92 Build 2017 Architecture Awards longside a full architecture and interior design offering, SKM Design also provide a signage and graphic design service and provide technical advice on installations for home cinema and audio systems. Its latest addition to its services is an insured drone service with a maximum insured height of 500m high and 8000m out, which enables staff to capture high quality 4K aerial photographs of projects prior to construction, during the build process and after completion. This means the firm is able to take amazing images of virtually any project at any stage. Sanjay outlines some of the key challenges that the firm has had to overcome regarding its latest projects, as well as listing some aspects of a new project that he is particularly proud of. “At SKM Design, we have a number of recent exciting projects in the various main sectors of work, however, we had recently been invited to tender for an extension and operating suite to a main doctor’s surgery. This was all new to us but with lots of research into this sector’s regulations and specifications we were able to win this project, beating two other firms, with a carefully considered redesign of the space, resulting in minimal disruption to the practice which will remain open throughout the entire project.” Discussing the overall mission of the firm, Sanjay states that the firm wants to be a leader in the architectural industry as well as improve the structure of its interior and overall design services. Focusing on supporting the client in all aspects of design, the firm works from start to finish with the client. “Aiming to be one of the leaders in the market, our overall mission is to be ahead of the architectural, interiors and overall design game. We do try to lead by our unique approach to design, catering for all our clients’ needs which has led to us venturing into new sectors such as graphic design. These graphic design services came about from a client’s request for us to help them in the design and development of a new company logo, stationery and corporate identity.” Regarding how the firm approaches client service, Sanjay tells us how the company ensures that all staff provide the best possible service to clients. Building and maintaining relationships with clients is a key part of the service offered at SKM Design, with a firm emphasis placed on trust, all of which contributes to a high success rate. Best Architecture & Interior Design Practice - Leicestershire SKM Design are award-winning Architects, project managers and interior designers for large commercial and residential projects across the UK. We spoke to Managing Director Sanjay Mistry to discuss more about the firm and explore the secrets behind its success. Contact: Sanjay K Mistry Contact Email:
[email protected] Address: Unit D, Edward House, Grange Business Park, Enderby Road, Whetstone, Leicester, LE8 6EP, UK Phone: 0116 2779600 AR170109 A “Similar to our overall mission, we aim to cater for all our clients’ needs, sometimes this is not as easy as it may sound and has often been a steep learning curve not only for myself but also for others in the practice. This holistic approach enables us to not only continually develop ourselves but also helps us to provide services to clients not often found in traditional architectural firms. Offering loss leaders to clients, which can involve many hours of initial work for no return, we are able to achieve an 80% success rate on new business and earn respect from many long-standing clients, which alone speaks volumes. We also like to offer something a little bit different from what other practices are doing, and it turns out that’s what a lot of our clients want, and that’s one of the reasons why they come to us.” In an ever evolving industry, technology is becoming an increasingly essential aspect of any business in order for firms to stay ahead of developments, particularly within architecture. Sanjay notes this as a challenge, stating that technology is always outdated. “Technology in our industry is always a bit of a sore point as no sooner have you bought the latest versions then they are outdated. We focus on quality rather than adapting around the latest fad. Instead, the team concentrate more on the development of our technology and knowledge of our tools and software, allowing better management of projects, client interaction with projects and a more complete approach in fulfilling clients’ aspirations.” Ultimately, working on improving features of the company enables this team to keep ahead. The projects that the firm has recently undertaken will contribute to the company’s brighter future, as in architecture, a lot of business can come through word of mouth and reputation. Excelling on a recently acquired hotel project in London will undoubtedly leave the firm in the best place to expand and capitalise on its success. “Fortunately, we are able to see a little ahead as we have several exciting schemes on the virtual drawing board. Without giving too much away, we are working on a major apartment scheme, a new hotel in London and an elaborate place of worship, hopefully these will bless us with more exciting projects in the future.”