DB3 Magazine

News

DB3 Positions Business for Next Phase of Growth

DB3 Group has strengthened its leadership structure to support the next phase of the business. Read more.

Blog

DB3 Takes RISQS So That You Don’t Have To

We’ve renewed our RISQS accreditation following our 2026 audit, strengthening our position in the rail sector with additional RICCL codes. Want to know what this means in practice? Read more.

Blog

Stop Waiting for Perfect: Meanwhile Use is a Local Authority Superpower

Local authorities are sitting on untapped space. Learn how meanwhile use and active wellbeing can activate land.

Blog

The Building Good Employer Guide 2026

DB3 has been named a Building Good Employer for 2026. Discover how we support our people through training, wellbeing and inclusive workplace culture.

Blog

Welcoming Our New Business Development Manager

DB3 welcomes Laura Shepherd as Business Development Manager. With over 25 years experience, Laura strengthens our Strategic Growth team, and will play a key role in building client relationships across our key sectors.

Blog

From Leisure Centres to Active Wellbeing Centres: A Necessary Evolution in Public Health

Discover why the shift from traditional leisure centres to Active Wellbeing Centres is crucial for public health, and how national policies and funding reforms can drive systemic change toward a healthier future

Blog

Dear Data Centre Market - We’re Measuring the Wrong Things

As the data centre industry expands rapidly, relying on old metrics like PUE and carbon emissions no longer cuts it. This article argues for a shift to more practical measures, focusing on how efficiently energy is used.

Blog

Decarbonising the UK: Strategies, Standards and Challenges for Building a Sustainable Future

From government initiatives to building standards and renewable energy systems, explore how decarbonisation is reshaping our approach to combating climate change.

Blog

The Building Safety Act: What It Means for Everyday Projects - And Why It Matters More Than Ever

The Building Safety Act is not just for high rise projects. Learn what it means for everyday schemes, why competency matters and how to meet your legal duties.

Blog

Decarbonisation in Commercial Real Estate: Maximising Impact with Minimal Investment

Discover how commercial real estate owners can navigate decarbonisation challenges with targeted, cost-effective strategies.

News

DB3 Group Elevates Leadership in Strategic Promotions

Charlotte Scaife has been appointed as Business Development Director, and Matt Ganley in the role of Engineering Director, as part of our succession planning, shaping the company for future growth.

Blog

MIPIM 2024

We are pleased to announce our participation in this year’s MIPIM. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Cannes, this four-day gathering serves as a dynamic platform, uniting professionals from the real estate community, investors, end users, and technology innovators.

Blog

140 Years of Excellence: The Art of Nurturing Relationships

As we reflect on our remarkable 140-year journey, one theme stands out: the art of nurturing relationships. At the heart of our success lies a commitment to delivering consistently excellent service and fostering genuine connections with our clients.

Blog

Celebrating 140 Years of Technological Evolution

At DB3, we take pride in our rich history of innovation, spanning an impressive 140 years. Our commitment to technology has been unwavering and we continue to push boundaries in various categories that define the cutting edge of the digital landscape.

Your Top 10 Building Safety Act Questions Answered

Understanding new legislation can be challenging. That’s why we’ve taken the initiative to simplify the process for you by compiling all the essential information about the Building Safety Act 2022.

Your Guide to the Building Safety Act 2022

Curious about the impacts of the Building Safety Act 2022 and its relevance to you? Explore our comprehensive guide to understand your legal obligations and how we can support.

Blog

Promoting Wellbeing: A 140-Year Legacy of Holistic Design, Community Engagement and Regeneration

At DB3, we take pride in our rich history of promoting wellbeing, a legacy that spans 140 years. From our inception, we’ve placed people at the heart of our designs, recognising the crucial role that the built environment plays in enhancing the quality of life.

Blog

140 Years: Leading the Way in Championing Sustainability

Explore our 140-year journey as custodians of the built environment, where sustainability takes centre stage. Amidst the urgent climate crisis, discover how our commitment to people and the planet is revolutionising spaces.

News

DB3 Named 'Architectural Practice of the Year' at Insider Yorkshire Property Industry Awards

We are delighted to announce that we have been named as the ‘Architectural Practice of the Year’ at the esteemed Insider Yorkshire Property Industry Awards 2023.

Are hospitals the next to close? The urgent call to address RAAC, structural problems and fire compliance

DB3 Group’s Senior Associate, Matt Jones, sheds light on the increasing challenges hospitals face with structural issues and fire compliance. Explore the issues surrounding materials like RAAC and wood wool roofs, historical construction practices, and innovative design solutions.

Blog

Celebrating 140 Years of Design Excellence

Since our inception, we have continually made noteworthy contributions to the realm of design, imprinting a lasting legacy through exceptional projects and pioneering innovations. Explore how our impact has shaped architecture over the last 140 years.

Blog

DB3 at UKREiiF 2023

Following the success of last year’s inaugural UKREiiF, the city of Leeds is once again set to welcome visitors from across the property and construction industry. Our team are looking forward to making the most of the week, and having the opportunity to meet contacts from across the country.

Thought Leadership

Collaborating for Success: Q&A with Michael French on the Importance of Communication in Project Delivery

In this Q&A session, DB3 Associate Michael French shares valuable insights into his strategies for overcoming obstacles and tailoring projects to individual client requirements.

Thought Leadership

London's architectural landscape: Embracing change and innovation in the construction industry with Julius Steinert

Looking towards the future, the construction industry is poised for significant changes in London, and Julius Steinert, our Director and Architect, shares his insights on the biggest trends shaping the industry.

Thought Leadership

Building Success through Relationships: Insights from DB3 Win Work Lead Charlotte Scaife

Charlotte leads DB3’s strategy for winning work through strategic partnerships and key client relationships across our UK studios. With over 20 years’ experience working in the property and construction industry, Charlotte’s connections span from developers, consultants, designers & contractors.

Thought Leadership

Mastering high-end retail design: Insights from Senior Associate, Rob Prescott

In this Q&A session with our Senior Associate Rob Prescott, we explored the critical role that architecture plays in creating successful shopping environments, especially in the realm of luxury retail.

Thought Leadership

The rise of modular construction: An expert Q&A with Lee Holmes

As the construction industry continues to rapidly evolve, there is growing recognition that modular construction is emerging as a leading method of building. By utilising this technique, new builds can be delivered in a more efficient manner while also minimising materials waste.

Thought Leadership

Exploring the future of energy & waste: An inspiring Q&A with director Tom Hill on circular economy, innovation, and local authority leadership

In this Q&A, Tom shares his unique insights and perspectives on the pivotal role of energy & waste in addressing the challenges of the future. He draws on his experience to discuss topics such as the circular economy and the critical role of local authorities in promoting sustainable practices.

Blog

MIPIM 2023

The highly anticipated MIPIM real estate event is set to return in 2023, offering a unique opportunity for professionals and stakeholders from across the globe to collaborate and drive efforts towards recovery and sustainability in the industry.

Thought Leadership

Unlocking the secrets of sustainable and people-orientated urban design with master planner Hemal Patel

In this insightful Q&A, Hemal Patel shares her valuable experiences and perspectives on the crucial role of master planning, sustainable design practices, and the impact of emerging technology on our approach to urban planning.

DB3 Team

DB3 2022 Values and Long Service Awards

Staff from DB3’s seven UK wide studios – Aberystwyth, Birmingham, Cardiff, Glasgow, Leeds, London and Manchester – came together at our HQ in Leeds to celebrate our achievements, our values and to thank the many colleagues who have reached key long-service milestones.

Thought Leadership

Q&A with David Hooley: Designing for the Future of Sports & Leisure - Embracing Accessibility, Inclusivity, and Sustainability

Blog

DB3 named 'Architect of the Year' at COMBA22

We are absolutely delighted to have been voted as the ‘Architect of the Year’ winner at the City of Manchester Business Awards 2022.

Blog

Celebrating World Photography 2022

To mark World Photography Day Ross Hamilton, co-founder of Formation 3D who photographs many of DB3’s projects, shares his thoughts.

News

Introducing our new division: DB3 Net Zero

We are delighted to announce the launch of DB3 Net Zero – a new division which helps the construction industry achieve the UK’s 2050 net zero targets.

Blog

Celebrating Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games

To mark the 2022 Commonwealth Games held in Birmingham, we decided to celebrate all things relating to DB3 Sports and Leisure by bringing together facts, videos, news items, blogs and polls that reflect the incredible work that our team do.

DB3 Team

Isabella achieves Forbes 30 Under 30

We are delighted to announced Isabella Webb’s place on the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 list for 2022!

DB3 Studio

DB3 Named Architects of the Year at COBBA22

Nassia, who heads up our DB3 Birmingham studio, was joined by our MD Nathan, Director Tom and Associate Director Charlotte, to take the stage and collect the award.

News

DB3 win architectural contract for North London's ERF

DB3 is proud to announce that we have been appointed by Acciona to provide architectural design and landscape architecture for a new £683m world class Energy Recovery Facility (ERF) for North London Waste Authority (NLWA).

Diary

UKREiiF 2022

DB3 and Formation 3D (F3D) have partnered with UKREiiF – the UK Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum) Event,, which is taking place in Leeds, West Yorkshire.

Diary

MIPIM 2022

2022 sees the return of MIPIM, the world’s leading real estate event. With global travel opening up, the conference promises to be jam packed with a full four-day programme of speeches, panels, awards and in-person networking events!

News

Formation 3D Launch

We are delighted to announce the launch of Formation 3D (F3D) – the new one stop shop for all drone, ground based technology and 3D services for clients UK wide.

DB3 Studio

DB3 Leeds Halloween Party 2021

There were some spooky going-ons at our DB3 Leeds studio this October.

Thought Leadership

COP26 - Climate Change from an Architect’s Perspective

Q&A with our DB3 Architect and Passivhaus Certified Designer Lydia H on our actions about climate change.

DB3 Team

DB3 announce 2021 Values Awards Winners

DB3 hosted their values awards on World Values Day and here are the winners.

News

DB3 Leeds studio hosts RIBA Awards

Our DB3 Leeds studio had the honour of being the chosen venue for the RIBA Yorkshire 2021 Celebration & Social in October, which was attended by 70 guests including RIBA Award winners.

DB3 Studio

DB3 Move to Manchester

Our Building Services Engineering and Architects team re-located to a new studio in central Manchester.

Blog

Q&A with DB3 Sports & Leisure team - Part 2: The Future & Trends

In Part 2 of our Q&A with our Sports and Leisure team share their insight into trends, challenges and ambitions but also their vision as Architects and Engineers for this wellbeing sector.

DB3 Team

World Photography Day 2021: Spotlight on Architecture Photography

To mark World Photography Day, which is on the 19th August, we sat down with Ross Hamilton – our in-house photographer and co-founder of Formation 3D – to get some insights into architectural photography, not just from the ground but from the sky!

DB3 Team

Q&A with DB3 Sports & Leisure team - Part 1: The Past & the Present

As part of our DB3 Summer of Sport, where we are putting a spotlight on our expertise in this sector, we did a Q&A with our 12 member strong Sports & Leisure team of architects, designers and engineers.

Thought Leadership

Thoughts on the Inpatient Environment

In this thought leadership piece, Jamie shares how his extended hospital stay experience has shaped his vision as to how architects can design a better healing experience.

Blog

Tour de DB3’s Recent Cycling Projects

With Tour de France 2021 commencing, we had a chat with our Sports and Leisure team about the current trends in cycling & DB3’s latest cycling projects.

Blog

What National Walking Month means to me

As a pioneer of netwalking, it seemed appropriate to ask our Associate Director for Business Development – Charlotte Scaife – to share her thoughts on National Walking Month in May, which was a celebration of walking, championed by Living Streets charity.

Thought Leadership

How can architects incorporate cultural diversity in their design?

Our Managing Director, Nathan McNamara reflections on World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development 2021 and how architects can make a positive impact.

DB3 Team

Introducing Lee Holmes - our New Associate

Joining our DB3 Leeds studio is our new Associate Lee Holmes – to get to know him better, we had a great Q&A conversation and here is what we found out about him.

DB3 Studio

Bidding farewell to Monk Fryston Coach House

With the move of DB3 Architecture Headquarters to the heart of Leeds City Centre imminent, we had a chat with our Chairman Alistair Hamilton, who joined the firm in 1989 when we moved to Monk Fryston and reflected on past 31 year at the Coach House.

Thought Leadership

Education and the Pandemic Ripple

Our Associate Rob Prescott asks how the Covid-19 pandemic has impacted the education sector and explores what industry can do to help.

News

DB3 join the Force of Good with Heart of the City

Following a comprehensive assessment, DB3 Architecture is delighted to accept a place in the newcomer programme run by the charity Heart of the City. Their responsible business programme seeks to guide SMEs in making an even more positive impact on people, places and the planet.

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DB3 Healthcare

Healing Spaces in the World of Healthcare: Our work in the healthcare sector encompasses the design and management of buildings for acute and specialist care to primary care and mental health.

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DB3 Education

Inspirational Spaces for the World of Education: From Early Year’s provision, through Primary, Secondary, SEND, Further and Higher Education, DB3 has designed and implemented schemes that seek to raise educational standards.

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DB3 Data Centres

We combine engineering, architecture, and digital technologies to transform data centre design. Our expertise lies in delivering value-driven solutions, optimising facilities for the rapid and efficient deployment of servers.

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DB3 Retail

Creating Engaging Spaces for the World of Retail: Our retail architects deliver a total design service solution from single, bespoke shops to out-of-town retail parks and supermarket rollout programmes.

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Project: adidas LDN

DB3 Group

We are an award winning practice for sustainable Architecture and Design, founded in 1883 and with seven studios across the UK.

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DB3 Industrial & Manufacturing

Productive Spaces for the Industrial World: our knowledge is gained through experience successfully designing and delivering projects for globally renowned brands.

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DB3 Energy & Waste

Our team has more than 30 years of combined experience on over 40 energy and waste facilities throughout the UK. We have developed strong relationships with, and are trusted by many UK waste operators, technology providers and civils contractors as well as other consultants in this sector.

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DB3 Sports & Leisure

Wellbeing Spaces for your Health and Fitness: We’ve completed over 200 wet and dry leisure centres in the past 35 years and delivered everything from ice rinks, hotel spas to arenas and stadia.

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Project: Helensburgh Leisure Centre

DB3 Residential

Personal Spaces in the World you Live in: We are well experienced in the development of all types of schemes, from single dwellings to high volume multi-unit developments.

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DB3 Commercial

Flexible Spaces for the World of Work: DB3 provide specification offices, site masterplanning and strategic planning for world group headquarters, business parks and starter units.

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DB3 Commercial Vision

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DB3 Magazine

DB3 Magazine

Stop Waiting for Perfect: Meanwhile Use is a Local Authority Superpower

Stop Waiting for Perfect: Meanwhile Use is a Local Authority Superpower

Decarbonising the UK: Strategies, Standards and Challenges for Building a Sustainable Future

Decarbonising the UK: Strategies, Standards and Challenges for Building a Sustainable Future

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