An award-winning architecture practice has opened a studio in Plymouth amid growing regional demand.
HLM Architects, which also has sites in Sheffield, Belfast, Cardiff, Glasgow, London and Dublin, will be based in creative workspace Alma Yard.
The new studio marks a return to Plymouth for the firm, which had an office in the city until 2018.
Kay Hanson, a designer who spent 14 years at HLM earlier in her career and lectured at Arts University Plymouth and University of Plymouth, will head up the new studio.
She said: “I’m delighted to be back at HLM and relaunching our Plymouth base. All of our studios are rooted in their respective communities, and this will be no different. I’m extremely passionate about the South West and looking forward to leading a team that can grow and thrive here.
“We believe that architecture is most impactful when it’s embedded in place, and this studio will offer talented individuals the chance to build their careers locally, within a practice that values both community engagement and design excellence.”
HLM has designed several projects in the area, including Whitleigh Education Campus; Chamberlain House at Plymouth Science Park; the Marine Station at Coxside; and Brannell School in Cornwall.
It has also worked with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, the Royal Navy at HMNB Devonport, and the wider defence sector across the region
Michael Scherdel, managing director of HLM Architects, added: “We’ve seen a significant rise in opportunities across the South West, so returning to Plymouth feels like a very natural step for the business and reflects our confidence in the region.
“With major investment and regeneration underway, we’re looking forward to playing a role in shaping the region’s future and continuing to build on our strong relationships here.”
