control and adherence to timelines. Our management approach combines technical expertise with regular client communication, coordinating multidisciplinary teams to deliver complex schemes within budget while maintaining design integrity and regulatory compliance.
People
Stephen Johnson
Director
Stephen Johnson leads architectural projects with over 25 years of experience in residential and commercial developments. He specialises in complex site analysis and client consultation, ensuring designs balance creativity with practical execution. His expertise in BIM technology enhances project coordination and delivery.
James Green
Director
James Green directs heritage and conservation projects, bringing extensive knowledge of listed buildings and protected environments. He has led award-winning restoration schemes, combining traditional techniques with modern sustainability requirements to preserve architectural history while meeting contemporary needs.
Lisa Summer
Director
Lisa Summer oversees sustainable design initiatives, focusing on energy-efficient buildings and environmental best practices. With expertise in SAP assessments and passive design strategies, she ensures projects meet regulatory standards while exceeding client expectations for eco-friendly architecture.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide comprehensive architectural services including design, planning, BIM modelling, conservation, and sustainable design across residential, commercial, and heritage sectors.
How long have you been in practice?
Our RIBA Chartered practice has over 35 years of combined experience delivering architectural projects across southern England.
What is your design approach?
We combine director-led expertise with BIM technology, focusing on contextual sensitivity, sustainability, and client collaboration from concept to completion.
Do you work on conservation projects?
Yes, we specialise in heritage architecture, including Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas, and protected ecological environments with specialist consultant partnerships.
