Working with Moda Living and Aviva Capital Partners, we were appointed as Executive Architects on Stone Yard to help deliver a high-quality, purpose-built Build to Rent development that responds to the needs of modern city living. Phase 1 forms a significant part of the wider masterplan, delivering 605 new homes across four buildings, ranging from 6 to 30 storeys, alongside amenities, public realm, and commercial space.

The challenge was clear: to translate an ambitious, design-led vision into a buildable, safe, and sustainable scheme—while navigating evolving regulations and maintaining the clarity of the original concept.

Following planning approval, we worked closely with Moda Living, the wider consultant team, and Birmingham City Council to refine the scheme for delivery. Our role focused on aligning design intent with the practical realities of construction, operation, and long-term performance.

Responding to Building Safety Act requirements, we integrated secondary staircases and evacuation lifts, optimised apartment layouts, and refined building cores—carefully balancing compliance with quality and spatial efficiency. Throughout, we focused on clarity, consistency, and buildability, ensuring the scheme remained elegant, legible, and robust.

Our deep understanding of the Build to Rent model—developed through long-standing collaboration with Moda Living—helped shape homes and amenities around daily life. Shared spaces including a 24-hour concierge, co-working areas, gym, media lounge, private dining rooms, and landscaped courtyards are designed to encourage connection, wellbeing, and a strong sense of community. Ground-floor commercial units activate the streets, reinforcing Stone Yard’s role as part of Digbeth, not apart from it.

Stone Yard Phase 1 will deliver more than new homes—it will create a connected, sustainable neighbourhood that supports how people live, work, and move through the city.

The development enhances urban connectivity through integration with the new tram line, while acoustic treatments, wind mitigation strategies, and generous green spaces improve comfort, biodiversity, and everyday wellbeing. A smart Building Management System helps optimise energy use, while standardised layouts support efficient construction and long-term operation.

As Stone Yard takes shape on site, it stands as a clear expression of our collaborative, commercially responsive approach, progressively turning complex urban ambition into places designed for people, now and into the future.