Business Details
44 Years
experience
Expert Architects for Sustainable Community Projects in Birmingham
Axis Design Architects are architects and urban designers with a focus on housing design, community projects, and sustainability. Our practice combines over 40 years of collective experience in delivering projects ranging from neighbourhood masterplanning to individual residential designs. We prioritise sustainability and environmental design, integrating theoretical research with practical applications through initiatives like Building Information Modelling (BIM). Our work with public sectors and community groups positions us to support resident-led projects, including self-build homes and community centres.Directors Mike Menzies and Rob Annable bring extensive expertise, with notable projects such as the Cotteridge Park Cafe and the Birmingham Settlement Nature and Wellbeing Centre. We contribute to architectural education at Birmingham School of Architecture and have secured multiple awards for energy-efficient designs. Our use of digital tools ensures precision and visualisation throughout the design process, reflecting our commitment to innovation and client collaboration.
Services
Housing Design
Community Projects
Sustainability Consultancy
Urban Design
Self-Build Guidance
BIM Services
Flood Resilient Housing
Energy Refurbishment
Masterplanning
Consultation
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- We have over 20 years of experience in housing design and urban planning.
- Our projects integrate sustainability with award-winning energy-efficient practices.
- We utilise Building Information Modelling (BIM) for precision and client collaboration.
- Our directors hold academic roles, ensuring research-driven design solutions.
- We specialise in community-led projects with proven consultation expertise.
Services
Housing Design
We create innovative housing solutions tailored to client needs and environmental contexts. Our expertise spans custom homes, social housing, and flood-resilient designs. Projects integrate sustainability with functional aesthetics, ensuring long-term value for residents and communities.
Community Projects
Specialising in community centres and public buildings, we collaborate with stakeholders to deliver spaces that enhance wellbeing. Recent projects include the Witton Lakes Ecohub and Birmingham Settlement Community Building, both shortlisted for RIBA awards.
Sustainability Consultancy
Our consultancy addresses climate resilience through energy-efficient refurbishments and low-carbon materials. We advise on standards like Passivhaus and implement solar passive design principles to reduce environmental impact across urban developments.
Urban Design
We develop holistic urban strategies, including estate regeneration and neighbourhood masterplans. Projects like the Pype Hayes Estate demonstrate our ability to balance community needs with sustainable infrastructure and aesthetic coherence.
Self-Build Guidance
We support individuals in constructing custom homes through design expertise and practical advice. Our experience includes cost-effective strategies and navigating planning approvals for self-build projects in the West Midlands.
People
Rob Annable
Director
Rob Annable, a RIBA-accredited director, has led housing and masterplanning projects since joining Axis Design in 1998. His work includes award-winning eco-housing in Stourbridge and energy-efficient refurbishments. He also lectures at Birmingham School of Architecture.
Mike Menzies
Director
Mike Menzies co-founded Axis Design in 1981 and specialises in community-led urban design. With a career spanning 50 years, he has contributed to major regeneration projects like the Lyng Estate and Brandwood End housing scheme.
Questions
What areas do Axis Design Architects serve?
We primarily operate in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and Stoke-on-Trent, with projects across the West Midlands and beyond.
Do you specialise in sustainable architecture?
Yes, sustainability underpins all our work, from energy-efficient refurbishments to flood-resilient housing and low-carbon materials.
Can you assist with self-build home projects?
Yes, we offer design and guidance services for self-build homes, leveraging our own practical experience in the sector.
What software do you use for design projects?
We use Building Information Modelling (BIM) software to ensure accuracy and efficiency in design and visualisation.
Have your projects won any awards?
Yes, our projects have been shortlisted for RIBA awards and won accolades for energy efficiency and urban regeneration.
