Work Archive - PHd design

DHA Architects

DHA Architects is a distinguished and forward-thinking architectural practice based in Birmingham, specialising in the design and delivery of high-quality built environments across residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments. With a strong emphasis on creativity, technical precision, and contextual sensitivity, the practice crafts spaces that are not only visually striking but also highly functional and enduring.

DELIVERABLES

BRANDING
PRINT DESIGN
DIGITAL

PHd has worked in close partnership with DHA Architects for almost 20 years, originally creating their first logo and establishing the foundation of their brand identity, before being re-engaged in 2026 to lead a full modern rebrand that refined and refreshed their visual presence for a new era while respecting the legacy of the original design.

This rebrand was approached as an evolution rather than a revolution, carefully refining and strengthening the existing visual language instead of replacing it outright. By respecting the original identity and its established recognition, PHd ensured continuity while subtly modernising key elements to better reflect DHA Architects’ current direction and ambitions. Like a skilled architect working within the constraints of a cherished structure, the goal was to enhance rather than erase—adding clarity, balance, and contemporary detail so the brand now feels both familiar and freshly resolved, standing stronger within its own design framework.

The refreshed identity has now been fully adopted across DHA Architects, forming the foundation of a cohesive and unified brand identity following the brand identity refresh, with consistent application across site hoarding and external signage, bid and proposal documents, corporate stationery (including letterheads, business cards, and templates), presentation decks and client pitch materials, project case study templates, email signatures, internal documentation, and social media and marketing assets, all working together to strengthen recognition, professionalism, and clarity while ensuring the practice presents a seamless and confident visual presence both internally and externally.

Quote from the customer

Working with PHd on our brand identity refresh has been a seamless experience, built on nearly 20 years of history. They’ve evolved our identity with real care, proving that less is more. The result feels refined, modern, and unmistakably us.

MANSOOR NAZIR | DIRECTOR

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This refreshed identity marks not an ending, but a continuation of a long-standing partnership between PHd and DHA Architects. Built on nearly two decades of shared understanding, it provides a strong and adaptable foundation for the future—ensuring the practice can move forward with clarity, confidence, and consistency across every expression of its work.

Secure repeat business.
Turn wins into long-term value.

HILTON FOODS GROUP

Hilton Foods Group wanted to maintain deep relationships with major clients through ongoing creative support.

Design doesn’t stop once a deal is won… it nurtures relationships so clients stick with you.

Repeat business isn’t automatic… it’s earned through experiences, clarity and trust. Blend in and clients quietly move on.

If clients don’t come back, we’ll keep you front of mind.

The aim:

Keep major client relationships strong beyond contracts.

The stuff:

Exhibition panels, explainer graphics, immersive installs and concepts.

The results:

Retention strengthened and long-term assignments continued.

To win high-stakes, long-term contracts with major clients such as Sainsbury’s, M&S, and McDonald’s, Hilton Foods relied on meticulously crafted, white paper–style documents as the cornerstone of each bid. These documents were more than just informative—they served as persuasive showcases of Hilton Foods’ full capabilities, from operational excellence and supply-chain integrity to innovation, sustainability, and quality assurance. By consolidating complex operational data, market insights, and strategic differentiators into a single, compelling narrative, each white paper clearly demonstrated Hilton Foods’ unique value proposition and aligned directly with the priorities of prospective clients, ultimately becoming the decisive instrument in securing new business.

Having worked with Hilton Foods as a trusted creative partner over time, our role has naturally evolved beyond tender support. We are now regularly invited to contribute to conceptual projects, helping potential clients envision new products and innovations before they even reach the production line. By translating market trends, consumer insights, and Hilton Foods’ operational expertise into imaginative concepts and visual narratives, we help clients see the possibilities, inspiring confidence and sparking ideas that turn into real, market-ready products. This deeper, collaborative engagement positions Hilton Foods not just as a supplier, but as a strategic partner in innovation.

Quote from the customer

“PHd have been brilliant at helping us explain what we do in a way that actually makes sense to our clients. They take all the complexity of our operations and turn it into something clear and engaging, which has made a real difference in how people see what we’re capable of.”

GRACE SHEARER | MARKETING MANAGER

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One of the largest projects for Hilton Foods involved a complete redesign of their headquarters, creating an immersive environment that highlighted the company’s personality, values, and operational processes. Production workflows, supply-chain insights, sustainability initiatives, and innovation milestones were all incorporated into the design, allowing visiting clients to gain a clear understanding of Hilton’s capabilities. The transformation was delivered within two weeks, resulting in a space that effectively communicates Hilton Foods’ expertise and approach in a tangible, engaging way.

Win more tenders.
Get chosen faster.

PARETO

Pareto needed bids that communicated value, empathy and clarity… not just statistics.

Winning business often comes down to how quickly and clearly you show you’re the smartest, safest choice… and that’s where PHd shines.

Most tenders are boring, simply ‘ticking the boxes’… The ones that win emotionally and visually connect first. Blend in and you lose to the lowest bidder.

If your tenders blend in and lose, we can help you win.

The aim:

Win more pitches and large contracts.

The stuff:

Creative, engaging presentations built around story, structure and clarity.

The results:

Three major contract wins in one year.

We worked closely with Pareto FM to formulate a cohesive suite of presentations that clearly and confidently communicated how the business operates and the value it delivers. By structuring complex service models into clear narratives and visually consistent decks, we helped Pareto articulate what they do, how they do it, and why it matters to clients. The result was a set of presentations that demystified Pareto’s approach, aligned internal teams, and provided a persuasive, professional tool for engaging stakeholders and winning new work.

Building on this foundation, we translated Pareto FM’s operational clarity into a compelling, client-facing story. Each presentation was designed to speak directly to the needs of decision-makers, balancing strategic insight with practical detail, and reinforcing confidence at every stage of the bid process. Through clear messaging, strong visual hierarchy, and a consistent tone of voice, we ensured Pareto’s capabilities were not only understood but remembered — positioning them as a credible, well-organised, and dependable partner in highly competitive procurement environments.

Quote from the customer

“Working with PHd was transformative for us. They took the complexity of our operations and turned it into clear, compelling presentations and white papers that truly reflected the value we bring. Thanks to their expertise, we were able to communicate more effectively with clients and, as a result, won three major contracts that have significantly advanced our business. Their support has been instrumental in elevating how Pareto FM is perceived in the market.”

ELIZABETH LYONS | STRATEGIC RELATIONSHIP DIRECTOR

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Sell your business.
Maximise the exit value.

EXTRUDASEAL

Extrudaseal needed to tidy up brand, files and IP so they could sell faster and for more.

A clean, distinctive brand and a tidy IP/ design suite boosts perceived value and accelerates deals… that’s why PHd’s work matters when selling a business.

A business built with care deserves a payoff that reflects it… and good design helps unlock that. Get it wrong and you leave money on the table.

If you’re planning an exit and worried about valuation, talk to us early.

The aim:

Prepare business for sale and maximise valuation.

The stuff:

Collated IP rights, organised design assets, completed unfinished marketing projects.

The results:

Sale achieved faster and at a higher price. If you’re planning an exit.

Our challenge was to create a confident, modern brand and supporting materials that reflect the quality, reliability, and scale of Extrudaseal’s capabilities, while presenting the business as professional, established, and forward-looking. By clarifying their offer, strengthening their visual identity, and communicating their strengths with authority and clarity, the new brand positions Extrudaseal to win larger contracts, build trust with new clients, and ultimately become a more attractive and compelling proposition for future acquisition.

To achieve this, we crafted a fully integrated suite of solutions: a bold new brand, a modern, user-friendly website, and a complete set of marketing materials — all designed to work seamlessly together, pun intended. Each component was carefully considered to reflect Extrudaseal’s precision, reliability, and professionalism, ensuring that every interaction, from digital presence to printed collateral, reinforces the company’s expertise and ambition. The result is a cohesive identity that not only looks exceptional but also strengthens the company’s position in the market and supports its growth and long-term value.

The rebrand had an immediate and striking impact. Sales inquiries increased as clients responded to the clearer, more confident presentation of Extrudaseal’s expertise, while the company’s presence at trade shows became unmistakably stronger. With a modern, professional brand and cohesive marketing materials, Extrudaseal stood out from competitors, drawing attention, inspiring trust, and leaving a lasting impression on prospective customers. The combination of improved visibility, credibility, and polished presentation transformed not just how the company was perceived, but how it performed in the market.

Quote from the customer

“PHd completely transformed how Extrudaseal presented itself. From the brand and website to the marketing materials, everything came together seamlessly, giving the company a polished, professional presence. Their work played a huge role in strengthening the business and ultimately made it an attractive proposition for acquisition by COBA Plastics Group. I’m very proud of what we achieved with them.

CHRIS BYERS | FOUNDER & FORMER MANAGING DIRECTOR

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The ultimate goal of the transformation was achieved when Extrudaseal was acquired by COBA Plastics Group, taking the company to new heights while preserving its deep-rooted commitment to British manufacturing. The rebrand, new website, and cohesive marketing strategy had not only elevated the company’s market presence and boosted sales but also positioned it as a highly attractive acquisition. Today, Extrudaseal continues to thrive under COBA’s stewardship, combining enhanced resources and reach with the same dedication to quality, precision, and British engineering excellence that has defined its legacy.

Explain complicated stuff.
Make it easier to buy.

ARM REEDBEDS

ARM needed to turn complex natural water treatment into something customers instantly “get.”

Clear communication helps people understand and engage… that’s why we create bespoke infographics, illustrations and visual language that turns complexity into clarity.

Most people won’t buy what they don’t understand… simple visuals help your value land fast. Get it wrong, and your expertise is overlooked.

If customers don’t quickly “get” what you do, we should talk.

The aim:

Educate prospects on how solutions work and why they’re legally needed.

The stuff:

Infographics, illustrations, animations and explainer docs.

The results:

Clients understood faster; conversations focused on value, not explanation.

ARM Reedbeds specialises in highly technical and environmentally sensitive solutions, tackling projects that are often complex, nuanced, and difficult for clients to fully grasp at first glance. Their expertise spans intricate ecological engineering, water management, and habitat restoration—work that, while vital, can be challenging to communicate effectively. We were brought in to help translate this complexity into clarity. Through a comprehensive rebrand, we aimed to make ARM Reedbeds’ services more understandable, accessible, and compelling for clients, highlighting their technical mastery while presenting it in a clear, confident, and visually engaging way.

The rebrand of ARM Reedbeds focused on clarity, confidence, and approachability. We refined the visual identity to better reflect the company’s expertise in natural wastewater treatment while removing unnecessary complexity. A considered colour palette, cleaner typography, and a more structured tone of voice were introduced to create a brand that feels professional yet accessible, positioning ARM Reedbeds as both an authority in the field and a trusted guide for clients navigating an often technical subject.

The bespoke iconography system and website design were developed hand in hand to create a cohesive and intuitive user experience. Custom icons are used throughout the site to visually support content, guiding users through ARM Reedbeds’ services, processes, and benefits with clarity and consistency. Combined with a carefully structured layout, clear navigation, and strong visual hierarchy, these elements work together to simplify complex information and lead visitors naturally through the site. The result is a website where design and function are fully aligned, making it easy for users to understand what ARM Reedbeds does, how its systems work, and why its approach to natural wastewater treatment is so effective.

Quote from the customer

From the very beginning, they really took the time to listen and understand what we do and why it can be difficult to explain. They managed to take something that’s quite technical and turn it into clear, simple information that anyone can understand. The new website and visuals feel approachable, professional, and genuinely represent us as a business. We’re extremely happy with the end result and have had great feedback from clients who now ‘get it’ straight away.

CLODAGH MURPHY | RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

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We redesigned an entire suite of infographics to explain ARM Reedbeds’ various treatment processes in a clear, engaging, and consistent manner. Complex systems were distilled into step-by-step visual narratives, combining iconography, diagrams, and plain-language explanations. These infographics play a crucial role in demystifying wastewater treatment, enabling users to grasp intricate processes quickly and with confidence.

Together, the rebrand, iconography, website, and infographics create a unified and effective communication platform for ARM Reedbeds. By translating technical expertise into clarity and understanding, the new brand presence empowers ARM Reedbeds to reach a wider audience, strengthen trust, and clearly demonstrate the value of their sustainable treatment solutions — ensuring their work is understood, appreciated, and easily accessible to all.

Makes*itshine

Makesitshine is a dynamic manufacturer specialising in high-concentrate chemical treatments and products, primarily designed for trade professionals. From car cleaning and personal care to hard surface cleaning and odour neutralisation, the company delivers powerful, effective solutions that meet the demanding standards of businesses and skilled users. With a commitment to innovation, performance, and safety, Makesitshine ensures every product provides maximum results, helping tradespeople and customers alike achieve surfaces, spaces, and vehicles that look and feel their very best.

DELIVERABLES

BRANDING
PRINT DESIGN
WEB DESIGN

PHd began by helping Makesitshine develop the brand name, creating something bold and memorable that could stand out in a competitive market. The goal was to capture the company’s disruptive, confident approach while remaining versatile — a name that could be read in two ways: the professional “Makes It Shine” and the slightly ruder, attention-grabbing “Makes S*it Shine.” This clever duality gives the brand personality, makes it instantly recognisable, and perfectly reflects its fun yet high-performance identity.

After establishing the name, PHd helped Makesitshine bring the brand to life visually, creating a consistent and professional look across the entire product range. We developed a cohesive visual identity that encompassed colour schemes, typography, and packaging layouts, ensuring every product felt like part of the same family while remaining distinct and easy to recognise.

Icons, labels, and visual hierarchies were carefully applied to guide customers quickly to the right product, making the range intuitive to navigate for trade professionals and end users alike. By combining clarity with a bold, modern aesthetic, we gave Makesitshine a strong, polished, and approachable presence that perfectly reflected its high-performance, disruptive personality, while providing a flexible framework that could grow seamlessly as new products were added.

Quote from the customer

After working with PHd before, I knew they were the right team for the job. From naming to branding to packaging, they’ve ticked every box. They really got what we were trying to do, and the end result looks amazing — professional, organised, and ready to make a real impact.

JON PITCHFORK | DIRECTOR

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Whether you need your patio sparkling, stubborn road tar removed from your car, or even grime lifted from your workshop surfaces, Makesitshine is the one for the job. From the clever dual-purpose name to the bold, organised visual identity and flexible packaging system, everything came together seamlessly. The result is a brand that looks professional, feels approachable, and delivers high-performance solutions every time — proving that when it comes to cleaning and care, Makesitshine really lives up to its name.

Niyazis Foods

Niyazis Foods is a family-run business and a relative newcomer to the West Midlands food wholesale market. Despite this, the company is already making a notable impact, building strong relationships through its commitment to quality, reliability, and responsive service. With a carefully curated range of food products and essentials sourced from trusted suppliers, Niyazis Foods is rapidly establishing itself as a valued partner for retailers and caterers, bringing fresh momentum to the region’s wholesale sector.

DELIVERABLES

BRANDING
PRINT DESIGN
INFOGRAPHICS

With growth came reflection, and Niyazis Foods recognised the need to strengthen its branding and bring greater structure to how its products were communicated to customers. Acknowledging the importance of clarity, consistency, and professional presentation, the business brought PHd on board to guide this process.

Through this partnership, Niyazis Foods began refining its brand presence and organising its product ranges more effectively, ensuring customers could clearly understand the offering, navigate it with ease, and recognise the value behind it — setting a stronger foundation for future growth and giving their brand a little extra “sizzle.”

Niyazis Foods took a major step in making its offering more approachable by structuring its product range into six distinct categories. Each category was assigned its own unique icon, designed to be instantly recognisable and applied consistently across all aspects of the brand, from marketing materials to digital platforms. This visual system not only makes it easier for customers to navigate the range, but also strengthens brand cohesion, giving Niyazis Foods a clear, organised, and professional presence in every touchpoint.

Quote from the customer

After seeing the work PHd had done for other food businesses, we knew they were the right choice for Niyazis Foods. They really understood our vision and guided us through the process with ease. The results speak for themselves — our brand looks stronger, more organised, and just better overall. We couldn’t be happier with how it all turned out.

Tashin Niyazis | Director

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With these improvements, Niyazis Foods has emerged as a much stronger, more confident brand, presenting its products with clarity, consistency, and style. The company now not only functions more efficiently but also looks the part, making a lasting impression on customers and partners alike — proving that when it comes to their brand, they’re really “serving it up hot.”

Children of Courage Awards.

The Children of Courage Awards Birmingham, established by SJP, recognises and celebrates the remarkable bravery and achievements of young people across the city. The awards shine a light on resilience, determination, and the extraordinary impact children can have in their communities, creating a platform that honours their stories and inspires others.

DELIVERABLES

BRANDING
PRINT DESIGN
WEB DESIGN

Our role was to craft a visual identity that reflected this spirit of courage and optimism. From developing a distinctive logo to designing supporting brand elements, we sought to create a cohesive and uplifting brand that could convey the awards’ values, resonate with families and supporters, and ensure a memorable presence for this important celebration.

Our process began by exploring the spirit of the children being celebrated. We wanted the brand to reflect courage, joy, and resilience, while feeling special for Birmingham’s first awards. Through sketches, moodboards, and design experiments, we developed a visual identity that conveyed warmth, optimism, and pride, creating an emotional connection with children, families, and the community.

We extended the brand across all marketing for the awards night, designing signage, banners, presentation slides, table talkers, and brochures. Each piece was crafted to feel cohesive and celebratory, ensuring the brand came to life in the room and guided guests through the evening with clarity, warmth, and a sense of occasion.

Quote from the customer

PHd were absolutely brilliant to work with on the very first Children of Courage Awards in Birmingham. They completely understood the heart of the
event and created branding and materials that felt both uplifting and professional. Everything looked fantastic on the night, and the feedback from guests was amazing.
We couldn’t have asked for a better creative partner.

Greg Palethorpe | Organiser

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The Children of Courage Awards Birmingham was brought to life through a brand that celebrated bravery, joy, and community. From the visual identity to every touchpoint on the night, the design helped create a memorable, uplifting experience for all involved—making the inaugural event truly special and setting a high standard for future editions.

Solely Cremation.

Solely Cremation is a family-focused service offering simple and dignified cremations for those who want a straightforward alternative to traditional funerals. Based in Lichfield, their team provides compassionate support at a difficult time, helping families arrange everything with ease, clarity, and respect. Their approach is about keeping things uncomplicated and affordable, while still ensuring every detail is handled with care.

DELIVERABLES

BRANDING
PRINT DESIGN
WEB DESIGN

When Solely Cremation approached us, they already had an established reputation—especially through their sister companies—and wanted to evolve their brand rather than reinvent it. They selected us based on our track record of delivering trust-worthy, polished branding and design services, knowing that we understood both the sensitivities of the sector and the importance of conveying dignity, clarity, and compassion. The goal was to refine what they already had: improve messaging, visual identity, and user experience, without losing the comforting familiarity customers had come to depend on.

We started by auditing their existing brand assets: logo, typography, iconography, colour palette, tone of voice, and customer touchpoints. From there, we created a series of refined branding guidelines, introducing more simplified iconography to reduce visual clutter and unify all materials. We carried that through to marketing collateral — printed and digital — ensuring consistency, readability, and a sense of calm in every piece. Each icon was built to be instantly recognisable and to carry meaning without over-complication, guiding users’ eyes and supporting emotional ease rather than overwhelming them.

Quote from the customer

PHd really understood the delicate nature of our work at Solely Cremation. They approached our rebrand with care, empathy, and professionalism, creating a brand that feels respectful,
approachable, and modern. Working with them was effortless, and the result has made a real difference in how our clients connect with us.

Sophie Jukes | Director

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As part of Solely Cremation’s brand evolution, we redesigned their website to create a more simple and compassionate user experience. By streamlining the structure and navigation, we made key information easier to access, reducing barriers for people seeking guidance during difficult times. The visual elements were refined, with clear and empathetic messaging, and layouts polished for seamless use across desktop, tablet, and mobile. Alongside this, we introduced consistent marketing materials and simplified iconography to unify their brand presence. The result is a modern, cohesive identity that retains the warmth and dignity their clients expect, while communicating professionalism and trust, making it easier for families to connect with and feel supported by Solely Cremation when it matters most.

Build trust & loyalty.
Keep customers coming back.

MAGUIRE JACKSON

Maguire Jackson needed a refresh without losing heritage so relationships stayed strong and grew.

PHd designs brands that don’t just look credible—they feel trustworthy and consistent, so customers choose and stick with you.

Trust makes everything else easier… clients come back, refer you, and defend your value. Get it wrong and clients start questioning your reliability.

If clients hesitate or drift away, let’s rebuild confidence.

The aim:

Refresh a long-standing, recognised brand without losing its soul.

The stuff:

Brand evolution, interiors/signage, stationery, website and more.

The results:

Enquiries up, engagement up, morale up and positive client feedback online.

We have worked with Maguire Jackson for over 20 years, guiding their brand through key stages of growth and transformation. A decade had passed since their identity was last revisited, and with Birmingham’s property landscape evolving rapidly, it was clear the time had come for a refresh. Their established reputation for excellence remained strong, but the visual language no longer captured the modernity and distinction that sets them apart. This project called for a considered evolution—one that would respect the heritage of the brand while introducing a sharper, more contemporary presence.

As part of the brand refresh, we completely redesigned Maguire Jackson’s offices with a focus on bold visual presence and lasting impact. Striking wall graphics, refined signage, and carefully considered display elements were introduced to ensure the space reflects their premium positioning and prominence in Birmingham. Every detail was crafted to capture attention, convey professionalism, and reinforce the brand’s authority in the market. The result is an office environment that not only looks exceptional but also communicates confidence and distinction to every visitor, keeping Maguire Jackson at the forefront of the city’s property scene.

Quote from the customer

We’ve been working with PHd for over 30 years, so we knew we could trust them completely. They approached our rebrand with the same care and insight
that have made them our go-to partner for decades—and then exceeded every expectation. The new brand feels fresh, confident, and perfectly aligned with who we are,
while still honouring the reputation we’ve built. It’s been a truly seamless and rewarding process.

Philip Jackson | Managing Director

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The rebrand for Maguire Jackson successfully captured the essence of their position as Birmingham’s premier estate agent—reinforcing their reputation as a trusted, forward-thinking leader in the property market. The refreshed identity reflects both their professionalism and their client-focused approach, while establishing a strong foundation for continued growth. With a more structured operational presence and a revitalised, user-focused digital experience, Maguire Jackson now stands out online—making it easier for clients to discover, explore, and engage with their services. Confident in their renewed direction, they are poised to strengthen their influence across Birmingham’s property landscape and continue setting the standard for excellence.