Business Details
37 Years
experience
Your Trusted Architectural Partner in Birmingham
We are a design-led architectural practice with over three decades of experience delivering bespoke, client-focused solutions across multiple sectors. Our team combines technical expertise with creative innovation to produce high-quality buildings that enhance both functionality and aesthetics. We prioritise sustainable design principles, integrating environmental considerations into every project to minimise ecological impact while maximising value for clients. Our collaborative approach ensures strong client relationships from project inception to completion, with a proven track record in transportation, education, community, residential, and commercial sectors.We maintain rigorous professional standards through ISO 9001 and 14001 certifications, RIBA chartered practice status, and active engagement with architectural education. Our commitment to excellence is demonstrated through award-winning projects and long-standing partnerships with public and private sector clients across the UK and internationally.
Services
Transportation Architecture
Education Sector Design
Residential Development
Commercial Architecture
Sports & Leisure Facilities
Heritage Restoration
BIM Modelling
Sustainable Design
Masterplanning
Community Projects
Details
- Year established: 1989
Highlights and features
- We have over 35 years' experience in architectural design across 6 key sectors
- Our team includes RIBA Chartered Architects and CIAT-qualified technologists
- We implement ISO-certified quality and environmental management systems
- Our practice maintains active partnerships with Birmingham City University
- We deliver sustainable solutions aligned with RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge targets
Associations and certifications
- ISO 9001
- ISO 14001
- RIBA Chartered Practice
- Architects Registration Board (ARB)
- Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT)
- Cyber Essentials Plus
- Living Wage Employer
Services
Transportation Architecture
We specialise in comprehensive transportation architecture including rail stations, airports, and multimodal hubs. Our designs integrate functional efficiency with aesthetic appeal, ensuring seamless passenger experiences while meeting strict regulatory requirements. Projects incorporate sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems to reduce environmental impact.
Education Sector Design
Our education architecture covers nurseries through university facilities, focusing on creating inspiring learning environments. We combine pedagogical insights with spatial innovation to deliver flexible, future-proof spaces that enhance educational outcomes while maintaining strict budgetary and safety parameters.
Residential Development
We deliver diverse residential projects from high-end private homes to large-scale apartment developments. Our approach balances contextual sensitivity with modern living requirements, incorporating sustainable construction methods and smart space planning to maximise resident satisfaction.
Heritage Restoration
Specialising in historic building preservation, we combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to restore architectural heritage. Our work in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter demonstrates our ability to sensitively integrate contemporary interventions while maintaining historical integrity.
BIM Modelling
We utilise advanced BIM technology throughout the design process to enhance collaboration and construction accuracy. Our digital tools enable real-time project visualisation, clash detection, and efficient lifecycle management, ensuring technical excellence across all project phases.
People
Ian Saunders
Partner
Founding partner with 35+ years' experience in architectural practice. Specialises in design innovation and practice management. Holds degrees from Birmingham School of Architecture. Passionate about architectural education and sustainable design.
Joel Kempsey-Fagg
Partner
Senior partner with extensive transportation sector expertise. Specialises in rail and aviation infrastructure. Holds Birmingham City University architecture qualifications. Focuses on client relationships and technical excellence in complex projects.
Jennifer Moffat
Senior Architect
Qualified architect with expertise in sustainable design and passive house principles. Specialises in education and residential sectors. Holds postgraduate qualifications in sustainable construction. Committed to healthy building practices and community engagement.
Jake Mace
Architect
Award-winning architect with expertise in contextual design solutions. Specialises in residential and commercial projects. Holds first-class degrees from UWE Bristol and University of Bath. Recipient of multiple architectural awards including RTPI Urban Planner of the Year.
Phil Russell
Associate
Office management specialist with extensive business administration experience. Focuses on operational efficiency and client relationship management. Promotes work-life balance and healthy workplace culture within the practice.
Questions
What architectural sectors does D5 Architects specialise in?
We specialise in transportation, education, residential, commercial, community, and heritage sectors with nationwide experience.
Are your architects professionally accredited?
All our architects are RIBA members and ARB-registered, with CIAT-qualified technologists supporting technical delivery.
How do you incorporate sustainability into projects?
We follow RIBA 2030 Climate Challenge targets, using BREEAM assessments and passive design principles to minimise environmental impact.
Can you handle complex heritage projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter and other conservation areas, combining traditional techniques with modern interventions.
Do you work outside the Birmingham area?
We operate nationally with completed projects in London, Manchester, Portsmouth, Edinburgh, and other UK locations.
How do you ensure project quality control?
We maintain ISO 9001-certified quality management systems with regular internal reviews and client feedback mechanisms.
