Architectural practice returns to Connect Derby

A newly rebranded architectural practice has taken up premises at Connect Derby’s £4.4 million Sadler Bridge Studios in the city’s Cathedral Quarter.

JSA Architects – formerly Justin Smith Architects – previously spent ten years at the managed workspace operator’s Friar Gate Studios site before opening a new head office on Queen Street in 2017.

The firm has now decided to return to the Connect Derby fold as it looks to continue its expansion.

JSA’s founder Justin Smith said: “A lot can happen in a short space of time in the built environment industry and we are excited to embark on the next phase of the company’s development.

“After searching for suitable office accommodation, it became clear that Sadler Bridge Studios was the perfect home for us – it has all the facilities we need and more.

“As we have been informally known as JSA for some time, it made sense for us to make the change official. Although we have changed our name, we are still committed to providing the same levels of excellence we have become renowned for over the past 15 years.

“Special thanks go out to Ann Bhatti for her continued support. She welcomed us when we became the first business to take space at Friar Gate Studios and has been on-hand once again to help with our relocation to Sadler Bridge Studios.”

Ann Bhatti, head of Connect Derby, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Justin and his team back to Connect Derby. They were fantastic tenants for more than 10 years and it’s really gratifying to know that having looked for offices across the city, they still had the confidence that Connect Derby was best placed to support their continued development.

“I’d like to wish JS Architects continued success and look forward to building on our strong working relationship.”

Sadler Bridge Studios comprises 36 office units ranging in size from 150 sq ft to 550 sq ft and a Scandinavian-style café.