Design Studio Architects 2025 Spotlight

Design Studio Architects (DSA) is known for delivering well-crafted, commercially viable architecture that balances creativity with real-world constraints. The practice focuses on buildability, contextual design and navigating planning frameworks with confidence and clarity.

Areas of Expertise:

• Residential and Mixed-Use Developments
• Student Accommodation
• Heritage and Conservation Area Design
• Feasibility Studies and Planning Applications

DSA’s approach is rooted in collaboration, technical understanding and strategic thinking. This enables the team to consistently produce architecture that is imaginative, contextually responsive, and grounded in the practical realities of development and delivery.

DSA a leading architectural practice known for its pragmatic, design-led approach, has secured planning approval for a major development at Greyfriars in Leicester. The milestone marks a significant achievement for the studio, which continues to build momentum with a growing pipeline of residential and mixed-use projects including several now underway in London.

Located in the heart of Leicester’s historic quarter, the Greyfriars scheme reflects DSA’s strength in responding to complex urban contexts. The approved plans combine contemporary architectural expression with sensitivity to the site's heritage surroundings, unlocking the potential of a long-underutilised set of buildings.

“Greyfriars is a key example of how we approach design: with clarity, context, and a strong sense of deliverability,” said Keshiv Sudera, Managing Director at Design Studio Architects. “We’re proud to have worked closely with local stakeholders to bring forward a scheme that respects the area’s character while delivering high-quality submission.”

Building on its regional success, DSA is currently engaged on a series of new projects across London, bringing its clear-thinking, commercially focused design process to some of the capital’s most challenging urban sites. These include a mix of residential and mixed-use developments, each tailored to its context and aligned with client goals.

The studio’s growing London portfolio demonstrates its ability to work at scale while maintaining attention to detail, regulatory insight and design integrity.

Recent project submissions include:

A full planning application has been submitted for a new residential development in Cheshunt, just outside North London.

The proposal includes the demolition of two existing properties to make way for a thoughtfully designed scheme delivering 19 high-quality homes across two apartment blocks a three-storey building fronting the street and a four-storey block to the rear. The plans also feature landscaped grounds, secure cycle parking and enhanced boundary treatments.

This contemporary development is tailored to meet local housing needs while enhancing the area’s character through sustainable design and placemaking.

A planning application has been submitted for the demolition of an existing office building and the construction of 22 new apartments in Ilford, East London. The proposed scheme will replace the former commercial structure with a high-quality, contextual residential development, featuring a range of 2–3 bedroom layouts tailored to modern urban families.

The design has been carefully considered to integrate with and uplift the surrounding streetscape, contributing positively to the local character.

This project forms part of DSA’s expanding portfolio across London and the surrounding regions, reflecting the practice’s ongoing commitment to addressing housing needs while raising architectural and design standards.

Design Studio Architects is delighted to join Team Leicester, becoming part of a dynamic network committed to the city’s growth and success. As a practice proudly rooted in Leicestershire, joining Team Leicester marks an exciting step in deepening their engagement with the local development community. With a strong focus on collaboration, innovation and placemaking, the team is passionate about shaping a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable built environment.

Design Studio Architects looks forward to working closely with Leicester City Council and key partners, while helping promote Leicester as a leading destination for investment, opportunity, and progress both nationally and internationally.