David Grant

David joined Orms in 2023 after a year at Architecture Julien Denis, where he worked on adaptive reuse and redevelopment projects, including listed buildings primarily in the residential sector. He holds two First Class degrees—a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Architecture from The University of Liverpool, where his thesis -'Industrial Domesticity' - explored the relationship between living and working, receiving several accolades, including a RIBA Silver Medal nomination and the Liverpool Architectural Society's Best MArch5 project award. David's architectural model was exhibited in the Tropical Modernism exhibition at the V&A, London.

What does ultrapractical mean to you? To me, being ultrapractical means designing beyond trends—creating adaptable, functional spaces that respect a building’s historical and social context. Ultrapractical design is proactive, thoughtful, and always forward-looking.

My experience in retrofit and heritage projects, including Mercury, a major commercial redevelopment, has shaped a balanced approach to preservation and innovation. I also contributed to the redesign of the Orms website, producing content and curating visual narratives, and serve on the wellbeing team, advocating for inclusive, people-focused design and workplace culture. Outside the studio, I enjoy urban sketching and photography—creative outlets that sharpen my observational skills and enhance my understanding of how people interact with the built environment.