Dorset-based RIBA-chartered architectural practice Western Design Architects (WDA) is celebrating its 40th anniversary, having built a portfolio of more than 2,000 completed projects spanning private residential, public, educational, healthcare, agricultural, and heritage work across Dorset and the wider UK.

The Daily Echo reported that the practice, based in Tarrant Hinton near Blandford, was founded in 1986 by Phil Selby following five years working on building sites, and currently employs more than 18 professionals.

WDA offers a full suite of RIBA architectural services from initial concept through to on-site completion, with the team combining expertise in historic architecture with practical knowledge across diverse construction methods, materials, and project types.

The practice holds RIBA Conservation Architect accreditation and its work spans both contemporary and traditional design styles, with particular strength in heritage conservation, barn conversions, rural residential development, and works within Architectural Conservation Areas.

Selby, who has more than 50 years of experience in the profession, is an RIBA-accredited Conservation Architect and a member of the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB). He specialises in historic buildings and Conservation Areas, and mentors aspiring Conservation Architects and students at the Arts University Bournemouth.

Director Matthew joined the practice in 1999 and became a director in 2004, while director Jonathan serves on the Bournemouth Borough Council Design Review Panel, reflecting the practice's ongoing engagement with the region's built environment planning and design governance.

WDA operates from a converted barn in rural Dorset, within reach of Bournemouth, Poole, Salisbury, and surrounding counties including Hampshire, Wiltshire, Devon, and Somerset, and regularly delivers projects further afield, including London, which is accessible within 90 minutes.

Read the full story on Western Design Architects' 40th anniversary milestone.