We design the buildings that power global trade and fast deliveries, supporting the backbone of modern commerce.
Over a Decade of Leading
Distribution and Logistics
As sector leaders, UMC Architects specialise in high-performance architectural solutions that establish new benchmarks for efficiency, scalability, and sustainability for our distribution and logistics clients.
Let’s transform the way the world moves.
Our Distribution and Logistics portfolio speaks for itself and includes over 50million sq feet of delivered floorspace.
Our experience means we understand the specific needs of these facilities and recognise the need to respond to commercial pressures and planning sensitivities. At the time of submission, Mercia Park was the UK’s largest speculative planning application.
These aren’t your average “sheds”. They’re smart, sustainable megastructure hubs that redefine the future of logistics.
We immerse ourselves in your operation
We take the time to listen and deeply understand your operation, ensuring every design detail enhances efficiency and boosts productivity.
Our collaborative approach guarantees that each building is a strategic asset that drives performance and grows with your business.
Your operation is unique, and so is every UMC Architects design solution.
High Performance Buildings
Our expertise extends to designing multi-channel warehouses that facilitate both retail and online requirements. These facilities are optimised for flexibility, allowing for the efficient management of both traditional retail stock and fast-moving e-commerce products.
Whether for very narrow aisle (VNA) racking or conventional wide-aisle systems, we design low-bay warehouses that maximise storage capacity while allowing for smooth operational flow. These warehouses are adaptable across industries and storage methods.
We design state-of-the-art high-bay automated storage facilities, capable of managing large volumes of both food and non-food products. These fully automated systems minimise human intervention while maximising speed and accuracy in the storage and retrieval process.
Understanding the precise requirements for temperature-controlled storage, we design chill stores to handle fresh produce across various temperature regimes. Our solutions ensure the preservation and longevity of perishable goods while complying with strict food industry regulations.
We design cold (freezer) storage facilities, both as standalone units and integrated within composite buildings. These facilities focus on energy efficiency and operational flow, maintaining the integrity of frozen goods.
Specialising in fully automated logistics buildings, we incorporate advanced technologies like multi-level picking mezzanines to enhance operational efficiency, streamline workflow, and reduce labour costs—ideal for industries with high-volume, time-sensitive products.
Our design expertise extends to port-side bonded warehouses, where goods can be stored without incurring customs duties until entering the market. We ensure these facilities meet international regulations and provide seamless access for shipping and receiving.
We design air freight storage facilities with direct airside links, enabling rapid and efficient handling of goods. These facilities are essential for industries reliant on fast-moving cargo, ensuring smooth, uninterrupted flow between air transport and storage.
For sectors requiring secure storage of sensitive materials, we offer specialist document storage solutions. These facilities focus on safety, accessibility, and organisation, ensuring documents are securely stored while remaining easy to retrieve when necessary.
Future Flow
Multi-Modal Logistics Parks
In a world that never stops moving and demand for sustainable distribution never stops rising, UMC Architects weave active and public mobility solutions into every design.
The result? Future-ready logistics hubs that keep businesses sharp, supply chains strong and commerce moving forward.
The experience of Logistics and Distribution sites is evolving.
Operational efficiency is important, but only a part of the story.
UMC Architects craft environments where the pursuit of health and well-being is woven into the fabric of each campus. A commitment that elevates value, but also enriches job satisfaction and workforce wellness.
Imagine vast sites transformed into living canvases: 5km of active travel routes integrated into native green corridors, restorative gardens that invite pause and reflection, natural orchards bursting with life and community allotments that nurture connection.
These are not mere functional spaces, but vibrant, engaging environments that inspire and rejuvenate every sense.
Explore how we’ve used this approach to define impactful solutions
DPD Revolution Park, Wolverhampton
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Other Sectors
Datacentres
UMC Architects’ datacentre designs integrate technical expertise and innovation, focusing on space optimisation, energy efficiency, and resilience. Prioritising security, performance, availability, and sustainability, we adhere to industry standards like BREEAM, utilising advanced cooling systems, high-performance servers, and renewable energy solutions such as photovoltaic panels. Our designs ensure secure, reliable, and environmentally responsible infrastructure that meets modern operational needs while setting new industry standards.
Learn MoreOur process
Simplicity and refinement define our logistics strategy. Step behind the scenes and explore our design process.