Business Details
35 Years
experience
Trusted Animal Care Facility Architects in Palm Harbor
Bacon Group Architecture has spent over three decades designing functional, impactful buildings for animal care facilities. Founded in 1991 by Richard S. Bacon, our firm specializes in architectural design, sustainable planning, and interior design tailored to animal shelters, veterinary hospitals, and high-volume spay/neuter clinics. With LEED accreditation and Fear Free certification, we prioritize creating healthy environments that enhance animal welfare and operational efficiency. Our team of licensed professionals collaborates closely with clients to deliver cost-effective, energy-efficient solutions that align with community needs.Recognized for award-winning projects like the Jacksonville Humane Society Community Animal Hospital, we combine technical expertise with a deep understanding of animal care systems. Our commitment to transparency, client collaboration, and sustainable practices ensures every project meets rigorous standards for quality and durability. Headquartered in Palm Harbor, Florida, we serve public and nonprofit clients nationwide, transforming outdated facilities into modern, life-saving spaces.
Services
Architectural Design
Interior Design
Sustainable Design
Construction Observation
Design Programming
LEED Certification
Animal Shelter Design
Veterinary Hospital Design
Space Analysis
Cost Estimating
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of specialized experience in animal care facility design
- LEED-certified and Fear Free-trained design professionals
- Proven track record of award-winning, energy-efficient projects
- Collaborative approach prioritizing client goals and community needs
- Nationwide expertise serving public and nonprofit animal welfare organizations
Associations and certifications
- LEED Accreditation
- Fear Free Certified
- American Institute of Architects (AIA)
- Pinellas County Small Business Enterprise (SBE)
What people say
Doubled adoptions
78% decrease in euthanasia
LEED certified
Award-winning designs
Experienced team
Services
Animal Shelter Design
Bacon Group specializes in designing modern animal shelters that reduce stress and improve adoption rates. Our spaces incorporate efficient layouts, durable materials, and natural lighting to enhance animal health and human interaction. Each design addresses specific community needs while meeting sustainability standards.
Veterinary Hospital Design
We create functional veterinary hospitals with specialized zones for exams, surgery, and diagnostics. Designs prioritize workflow efficiency, infection control, and client comfort, incorporating advanced mechanical systems and durable finishes to support high-volume care.
Sustainable Design
Our LEED-certified team integrates energy-efficient systems, renewable materials, and passive design strategies. Projects like the Pasco County Technology Center demonstrate cost savings through solar panels, efficient HVAC, and hurricane-resistant construction while maintaining environmental responsibility.
Construction Observation
We provide comprehensive construction administration services, ensuring adherence to design specifications and budgets. Our team monitors progress, addresses field issues, and verifies compliance with building codes to deliver high-quality, functional facilities on schedule.
Design Programming
We analyze client needs to develop detailed facility programs, optimizing layouts for animal flow, staff efficiency, and public interaction. This phase establishes spatial relationships and operational requirements that guide the entire design process.
People
Richard S. Bacon
President and Principal Architect
With over 30 years of experience, Richard founded Bacon Group in 1991. A LEED-AP and Fear Free Certified architect, he specializes in animal care facilities and holds licenses in six states. He leads design innovation and strategic growth.
Nicole J. Mirabelli
Project Architect
A licensed architect with LEED and Fear Free certifications, Nicole contributes expertise in sustainable design and animal welfare standards. She manages complex projects from concept through construction, ensuring technical excellence and client satisfaction.
Laura P. Badraun
Project Architect
Laura brings specialized knowledge in animal facility design, focusing on functional layouts and regulatory compliance. Her work emphasizes creating stress-free environments for animals and efficient spaces for caretakers across diverse projects.
Questions
How much does it cost to build an animal shelter?
Animal shelter construction typically costs $350–$400 per square foot, excluding site preparation, permits, and equipment. Costs vary based on location, materials, and system complexity.
Can I purchase pre-designed plans from Bacon Group?
Bacon Group provides custom designs tailored to specific sites and codes. We do not sell pre-designed plans due to jurisdictional requirements and project-specific needs.
What services are included in architectural fees?
Fees include design, construction documents, bidding assistance, and construction observation. Basic engineering services are included; specialized consultants are additional.
How are architectural fees calculated?
Fees are typically 9–12% of construction costs, depending on project complexity, schedule, and scope of services required.
What project delivery methods do you use?
We work with design/bid/build, construction management, and design/build methods, selecting the approach that best aligns with client goals and project requirements.
How are architects qualified?
Architects undergo 5–6 years of education, 3+ years of internship, and pass rigorous licensing exams. Continuing education ensures compliance with evolving standards and technologies.
