Commercial Architecture Somerset | Rural Enterprise Centre

The Design

Working closely with the Royal Bath & West of England Society, O2i Design developed proposals that focused on functionality, flexibility and value. The existing offices were reorganised to provide conference facilities, meeting rooms, modern office accommodation and a commercial test kitchen within the original structure. Planning permission and Building Regulations approval were secured, allowing the project to move efficiently from design through to construction. Rather than replacing the building, the design demonstrated how careful refurbishment could deliver a modern working environment while making the most of the existing fabric.

The Outcome

The Rural Enterprise Centre opened in 2018 and continues to support businesses, researchers and organisations working across agriculture, food production and rural enterprise. Today, the building provides flexible accommodation for conferences, meetings, training and product development, helping the Royal Bath & West of England Society expand its year-round activities and strengthen its support for the rural economy. The project shows that successful commercial architecture is not always about creating something new. Sometimes the greatest value comes from adapting what already exists.

What We Learned

Every commercial project starts with different priorities. Sometimes the answer is a striking new building. Sometimes it is making better use of the buildings you already have. This project demonstrated that careful planning, practical design and a clear understanding of the client’s objectives can transform an ordinary building into an important business asset.

For more information about the Rural Enterprise Centre, please click here.