New architecture firm opens in Derby
A new architect has opened the doors of its Sadler Bridge Studios on Bold Lane in Derby, with the promise of creating new jobs.
Founded by Elizabeth ‘Izzy’ Rhodes, Swain Architecture will specialise in both commercial and residential builds in the Midlands and across the UK.
Having trained at the Manchester School of Architecture and Nottingham University, Rhodes has spent the past 11 years working on projects across the UK and Europe, at firms including Derby-based Simon Foote Architects, Leicestershire’s Brooker Flynn and HSSP and international firm Benoy Architects.
Rhodes also sits on the Royal Institute of British Architects’ (RIBA) Education and Housing and Planning committees for the East Midlands and is an external examiner for the University of Nottingham’s RIBA Part III course.
She said: “Architecture is my life-long passion and I’m delighted to launch my own practice. As opposed to churning out characterless ‘white boxes’, I consider contextualism to be very important, and each project should always relate to its surroundings and setting.
“At Swain Architecture, we are proud of our client centred approach, putting the personality, lifestyle and budget of clients at the heart of every blueprint, regardless of the project at hand. These principles apply just as much to commercial projects as they do to residential ones – you have to think how the building is going to be used and ensure it’s fit for purpose – in terms of functionality and of course, aesthetic.”
Swain Architecture says it will add to its current team of four, with plans to hire two new members of staff by the end of 2018.
