For Danny, the best buildings are a result of intensive collaboration with end users and design team consultants. The key is to integrate the architecture with landscape, engineering and interior design.
Danny is Regional Director for one our three Bristol studios and Head of Schools & Colleges. His project experience to date covers all ages of education including University and Life Science buildings.
He is the RIBA Bristol-Bath Regional Chair 2022-24.
If you weren’t in this career, what would you be?
Something high energy that combines my passions for food and football. Perhaps a baker in the morning and a defensive midfielder in the afternoon to help run off the carbs.
What’s your favourite project you’ve worked on to date?
Health and Life Sciences, University of Reading. Starting out on the project with limited science experience, I wrongly labelled the ‘Phlebotomy’ room as a ‘Lobotomy’ room on the plans. I was left feeling very embarrassed when the professor picked up my mistake and, it’s safe to say, I now listen much harder in meetings.
What are the key challenges that affect your sector, or are likely to in the next five years?
I look at Scandinavian schools with envy. They have some of the highest education spending per GDP alongside a culture of advocating for good design. Having inspirational education facilities, particularly schools, should take higher priority in the UK.
Interesting fact that nobody knows about you?
I used to DJ Tamla Motown and Northern Soul music. There’s nothing better to get people on the dance floor.
Best building in your city?
There are too many to choose from but if I had to pick one it would be Clifton Cathedral. I pass it on the way to the Bristol studio and the recent refurbishment has been executed superbly. I also love the buildings around the harbourside that have the heft and weightiness of Florentine architecture, as well as the Bristol Byzantine style.
Industry bodies:
- RIBA
- RIBA Bristol-Bath Regional Chair 2022-24
Awards:
- G4C South West Future Leader, (Winner, 2019)
- Health and Life Sciences – Education Estates: Innovation in Delivering Value (Winner, 2021)
- Health and Life Sciences – FX International Interior Design Awards: UK Project of the Year / Public Sector (Shortlisted, 2022)
