A Berkshire-based modelmaker is expanding after investing £1.5m in a new HQ and production centre in Sunningdale.

Atom Ltd is a specialist in a range of disciplines, including commissions for scale architecture models, Hollywood film and TV props, and prototypes for new product and packaging designs. Atom also uses its skills and facilities to help internationally renowned artists to bring their visions to life.

The business has acquired and transformed its new 6,000 sq ft facility – the Thorp Building – from a serviced office into a specialist design and production space with the support of a £930,000 loan from Lloyds Bank. Atom has also invested in new machinery, such as high-tech 3D printers to produce models more efficiently, ventilation systems to minimise dust, and has reconfigured the layout to accommodate flexible working.

Before being sold and converted into offices, the Thorp Building was originally purpose-built for Atom subsidiary Thorp Modelmakers, and the move sees the business return ‘home’ after more than two decades away.

Alongside the new HQ, Atom has also invested £400,000 in acquiring a new 3,000 sq ft production and storage unit in North Ascot, adjacent to their existing 4,000 sq ft hub. The new unit is fitted with floor-to-ceiling shutters, allowing Atom to construct and transport larger pieces of work, including components for building interiors.

The new unit will help Atom produce larger pieces and designs commissioned by internationally renowned artists, as well as accelerate its move into offering modular construction services. For example, Atom is currently constructing a brand-new visitor centre for Welsh whisky brand Penderyn Distillery.

The expansion comes as Atom aims to cement its position as one of Britain’s leading modelmakers. Atom produces a variety of props and components for film and TV sets, including worldwide blockbusters Ant Man and Dr Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, as well as Netflix hit Bridgerton. The business also created a ‘cavemobile’, a version of the car that will be used in upcoming an upcoming series on The Flintstones.

Atom, established in 1983, acquired specialist architectural firm Thorp Modelmakers in 1995, which is renowned for developing pre-construction models for some London’s most iconic landmarks over its 140-year history, including the redesign of Covent Garden. More recently under the Thorp brand, the business has been responsible for architectural models for recent developments such as ‘St George Wharf’ and ‘Nine Elms Park’.

The business operates with an experienced team of 30 computer-aided design technicians, designers, engineers, sculptors and award-winning finishers. Building on its track record, Atom is targeting a growth in turnover of 10% this year as the new facility allows the business to become more efficient and fulfil larger commissions.

Nick Mines, co-founder and director at Atom, said: “The move into this new facility is both a sign of the future of our business, but also a nod to our history. The Thorp Building was originally home to Thorp Modelmakers, so this really feels like we’re moving back home, while also moving to a new level.

“Our business is going from strength to strength, and the move from making models of buildings to include making full-size building interiors is a perfect example of that. This growth is down to our team of experienced and talented designers and crafters. The quality of their work means that we’re being trusted with larger and grander commissions, and our expansion means that they have the space they need to create amazing things.”

Martin Bacon, relationship manager at Lloyds Bank, said: “Britain is full of skilled specialists, recognised by projects, brands and artists around the world. The team at Atom is no different, and its growth is testament to that.

“Having a custom space to thrive and grow into is important for any business and will help to provide the platform for it to meet its ambitions. It’s been a pleasure to support Atom with its move back into the Thorp Building, and we’re committed to remaining by their side as they move onto bigger and better things.”