amynicole – Founded in 2002 by Alex Bane, Ryan Wills, and Spencer Buck, Taxi Studio began as a bold venture outside the traditional London-centric creative circuit. From its home in Bristol, the agency steadily built a reputation for delivering top-tier design with global impact. Now operating from a newly upgraded studio space, Taxi continues to evolve while staying true to its fiercely independent spirit.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Bristol’s creative community, Taxi Studio exemplifies how location doesn’t define creative excellence. The founders’ decision to base their operations in the South West of England wasn’t just about geography—it was a statement. They believed exceptional branding work could thrive far from the capital.
“Why not Bristol?” asks client services director Natalie Matti-Brown. “The UK’s creative pulse beats in many places, not just London. Bristol, Manchester, Brighton, Edinburgh—they’re all hubs of innovation and talent.”
This commitment to place infuses Taxi’s work with energy, character, and originality. Drawing from Bristol’s cultural roots—known for independence, bold ideas, and artistic vibrancy—Taxi blends global strategic thinking with local authenticity.
Founders Built A Bold Alternative Outside London’s Creative Core
In the early 2000s, Taxi Studio’s three founders—Alex Bane, Ryan Wills, and Spencer Buck—stood at a career crossroads when their then-agency’s owner stepped away. Rather than move to London like many peers, they chose to stay in Bristol and create something of their own. That leap of faith laid the foundation for an agency built on independence, local pride, and creative conviction.
From day one, the trio envisioned a studio that could challenge big-city agencies while operating on their own terms. The journey wasn’t without setbacks. “There’s no single moment where you feel like you’ve made it,” says creative director Karl Wills. “Just the daily challenge of staying in business, staying inspired, and balancing creativity with commercial sensibility.”
Taxi applies that same principle to every project, from local ventures to international campaigns. The team maintains that roots matter, and Bristol remains a natural home for a studio with global ambitions and a hometown heartbeat.
Turning Points That Shaped Taxi Studio Creative Reputation
While Taxi Studio never relied on a singular breakthrough, it did experience defining moments. One early success came through an unconventional pitch to the Science Museum. Instead of a typical brochure, the team proposed interactive leaflets that brought exhibits to life. That idea caught fire, winning awards and pushing open new doors.
From that point forward, momentum built steadily. But what truly defines Taxi’s legacy is its commitment to long-term partnerships. “We’ve worked with some clients for decades,” says Natalie Matti-Brown. “That kind of relationship doesn’t happen unless you consistently deliver with integrity.”
For Taxi, accolades are welcome, but loyalty is the real prize. Every brand collaboration—whether global or homegrown—is treated with care, curiosity, and a relentless pursuit of creative excellence.
Meaningful Projects Drive Personal And Creative Growth
At Taxi Studio, projects are more than design challenges—they are chances to create something lasting. For client services director Natalie Matti-Brown, leading the transformation of legacy brands like Minute Maid and Tim Hortons stands out. As a Canadian, working on Tim Hortons had personal meaning. “The scale was massive,” she says. “We built something bold, memorable, and award-winning.”
For creative director Karl Wills, the most formative project has been his own evolution at Taxi. Starting as a junior, he had to carve his own space in a studio led by his brother, Ryan, and co-founder Spencer Buck. “I had to earn my stripes,” Karl says. “Every pitch and project pushed me to prove myself. That pressure shaped my confidence and craft.”
Taxi’s approach ensures every brief becomes a creative opportunity. “The thrill,” Karl adds, “comes from pushing past the obvious. We stretch ideas to places that clients didn’t think possible—and that’s where the magic happens.”
Taxi Studio Collaborative Culture Built On Trust, Not Titles
Taxi Studio thrives on a culture where ideas matter more than job titles. The agency actively rejects rigid hierarchies, creating an open environment where everyone is empowered to contribute. “Psychological safety is everything,” says Natalie. “We build teams where people can speak freely and do their best work without fear of judgment.”
This trust-based culture means even newcomers get to shape big ideas. “When I started, I didn’t have a strong branding background,” Natalie recalls. “But my voice still counted from day one.”
Team members at Taxi are trusted to manage their time, their projects, and their professional growth. “It’s not about working late to prove yourself,” Natalie explains. “It’s about what you bring to the table—and knowing you’ll be heard when you do.”
Designing A Studio That Reflects Their Identity
Taxi Studio’s recent move into a custom-designed workspace marks a new era for the Bristol-based agency. “We had outgrown our old space,” says creative director Karl Wills. “It no longer reflected who we had become as a team or as a brand.”
The new studio wasn’t just a relocation—it was a creative statement. Designed entirely by the team, the space embodies the values that have guided Taxi since day one: creativity, authenticity, and independence. It’s elegant yet personal, bold yet welcoming. “When you walk through it, you know exactly where you are,” says Karl. “It feels like Taxi, and that was always the goal.”
Beyond aesthetics, the new studio fosters collaboration and focus. It’s a place where creative ideas are nurtured, not just executed. The design encourages spontaneous conversation, shared ownership, and space for bold thinking. It’s more than just a studio—it’s a physical reflection of the studio’s ambition and belief in the power of thoughtful design.
Taxi Studio Challenging Expectations While Expanding Global Reach
Taxi Studio doesn’t just follow briefs—it interrogates them. “We always ask why,” says client services director Natalie Matti-Brown. “If the brief doesn’t aim high enough, we push back. Strategic thinking guides everything we do.”
The agency treats every client as a partner, not just a project. This approach has earned long-term trust and creative freedom. “We’re not here to just tick boxes,” Karl adds. “We want to go beyond expectations and create work that lasts.”
Taxi’s compact size allows it to remain agile and deeply collaborative. Because of this, everyone has a voice, and every idea has a chance to shine. Moreover, this structure fosters a culture where feedback is immediate, and innovation happens faster. As the studio looks ahead, global expansion is firmly on the horizon.
In fact, the team believes that their independence and flexibility are key advantages in an increasingly competitive market. “We’re ready,” says Karl. “Now it’s just about making sure the world sees what we can do.” With a growing portfolio and momentum behind them, Taxi is not just stepping onto the global stage—it’s arriving with intent.
