BDP, a UK-based design practice, has announced the appointment of Max Martin as the new head of its Birmingham studio, succeeding Dan Smyth, who will retire this summer following a distinguished career in architecture and urban regeneration.
The leadership transition comes at a significant moment for Birmingham as the city embarks on a period of substantial investment and transformation.
Max Martin, an experienced architect focused on large and complex projects, joined BDP in 2008.
Over the past 16 years, Martin has specialised in integrating imaginative design with technical excellence, with a particular emphasis on sustainability and zero-defect delivery.
The leadership transition comes at a significant moment for Birmingham as the city embarks on a period of substantial investment and transformation
Martin’s project portfolio spans several key sectors, notably science and technology, healthcare, and transport, delivering environments that enhance the well-being of communities and support the evolving needs of public services.
Martin is currently overseeing a series of major developments, including a new district general hospital in King’s Lynn, a pharmaceutical facility in West Sussex, and the HS2 Headhouses project in Birmingham.
The new studio lead has previously played a pivotal role in delivering high-profile healthcare projects such as Southmead Hospital in Bristol, the expansion of Bispebjerg Hospital in Copenhagen, and Birmingham Children’s Hospital’s Waterfall House, a globally recognised centre for rare disease treatment.
Further notable contributions include the new Emergency Department at Walsall Manor Hospital, the outpatient department at Haywood Hospital, and the iMRI facility at Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
Martin is currently overseeing a series of major developments, including a new district general hospital in King’s Lynn
Martin also led the redesign of the hospital’s main entrance and is currently involved in the ongoing redevelopment of Leicester Hospitals. During the Covid-19 pandemic, he formed part of the leadership team that successfully delivered the NHS Nightingale Hospital at the NEC in Birmingham within record timescales.
His appointment coincides with Birmingham’s Future City: Central Birmingham Framework 2040, an ambitious blueprint to create a greener, healthier, and better-connected city.
As studio head, Martin will lead BDP’s Birmingham-based team in delivering projects that support the region’s economic growth and social progression.
Reflecting on his new role, Martin said: “As the Midlands enters a golden decade of opportunity, with major projects such as Smithfield, Arden Cross and HS2, we remain committed to delivering innovative, sustainable, and community-focused design solutions that leave a positive legacy on the region.
As studio head, Martin will lead BDP’s Birmingham-based team
“I look forward to working with local authority and business leaders in the region to maximise the opportunity for good growth, social progression and sustainable outcomes across the built environment. I am positive that together, we can play a vital role in shaping the next chapter of the region’s architectural and urban future.”
Dan Smyth, his predecessor, has been a longstanding advocate for Birmingham’s regeneration. Over his career, Smyth was instrumental in a variety of transformative developments across healthcare, education, residential, commercial, and conservation sectors.
Notably, he played a leading role in delivering the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Edgbaston. His contribution to the city’s architectural landscape leaves a lasting legacy as Birmingham continues to grow and evolve.
BDP, a global multidisciplinary design practice headquartered in Manchester, operates a network of studios across the UK, Ireland, and internationally.
Max Martin, an experienced architect focused on large and complex projects, joined BDP in 2008
From its Birmingham base, the practice remains at the forefront of high-profile projects across the Midlands.
Recent highlights include the award-winning College of Arts and Society at Coventry University and the redevelopment of the historic BBC Tea Factory in Digbeth, part of the city’s broader creative and cultural regeneration.
With Martin’s appointment, BDP is well-positioned to build upon its strong regional presence, continuing to shape healthcare and community infrastructure projects that reflect the future needs of patients, clinical teams, and wider society.
Top image: Max Martin