Construction & architect website design UK
A complete guide to creating an effective website for your construction company, architectural practice, or building contractor. Learn essential features, portfolio best practices, accreditation display, lead generation strategies, and what to budget for a construction website in the UK.
Your website is your most important business development tool
In the construction and architectural industries, your website serves a fundamentally different purpose than in most other sectors. It is not simply a digital brochure - it is your portfolio, your credentials display case, and often the deciding factor in whether a potential client picks up the phone.
Whether you are a small building contractor seeking residential work, an architectural practice pursuing commercial projects, or a larger construction firm tendering for public sector contracts, your website needs to demonstrate capability, credibility, and professionalism at first glance.
The construction industry has been slower than many to embrace digital marketing, which creates an opportunity. A well-designed website that properly showcases your work, displays your accreditations, and makes it easy for potential clients to request quotes will set you apart from competitors still relying on word-of-mouth alone.
What makes an effective construction website?
An effective construction or architect website does three things exceptionally well: it showcases your best work with professional imagery, it demonstrates your credentials and trustworthiness through accreditations and testimonials, and it makes the enquiry process straightforward and professional. Every other feature should support these core objectives.
Essential features for construction websites
These are the features your construction or architect website needs, ordered by importance. Start with the critical items and add more as your budget allows.
Project portfolio
CriticalHigh-quality photography of completed projects organised by sector and type. Your portfolio is your primary sales tool.
Accreditation badges
CriticalDisplay RIBA, CIOB, FMB, NHBC, Constructionline, and other professional memberships prominently.
Service area coverage
CriticalClear indication of where you work. Essential for local SEO and qualifying enquiries.
Mobile responsiveness
CriticalMany site visitors are on-site workers or clients viewing on mobile. Perfect display on all devices is essential.
Quote request form
CriticalStructured form capturing project type, location, budget range, and timeline. Enable file uploads for plans.
Case studies
HighDetailed project stories with before/after images, challenges overcome, and client testimonials.
Sector specialisation
HighClear pages for each sector: residential, commercial, industrial, heritage, sustainable building.
Health & safety page
HighDisplay SSIP accreditations, safety policies, and CDM compliance. Essential for commercial work.
Team profiles
MediumShow your architects, project managers, and key personnel. Builds trust and personal connection.
3D renders gallery
MediumShowcase architectural visualisations, CGI renders, and concept designs. Demonstrates design capability.
Video content
MediumProject walkthroughs, drone footage, time-lapses. Highly engaging and builds confidence.
Client portal
OptionalSecure area for clients to track project progress, view documents, and communicate with your team.
Quality Over Quantity
For construction websites, the quality of your portfolio imagery matters more than the number of features on your site. Invest in professional photography before adding advanced functionality. A simple, well-designed site with stunning project photos will outperform a feature-rich site with poor imagery every time.
Portfolio best practices for construction websites
Your portfolio is your primary sales tool. Here is how to present your projects in a way that wins new clients.
Professional photography
Invest in professional architectural photography. A good photographer understands lighting, angles, and how to capture the scale and quality of your work. Budget £300-800 per project for photography.
Organise by sector
Group projects by type: residential new builds, commercial offices, industrial facilities, heritage restoration, sustainable/eco builds. Helps visitors find relevant examples quickly.
Before and after
For renovations and extensions, before/after imagery is incredibly powerful. Use consistent angles and lighting to create compelling transformations that clients can relate to.
Project details
Include key information: project scope, approximate value, build duration, specific challenges overcome, and materials used. Helps qualify enquiries and demonstrates expertise.
Mobile optimisation
Ensure your gallery loads quickly and displays perfectly on mobile. Many potential clients browse from site or during meetings. Compress images while maintaining quality.
Regular updates
Add new projects within 4-6 weeks of completion. An outdated portfolio suggests an inactive business. Archive old projects rather than deleting them entirely.
Drone footage
Aerial photography and video adds impressive perspective to large projects. Particularly effective for developments, extensions, and landscaping. Consider hiring a licensed drone operator.
Client testimonials
Include testimonials with each project where possible. A quote from the client about working with you is more persuasive than any marketing copy you could write.
The Photography Investment
Professional architectural photography typically costs £300-800 per project but provides years of marketing value. A single stunning image can appear on your website, social media, tender submissions, and marketing materials. Consider it an investment in your business rather than an expense, and budget for photography as part of every significant project.
Accreditations and professional memberships
Displaying the right accreditations builds instant credibility. Here are the key bodies for the construction and architecture sectors.
Architects
Royal Institute of British Architects
The gold standard for UK architects. Demonstrates commitment to quality, ethics, and professional standards.
Architects Registration Board
Legal requirement to use the title 'architect' in the UK. All architects must be ARB registered.
Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland
The professional body for architects in Scotland, equivalent to RIBA.
Builders & Contractors
Federation of Master Builders
Largest trade association for builders. Members are vetted and inspected, with customer protection scheme.
Chartered Institute of Building
Professional body for construction management. MCIOB or FCIOB demonstrates senior expertise.
National House Building Council
Provides 10-year warranties for new homes. NHBC registration is essential for residential developers.
Constructionline Certification
UK government-backed certification scheme. Gold level demonstrates excellent H&S and financial standing.
Safety & Quality
Contractors Health and Safety Assessment Scheme
Widely recognised health and safety certification. Often required for commercial contracts.
SafeContractor Accreditation
Health and safety accreditation scheme accepted across multiple industries.
TrustMark Government Endorsed
Government-endorsed quality scheme for tradespeople. Provides consumer protection.
ISO 9001 Quality Management
International standard for quality management systems. Demonstrates systematic approach to quality.
Display Accreditations Prominently
Your accreditation badges should be visible on your homepage, typically in the footer or a dedicated trust bar. Create a dedicated accreditations page with full details of each membership, what it means, and when it was awarded. For commercial work, clients often need to verify these credentials before shortlisting contractors.
Lead generation strategies for construction
How to convert website visitors into enquiries and project opportunities. These methods work for both residential and commercial construction.
Structured quote forms
EssentialCapture project type, location, timeline, budget range, and allow plan uploads. Pre-qualify leads and gather information needed for accurate estimates.
Service area pages
EssentialCreate location-specific landing pages for each area you serve. Target local searches like 'builders in Cardiff' or 'architect Newport'.
Case study downloads
HighOffer detailed PDF case studies in exchange for email addresses. Builds your mailing list with genuinely interested prospects.
Free consultation offer
HighOffer a free initial consultation or site visit. Lowers the barrier for first contact and gets you in front of potential clients.
Design guide downloads
MediumCreate valuable content like 'Extension Planning Guide' or 'Commercial Fit-Out Checklist'. Captures leads earlier in their journey.
Live chat
MediumAllow visitors to ask quick questions without committing to a call. Works well for qualifying enquiries and capturing contact details.
Project cost calculator
MediumInteractive tool giving rough estimates for common project types. Engages visitors and captures contact information for follow-up.
Tender portal
OptionalFor commercial work, a professional tender submission portal demonstrates capability to handle larger contracts.
Key insight: The construction sales cycle is long. Someone researching today may not be ready to commit for months. Capture contact information early and nurture relationships through regular updates, newsletters, and case study emails.
Video content for construction websites
Video brings your projects to life in ways photography cannot. Here are the most effective types of video content for construction and architect websites.
Project walkthroughs
Typical duration: 60-120 seconds
Professional video tours of completed projects. Show scale, quality, and attention to detail that photos cannot capture.
Drone footage
Typical duration: 30-60 seconds
Aerial views of developments, large extensions, and site progress. Particularly impressive for commercial projects.
Time-lapse
Typical duration: 30-90 seconds
Condensed build progress from foundation to completion. Compelling content that shows your full process.
Client testimonials
Typical duration: 60-90 seconds
Happy clients discussing their experience working with you. More persuasive than written testimonials.
Team introduction
Typical duration: 60-120 seconds
Meet the team behind the business. Humanises your company and builds trust before first contact.
Virtual tours
Typical duration: Self-paced
360-degree or Matterport scans allowing virtual property exploration. Excellent for completed developments.
Video Hosting Tips
Host videos on YouTube or Vimeo and embed them on your website rather than uploading directly. This improves loading speed, provides a backup location, and gives you access to video analytics. For YouTube, create a branded channel that complements your website. Ensure all videos are properly captioned for accessibility.
SEO for construction company websites
How to ensure potential clients find your construction or architectural business when they search online. Local SEO is particularly important for construction.
Google Business Profile
CriticalClaim and optimise with project photos, service areas, and regular updates. Respond to all reviews professionally.
Local keywords
CriticalTarget location-specific searches: 'house extension Cardiff', 'commercial builders Bristol', 'architect Newport'.
Service area pages
CriticalCreate dedicated pages for each town/city you serve with localised content and relevant projects.
Schema markup
HighImplement LocalBusiness, Organization, and Service schema. Add FAQ schema to relevant pages.
Directory listings
HighList on Checkatrade, TrustMark, MyBuilder, Houzz, industry associations. Consistent NAP everywhere.
Project content
HighPublish case studies regularly. Each completed project is an SEO opportunity for relevant search terms.
Review generation
HighSystematically request reviews after project completion. Google reviews are particularly valuable.
Technical SEO
MediumFast loading, mobile-friendly, secure (HTTPS), clean site structure, optimised images.
Content Marketing for Construction
Every completed project is a content opportunity. Write up each significant project as a case study, targeting relevant keywords. A post about completing a commercial office fit-out in Cardiff can rank for searches like "office fit-out contractors Cardiff" and bring qualified enquiries for years. Consistent content publishing builds domain authority and search visibility over time.
Construction website costs in the UK
What to expect when budgeting for a construction or architect website. Prices vary based on features and complexity.
Basic Construction Site
Typical timeline: 2-3 weeks
Typically includes: Portfolio gallery, service pages, contact form, mobile-responsive design, basic SEO
Suitable for: Small builders, trades, new businesses establishing online presence
Professional Construction Site
Typical timeline: 4-6 weeks
Typically includes: Above plus case studies, structured quote forms, accreditations page, service area pages, blog
Suitable for: Established builders, architectural practices, contractors seeking more commercial work
Premium Architect/Contractor Site
Typical timeline: 6-8 weeks
Typically includes: Above plus 3D render galleries, video integration, advanced lead generation, comprehensive SEO
Suitable for: Larger architectural firms, commercial contractors, design-led practices
Enterprise/Multi-Site
Typical timeline: 8-16 weeks
Typically includes: Custom functionality, client portals, tender management, multi-location, integrations
Suitable for: National contractors, developer groups, multi-discipline practices
Ongoing Costs to Budget For
Get an instant estimate for your construction website project.
Use our cost calculatorDisplaying health and safety credentials
For commercial work especially, your health and safety credentials can make or break your tender. Here is what to display and how.
What to Display
- SSIP accreditations (CHAS, SafeContractor, Constructionline)
- Health and safety policy summary
- CDM compliance statement
- Training certifications (CSCS, SMSTS, SSSTS)
- Safety record statistics (accident-free days, etc.)
- Environmental policy
- Insurance certificates (public liability, employers)
- Risk assessment and method statement capability
How to Present It
- Create a dedicated Health & Safety page
- Include accreditation logos on homepage footer
- Link to downloadable policy documents
- Add to your About page summary
- Mention in tender/quote request confirmations
- Include in email signatures
- Feature in case studies for commercial projects
- Update promptly when certifications renew
Frequently asked questions about construction websites
Answers to common questions about construction and architect website design, costs, and features.
How much does a construction or architect website cost in the UK?
Construction and architect website costs in the UK typically range from £1,500-£8,000+ depending on complexity. A basic brochure site with portfolio and contact details costs £1,500-£3,000. Professional sites with project case studies, 3D render galleries, and quote request systems cost £3,000-£5,000. Fully custom solutions with interactive features, client portals, and advanced lead generation can exceed £8,000. Ongoing costs include hosting (£100-400/year), maintenance (£75-250/month), and portfolio updates.
What essential features does a construction company website need?
Essential construction website features include: high-quality project portfolio with professional photography, clear service descriptions for each trade or specialisation, accreditation badges (RIBA, CIOB, FMB, NHBC, Constructionline), contact information with service area coverage, quote request or tender submission forms, case studies with before/after imagery, testimonials from past clients, health and safety credentials display, insurance and warranty information, and mobile-responsive design. Optional features include 3D renders, video walkthroughs, and project progress portals.
How should I present my construction portfolio online?
Present your construction portfolio with high-quality professional photography of completed projects. Organise by sector (residential, commercial, industrial) or project type (new builds, extensions, renovations). Each project should include: multiple images showing different angles and details, project description with scope and challenges overcome, client testimonial if available, build duration and approximate value (optional), before/after images where relevant. Use a gallery format that works well on mobile devices and loads quickly. Consider adding 3D renders for projects in progress.
How do I showcase project case studies effectively?
Effective construction case studies follow a narrative structure: the client's challenge or brief, your approach and solution, the build process with key milestones, final results with quality photography, and measurable outcomes (completed on time/budget, energy efficiency improvements, etc.). Include before/after imagery, architectural drawings or 3D visualisations, and genuine client testimonials. Video walkthroughs add significant value. Each case study should demonstrate your expertise in that particular type of project and help potential clients envision what you could do for them.
Which accreditations should I display on my construction website?
Display all relevant professional accreditations prominently. For architects: RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects), ARB (Architects Registration Board), RIAS (Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland). For builders: FMB (Federation of Master Builders), CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building), NHBC (National House Building Council), Constructionline. Also display: TrustMark, Which? Trusted Trader, Checkatrade, insurance certificates (public liability, professional indemnity), warranty schemes (NHBC, LABC), and any specialist certifications (Passivhaus, BREEAM). These badges build trust and should be visible on your homepage and dedicated accreditations page.
Should I include 3D renders and visualisations on my website?
Yes, 3D renders and architectural visualisations are highly valuable for construction and architect websites. They help potential clients understand your design capabilities and envision completed projects. Include renders of current projects in progress, conceptual designs that showcase your style, and before/after comparisons showing existing buildings alongside proposed designs. Interactive 3D viewers and virtual reality walkthroughs are increasingly popular. Ensure renders are optimised for fast loading - use compressed formats and consider lazy loading for galleries.
How should I handle quote and tender requests on my website?
Implement a structured quote request form that captures essential project information: project type (new build, extension, renovation), location, approximate budget range, timeline, planning status, and contact details. Allow file uploads for plans, drawings, or specification documents. For tender requests, create a separate professional form or portal. Include clear information about your tender process and response timeframes. Consider progressive forms that adjust questions based on project type. Always acknowledge submissions immediately with an automated response and follow up personally within 24-48 hours.
How do I display health and safety credentials on my website?
Create a dedicated health and safety page and summary on your about page. Display: SSIP (Safety Schemes in Procurement) accreditations like CHAS, SafeContractor, or Constructionline Gold, your health and safety policy summary, relevant training certifications (CSCS cards, SMSTS, SSSTS), site safety procedures, environmental policies, and CDM (Construction Design and Management) compliance information. For larger contractors, include your safety record statistics. These credentials are increasingly important for commercial contracts and give residential clients confidence in your professionalism.
How can my construction company rank higher on Google?
Improve your construction company's Google ranking by: claiming and optimising your Google Business Profile with project photos and regular updates, using local SEO keywords naturally ('builders Cardiff', 'architect Newport', 'house extension Bristol'), creating location-specific landing pages for each service area, publishing case studies and blog content about completed projects, encouraging client reviews on Google and responding to them professionally, ensuring your website is mobile-friendly and fast-loading, getting listed in construction directories (Checkatrade, TrustMark, MyBuilder), and building backlinks from industry associations and local business directories.
Should I include video content on my construction website?
Yes, video content is highly effective for construction and architect websites. Include: project walkthrough videos showing completed builds, time-lapse videos of construction progress, drone footage of large projects, client testimonial videos, team introduction videos, and 'how we work' explainer content. Host videos on YouTube or Vimeo and embed on your site for better loading performance. Short clips (30-90 seconds) work best for attention spans. Virtual tours using 360-degree video or Matterport scans are particularly impressive for showcasing completed properties.
Need a website for your construction company?
Web Cardiff creates professional websites for construction companies, architectural practices, and building contractors across Wales and the UK. Portfolio-focused sites that showcase your work beautifully and generate quality enquiries. Let us discuss your project.
Construction website checklist
Before Launch
- Professional portfolio photography
- Clear service descriptions
- Accreditation badges displayed
- Service area coverage defined
- Quote request form tested
- Mobile-responsive design verified
- Page load time under 3 seconds
- Health & safety credentials page
- Case studies with testimonials
- Google Business Profile claimed
Ongoing Tasks
- Add new projects within 4-6 weeks of completion
- Photograph every significant project
- Update accreditation when certifications renew
- Respond to Google reviews
- Publish case studies regularly
- Check all forms and links work
- Monitor page speed
- Review and update SEO keywords
- Backup website regularly
- Review analytics monthly
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