Architect firm drawing up big plans at new HQ
A fast expanding architects and engineering firm has relocated to Sunderland as part of ambitious plans to double its turnover.
Building Design Northern (BDN) has made the move from Durham to its newly renovated HQ, the former Simpson Street School, close to Riverside Sunderland.
The company is leading the wider redevelopment of the former school building and has already grown its headcount to 19 in the last 12 months.
The £1m renovation project has created a new headquarters with space for up to 30 people, and will also see eight loft apartments developed for rent in a separate part of the building.
MD Richard Marsden, who worked at BDN for 13 years before completing a management buy-out in 2019, said: “We’re a really ambitious practice, with a dynamic team with the ability to support a broad range of projects.
“Our relocation to our own headquarters in Sunderland, along with a range of changes to the structure of the business, will stand us in good stead to accelerate our growth, and to bolster our own development capabilities, which is an increasingly important part of our business.”
BDN completed the purchase of its new office from Sunderland City Council last year.
It has since undertaken a comprehensive revamp that have transformed the derelict space into an office packed with original features, but fully modernised.
Peter McIntyre, executive director of city development, said: “We’re delighted to see BDN make the move to Sunderland as part of their ambitious expansion plans.”