News / construction
Family-owned construction firm marks milestone
A construction firm behind some distinct new builds and restorations has completed ten years of trading in Bristol.
Beard, which started its Bristol operations from a small office in Westbury-on-Trym, has delivered major projects that have helped shape the skyline of Bristol and the wider area.
Since opening its Bristol office in 2015, the team has grown from three people to more than 50, delivering design and build, new-build, restoration and refurbishment projects across sectors including heritage, education, healthcare, residential, sport and leisure.
Now based in Clifton, the office has played a key role in a number of landmark developments.
The state-of-the-art training facilities for Bristol Bears Rugby in Failand was also a major project delivered by Beard in the last ten years – photo: Milan Perera
Projects delivered by the firm include the refurbishment of the University of Bristol’s law school, the Being Brunel museum at SS Great Britain, state-of-the-art training facilities for Bristol Bears Rugby in Failand, the reconstruction of historic toll houses by Clifton Suspension Bridge and a major restoration of the Royal West of England Academy.
Another project the company profiled with great pride was an extension for John Wesley’s Chapel, the oldest Methodist Chapel in the world, commissioned by The Trustees of the New Room.
The firm joined forces with Bristol City Council and architectural firm BDP to deliver “gap houses” built on disused, council-owned garage sites, a scheme seen as part of a long-term strategy to address Bristol’s housing shortage. The project was even picked up by national newspapers for its innovation and rapid delivery.
“Gap Houses” converted under-used, council-owned garages into housing facilities – photo: Beard
Current schemes include new facilities for Bristol Zoological Society and the refurbishment and extension of One Friary Quay.
Led by the director Matt Cooper, the firm has experienced significant growth while maintaining a strong focus on innovation and community engagement.
Cooper said: “The work of our Bristol office demonstrates Beard’s wider commitment to quality, innovation, and community impact. We’re thrilled to celebrate this milestone with our team and partners, and we look forward to continuing to shape Bristol’s built environment for many more years to come.”
The family-owned firm which started its journey in Swindon boasts a legacy of over 130 years and is currently run by the fourth-generation of the family, Mark Beard.
1000 Aztec West is the result of a back-to-frame retrofit, which converted an 80s office building – photo: Beard
Alongside its construction work, the team has raised more than £18,000 for children’s bereavement charity Grief Encounter, underlining the firm’s commitment to supporting local communities.
Main image: Beard
Read next:
- Green light given for major build-to-rent scheme at historic sawmills
- Council-backed ‘gap house’ scheme reaches final stage
- Bristol construction firm behind Isambard-AI wins top regional award
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