Sigma Architects

10/02/2026

We have been busy behind the scenes … first glimpses of the huge mezzanine floors which will house a cafe, studios and treatment spaces 🤩

10/02/2026

🎥 Lots has been happening behind the scenes …

"I don't care if you're seven or 77, we want there to be a place for you in this place." 💪💥

Damien, the Hollywood stuntman behind a multi-million pound stunt academy and film studio being built in Derby, says the progress being made is "incredible".

See inside the former Victorian foundry: https://bbc.in/4rGG7ye

03/02/2026

02/10/2025

📢 Exciting News: Planning Permission Granted for Derby's Stunt Academy!

🔦 🎥 🎬 Lights, Camera, Action! Derby City Council has just green-lit blockbuster plans to transform the derelict Aida Bliss factory on City Road into a state-of-the-art stunt academy. This isn't just any project — it's set to train the next generation of stunt performers, filmmakers, and gymnasts, breathing new life into a Victorian heritage site that's been battling years of vandalism and decay.

Led by renowned Derby producer and stunt coordinator Damien Walters (credits include Captain America: The First Avenger and Kingsman: The Secret Service), the facility will become a new home for Derby City Gymnastics Club while offering world-class training in stunts, acting, and film production.

The transformation unfolds in three dynamic phases:
- Phase 1: Convert the modern rear warehouse into a cutting-edge gymnasium, performance studios, and a healthy-eating café.
- Phase 2: Repurpose the historic foundry into immersive set areas for filming, stunt work, and acting.
- Phase 3: Construct a dedicated gym and rehab facility for elite athletes.

As a cherished heritage asset, the building's external facade will stay true to its roots, preserving Derby's industrial legacy while infusing it with modern energy. This initiative represents a "high-profile opportunity" to catapult Derby onto the international stage as a hub for film-making and gymnastics, diversifying the local economy and uplifting the entire community.

"This project is incredibly exciting and transformative for Derby and the Chester Green area," says Lee Smith, MD and Chartered Architect at Sigma Architects. "It's not just about revitalizing a forgotten site—the City Road Academy will create future stars on both sides of the camera, train Olympians, foster film and media creativity, and position Derby as a global hub for innovative industries. We're thrilled to lead this first major phase in evolving our city into a powerhouse for film and performance arts."

At Sigma Architects, we're passionate about breathing new life into unloved buildings like this one. Got a derelict space gathering dust? Let's chat! For the cost of a coffee, we offer an initial walkaround and consultation to unlock its hidden potential—tailored plans, heritage-sensitive designs, and community-driven impact that elevates your vision. DM us or visit our website to get started. Are you ready to call ‘Action’ on your next grand design? 🎥🤸‍♂️

22/12/2023

Reflecting on an incredible year! 🚀 #2023 has been a whirlwind of growth and achievement for our team, and we're thrilled to share some highlights.

Last week, we celebrated our successes with an unforgettable evening at Lorentes Derby, surrounded by our amazing team, spouses, and partners. It was a moment to appreciate our collective efforts and look forward to the exciting opportunities that await us in #2024.

Our commitment to commercially driven excellent customer service has fueled our organic growth, expanding our footprint across various sectors. In 2023, we've not only continued delivering multiple projects for our valued residential developer clients but have also made significant strides in the Education, Masterplanning, and Workplace Fit-Out sectors.

As a practice, we're witnessing the positive transformation of our home city. Key projects like the Aida Bliss Foundry brought a touch of Hollywood to Chester Green, St. James' Street due to be revitalization, and city-living projects dotting the landscape.

As we wrap up the year and close our laptops for a well-deserved break, we extend heartfelt wishes to all our Clients and Colleagues for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Your support has been the driving force behind our success, and we look forward to continuing this journey together in the coming year. Here's to a prosperous and joyous 2024! 🎉

22/11/2023

Susan Hanks goes looking for celebrities on set in Derby.

22/11/2023

The former Aida Bliss factory is the base for a new studio and stunt training academy

22/11/2023

"The impact to the area will be immense, certainly once the film is released" 👀

This former factory in Derby has been a hive of activity for the past two days.

Read more: https://bbc.in/3sBFb5z