We’re delighted to announce the promotion of Carl Harding and David Banner to Regional Directors, leading our studios in Truro and Plymouth respectively.
Their appointments reflect the remarkable growth of both studios and the strength of our people in the South West. Together, Carl and Dave will oversee the teams—which often work together to deliver projects across Cornwall and Devon—while bringing their own leadership styles and strategic focus to each location.
Carl Harding, Regional Director – Truro
Having grown up in Cornwall—and now leading our 12-person Truro team in their newly refurbished studio—Carl brings a rare blend of deep local understanding and global design experience. His career spans international projects in Shanghai and Perth, along with major projects in the UK, including some of Devon and Cornwall’s most socially and economically significant schemes.
“We’re in a unique position: a small local team backed by the support and resources of a national practice. We live here, we understand the region, and we’re delivering projects that really matter, like new buildings at South Crofty Mine, a feasibility for an Agri-Food Hub, and essential education and healthcare projects.”
Carl will continue to nurture a strong studio culture rooted in collaboration and creativity, ensuring Truro remains a place where people grow and great work happens.
Dave Banner, Regional Director – Plymouth
Dave steps into the Regional Director role for Plymouth at an exciting point in the studio’s journey. With a refreshed leadership team, a newly refurbished space, and a strong foundation of talented people already in place, there’s real momentum behind the next chapter.
A longstanding member and former Chair of our Employee Forum, Dave is committed to strengthening culture, communication, and team connection. His aim is to ensure our Plymouth studio remains known for the quality and creativity of its work.
“There’s a lot of energy in the studio right now. We’ve got brilliant people, a fantastic new workspace, and some great projects on the go. My role is about bringing clarity to our direction, supporting the team’s creative potential, and helping us build even more confidence in what we can achieve.”
A shared leadership approach
While Carl and Dave will each lead their own studios, they will continue working closely together on projects across Devon and Cornwall. As Dave puts it:
“We’ve got brilliant people across both studios. It’s about creating the conditions where they can do their best work, and making sure that’s recognised across the region.”
Congratulations Carl and Dave! Please get in touch if you’d like to learn more about our work in the South West.
