Design that puts the animal first
Animal Welfare Design Solutions (AWS) is a specialist architecture practice for commercial and domestic animal shelters, veterinary hospitals, and sanctuaries. We combine specialist architectural expertise with hands-on animal welfare experience, a combination most general practices simply don't have.
Our Approach
Welfare-led design
Every space we design starts with the animal, not the building. Layouts are shaped around natural behaviour, reduced stress triggers, and species-specific needs.
Evidence-based layouts
We draw on research into sound, sightlines, scent, and spatial stress in captive and rescue animals to inform every decision, from kennel sightline, noise dampening materials, tailord Heating and cooling, so design choices are grounded in what actually reduces animal stress, not guesswork.
Staff workflow efficiency
A calmer animal starts with a calmer, more efficient workday. We design circulation routes, cleaning access, and feeding/exercise flows that cut wasted steps and reduce handling stress for both animals and the people caring for them.
Full Architectural Design — end-to-end design for new-build and renovation projects, from feasibility through to construction.
Services Available
Welfare & Operational Consulting — independent facility audits and practical retrofit advice for organisations upgrading existing buildings to meet current animal welfare regulations.
Master Planning — multi-year capital plans for larger sites, sequenced to match your fundraising and budget cycle
-
![CITB Site Safety Plus logo with purple circle and white text on a white background.]()
CITB Fire Safety In Buildings Certificate
-
![Black background with a white outline of a heart inside a wavy-edged circle or badge]()
Extensive Design Experience within Animal Welfare Sector
-
![Logo of the Association for Project Safety with red circle and white letters 'aps'.]()
Principal Designer CDM2015
APS accredited Principal designer
