Architects draw up plans for growth with acquisition of London design firm

BENOY, based in Newark, has acquired London design studio Holmes Wood as it looks to expand into complementary business areas beyond its roots as an architecture and design firm.

The company said the deal realises its vision to become a “multi-boutique leader” and, as the UK approaches Brexit, it says it is ideally placed to secure and deliver new commercial opportunities abroad.

Holmes Wood specialises in wayfinding, sign and graphic design and delivers projects for major galleries, museums and other institutions.

Clients include The Tate, The Victoria and Albert Museum, Oxford University, Virgin Atlantic, EasyJet, Hammerson and Battersea Power Station.

Tom Cartledge, CEO, Benoy Group said: “We are excited to welcome Holmes Wood into the Benoy Group and help support the business expand internationally. The mix of Benoy’s architecture, masterplanning and interiors skills alongside Holmes Wood’s pioneering wayfinding and graphic design makes for an extraordinarily powerful combination, delivering complete commercial solutions for our clients. I am confident that this acquisition will mark the beginning of a new phase of growth for Benoy Group and we look forward to expanding our capabilities into new sectors going forward.”

Lucy Holmes, owner of Holmes Wood, added: “Over the last 16 years we have created a studio that delivers world class solutions in a new area of design: branding the built environment through graphic, wayfinding and sign design. Creating solutions that marry with architecture and interior design is absolutely key to our success and we see joining Benoy Group as the perfect fit.”

The Benoy Group is building on the success of the Benoy brand over the past 70 years. With an industry leading multi-boutique approach Benoy Group offers best-in class expertise, technical knowledge and creative talent to our clients. As a UK-based company Benoy Group champions British design innovation around the world with a growing footprint in Dubai, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Wholly owned by Benoy Group, Holmes Wood will retain its brand and operational independence under the umbrella of the Benoy Group.