Since this week is National Storytelling Week, we decided we’d like to share with you the story of our journey, from our foundation in 2013, to where we are now.

Design Studio Architects was formed in 2013. The directors have both come from experienced roles with well-established architect practices, such as Pick Everard and leading housing developer (Bloor Homes) to create a design-led commercial practice which trades on the reputation for efficient design and delivery. The practice initially ran from a small office in the city centre and relocated back in 2014 to its current location off Upper New Walk.

The biggest challenge for any emerging architect studio is always to find good clients and interesting projects to work on. As a young practice, it can be difficult to get your first break. We are lucky that we have found some really exciting projects by building on our existing network of contacts. The practice gained RIBA Chartership in 2014 and expanded the team from 3 to 9 in our first three years and plan to build to over the next few years.

Our philosophy is to work without preconceptions to ascertain the unique qualities of each brief, taking into consideration the social, environmental, economic and technological context.

We are deeply curious about how thoughtful design can make people feel, and the positive impact it can create, whether it’s a comfortable and functional place for someone to live or something more magical

We’re keen to explore new areas and are in early discussions with various sectors to increase our project types in 2018.