Architecture practice HLM Architects has appointed Simon Reid as studio director of its Birmingham studio, which is due to open this summer.
Reid, who has 15 years of experience in leading multi-disciplinary teams and delivering high‑impact public sector and community projects across the Midlands, joins the practice from Lungfish Architects, where he served as managing director.
HLM’s Birmingham studio will be the practice’s eighth location across the UK and Ireland, joining its existing studios in Sheffield, London, Plymouth, Cardiff, Glasgow, Belfast and Dublin.
Reid said: “I’m delighted to be joining HLM Architects and to be launching our new Birmingham studio. The Midlands is experiencing a wave of regeneration and long-term investment across public services, infrastructure and placemaking. Establishing a permanent base here gives us the opportunity to work even more closely with clients and partners, to grow our regional presence, and to support the delivery of projects that have real and lasting social impact.”
Philip Watson, chair and head of design at HLM Architects, added: “Opening our eighth HLM studio, right in the heart of Birmingham, is an important milestone for our practice. It reflects the momentum we’re building and the scale of opportunity across the West Midlands, from major health and education programmes to long‑term justice, defence and emergency services estates.
“Strengthening our national resilience and deepening our regional presence is a strategic priority for HLM. Birmingham provides the ideal base to broaden our reach, enhance our framework capabilities, and tap into a new and diverse talent pool. As a Brummie myself, it’s great to be returning to the city, and we are thrilled to welcome Simon to the team and excited for the opportunities ahead.”
