Kay rejoined HLM in November 2025 to relaunch the Plymouth studio, bringing over two decades of experience and a long-standing connection with the practice. Having first joined HLM in 2002, she spent 14 years with the practice – beginning her career in Sheffield before moving to Plymouth, where she contributed to a wide range of projects. A qualified interior designer, Kay is known for creating thoughtful, people-centred spaces across the education, healthcare and hospitality sectors. Her leadership experience includes running a successful interior design practice, and she is highly skilled in creating environments that enhance wellbeing and deliver exceptional user experiences.
Her return to HLM marks an exciting new chapter for the Plymouth studio, founded on collaboration, creativity and community impact. Kay leads and develops the Plymouth studio, overseeing project delivery and creative direction across multiple sectors. She’s passionate about fostering collaboration within the south west design community and mentoring emerging designers to support studio growth.
Kay believes in nurturing creativity, empowering the next generation of designers, and promoting diversity within the built environment. Her commitment to teaching and mentoring reflects her belief that design is a powerful tool for social and community change.