Design West, the Bristol-based centre of excellence for design and placemaking, has welcomed a new Chair of Trustees, Nick Fairham, Chief Executive of global multidisciplinary design practice BDP. He has joined Design West at a crucial time in the charity’s development as it grows its design review and placemaking services, expands its public programme of talks and continues to provide a vibrant home for design across the South West.
Nick’s leadership draws on strategic thinking and creativity. His approach inspires a clarity of integrated thinking across his global network, combining the functional and experiential in design. His projects are thoughtful and responsive to the needs of his clients and a genuine pleasure for all users.
Nick Fairham, Chief Executive at BDP, who is based in the Bristol studio of BDP says:
“Design West plays an invaluable role in helping to shape Bristol and the wider region into the sort of place that’s fit for the future, taking on board the needs of citizens in an equitable and socially responsible way. By bringing together a diverse range of professionals from the built environment, the public, politicians, developers and stakeholders, the organisation facilitates rounded conversations which take a wide range of views into account. There’s a lot of synergy between the role I currently do at BDP and the role at Design West and I felt I could add value by sharing best practice in a city and region I call my home.”
Design West’s Director, Anna Rutherford says:
“The design of our built and natural environment has a profound impact on all our lives on a daily basis, from the quality of the homes we live in, the design of our commutes and communities, schools and hospitals, and the public realm we share. Nick brings his international experience and local knowledge to the role of chair at an important time for Design West as we expand and develop our remit inspiring, informing and involving people in the design of the world around them and we look forward to benefiting from the insight he can bring our organisation.”
Nick replaces Nick Childs, who chaired the board for the previous six years.
Design West’s services include placemaking, design consultancy, public engagement, education and strategy.
BDP is an international, multidisciplinary practice of architects, engineers, designers and urbanists. BDP works closely with users, clients and communities to create special places for living, working, shopping, culture and learning across the world.
