This year marks a significant milestone for JMDA as they celebrate 15 years of transforming spaces and bringing visions to life in the hospitality and leisure industries. Over the past decade and a half, JMDA has grown from a small interior design practice into a renowned fifteen plus team known for its innovative approach and unwavering commitment to delivering ‘creativity that works.’ This guiding principle has not only defined their work in creating successful concepts but also, has earned them the trust and admiration of clients around the world. As we reflect on their journey and achievements, JMDA’s founder, Jonathon Morgan, wishes to express how filled with pride and gratitude he is for his talented team, loyal clients, and supportive partners who have been part of their story. Join us as we look back on 15 years of design excellence, explore the projects that have shaped their legacy, and share their visions for the future.
Jonathon Morgan began his journey in the field of interior design at Manchester University, where he achieved a BA Hons degree shortly followed by a Master’s degree, both in Interior Design. Following his academic achievements, he ventured to the United States, where he was The Professor of interior design at the University of Louisiana. After gaining valuable experience and a different cultural insight, Jonathon returned to England inspired to continue his career in interior design by joining the architectural practice, David Lyons and associates. Following this he had a period working for Group Northern and then spent time cutting his teeth with the nightlife leisure industry. He then moved on to work for Heron Design, where he remained for the next 12 years. During his tenure, he advanced to the position of Director and in doing so, Jonathon expanded his design expertise to include hotels, notably working with the Marriott team in London to develop a variety of new concept for Marriott Hotels.
Having gathered the extensive experience, tools and skills needed for successful concept creation, Jonathon launched JMDA in 2009, which now enjoys worldwide acclaim for its innovative and practical design solutions. Their reputation is driven by the reliable deliverance and creation of bespoke concepts, and subsequently brands, for both independent and blue-chip companies. The team currently specialises in the design of premium pubs, luxury hotels and spas, high-end residential properties, restaurants, social leisure facilities and exclusive night clubs. Designing premium pubs has become JMDA’s forte with them designing pubs across the UK for their loyal client, Mitchells & Butlers plc, since 2015. Another client who played a prominent part in the team’s journey was Grantley hall, a 5-star luxury hotel in Ripon.
From the get-go, JMDA has called Charity Farm barns their home. Converted barns buried in the North Yorkshire countryside have proven to be perfectly situated, not only in terms of being closely accessible to most areas of the country but, also in being an idyllic place to work where employees have a peaceful and beautiful environment to allow their creativity to flourish. With this in mind, the tight-knit team make sure walking boots are always on hand as ¬¬¬they often take walks across the national nature reserve throughout the day (their dogs are welcome too!) Between this and company’s social activities, such as the much-anticipated R&D trip to Berlin, JMDA has mastered creating foundations for a healthy, mindful and creative company, qualities that are ample in the success of their projects. The collection of experience across the team is harnessed together within JMDA, and it is this togetherness of their creativity that is the driving force behind the company’s success. As a team, they agree that it is imperative to give back to our communities therefore, collectively, the JMDA team has helped renovated Oasis community housing facility in Newcastle, walked Ben Nevis for the Rob Burrows charity, have bought defibrillators for the rural village their offices are situated in and have been committed to helping local students with being visiting lecturers at their local universities as well as offering work placements for students at these universities.
The future of JMDA is also looking exciting, with expanses in projects across the globe as well as more local projects such as Bawtry park hotel, a luxury resort and spa coming soon in Doncaster. As JMDA celebrates its 15 years of design, it is clear that their journey is far from over. With a foundation built on creativity, innovation, and a deep commitment to their clients, the team is poised to continue shaping the future of interior design in the hospitality and leisure industries. So, here’s to the next chapter of JMDA—one that promises even more achievements, ground-breaking new concepts, and continued success.