Global design practice BDP has appointed architecture director Akshay Khera as the new head of its Bristol studio.
Akshay, pictured, is passionate about improving the built environment in Bristol, the South West and Wales and has more than a decade of experience designing buildings and spaces in the region. 
He is committed to delivering sustainable spaces that create a sense of community and wellbeing designed with end users in mind.
Akshay’s appointment supports the continued growth of BDP in the region as a widely respected, socially progressive practice with an embedded multidisciplinary approach across healthcare, housing, education, and workplace sectors.
Akshay joined BDP’s Bristol studio 20 years ago and six years later went on to lead its bases in Delhi and Abu Dhabi, where his international portfolio included notable projects such as the masterplan for the Indian Institute of Technology and the University of Birmingham’s Dubai Incubator campus.
He returned to Bristol in 2019, bringing with him a proven expertise in collaborative communication and design to lead a number of projects. 
These include the University of Bristol’s Dental School, pictured, projects for UWE Bristol and the International HQ for the European Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasts in Reading.
Akshay said: “The opportunity for growth in the region in all sectors remains strong and as a multidisciplinary consultancy, we are perfectly placed to help our local clients understand their investment and property portfolio strategies. 
“By delivering designs that are contextual, sustainable, and people-centred we aim to deliver stimulating spaces in schools and universities, stress-relieving environments in healthcare facilities, a strong sense of community in housing developments and workplaces that foster collaboration and wellbeing.
“With the depth of talent in our Bristol studio across sectors and professions, we are in a fantastic position to enhance our role in the region, delivering quality design projects that are inspirational, challenge the norm and are reflective of our progressive and diverse studio.”
BDP is currently working on a number of projects across the South West, including the innovative Gap House project in Bristol – which is investigating the potential for modern methods of construction in urban housing – a design that won the Brighter Places/Housing Festival competition to build a 100% affordable housing development at Midland Road in Old Market, and a number of schools for the Department for Education.
It is also working on a series of healthcare projects, including the new elective care centre at Bristol’s Southmead Hospital, where it designed the multi-award winning 800-bed Brunel Building. pictured.
