SB Architects has appointed Richard Collings as Vice President following its expansion to London. In his new role, Collings will forge new client relationships, lead talent acquisition efforts and oversee a range of project work, focusing on growing the firm’s hospitality portfolio in the Mediterranean, Middle East and Africa.

Collings brings over two decades of experience in the architectural profession, including mixed-use projects and master planning. Across his portfolio – which includes large-scale planning schemes in Egypt, Viacom International Media Networks HQ in London, renovation work for The Landmark in Cyprus, and hospitality projects in Dubai and Turkey – Collings’ work has been driven by a client-oriented approach and commitment to excellent service, along with a passion for sustainability and focus on team development.

“I was drawn to SB Architects’ entrepreneurial atmosphere and collaborative culture, and will instil that same ethos in the London office as we continue to grow,” he explains. “The practice structures itself and runs its projects with an equitable working environment that nurtures teamwork and communication. A place where ideas are supported, individual passions are celebrated, and work/life balance is a reality, not just a goal, SB Architects is evolving in the right direction, and I am honoured to join the team as Vice President.”

Before joining the firm, Collings spent much of his career working with global design firm WATG, where he progressed from Associate to Associate Vice President and advanced the growth of an Urban Architecture studio group as a Partner in their London office, helping to lead the company’s move into large-scale urban projects. Prior to WATG, he was a designer at architecture practice Jacobs Webber in the British capital.

Mark Sopp, Senior Vice President and Principal at SB Architects, comments: “Richard’s leadership skills and dedication to a collaborative design approach with clients will strengthen our path forward, and we look forward to delivering more inspiring and impactful properties alongside him. We are excited to see the foundation that he will set for the London office, which will be fully integrated into our vision as a firm.”