Business Details
10 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architectural Design in Glasgow
Established in 2016 by Matt Loader and Iain Monteith, our architectural practice is rooted in a shared passion for creating meaningful spaces that harmonise with their environment. We specialise in conservation and sustainable design, blending historical sensitivity with modern functionality to deliver buildings that enhance human experience. Our team of skilled architects brings decades of collective expertise in heritage projects, low-carbon technologies, and community-focused design. Recognised for award-winning work across cultural, educational, and residential sectors, we prioritise collaboration with clients, contractors, and local craftspeople to ensure every project reflects its unique context.With a commitment to circular design principles and regenerative practices, we strive to create enduring architecture that addresses both present needs and future challenges. Our leadership in the industry is evidenced by our roles as RIAS trustees, university tutors, and recipients of prestigious design awards.
Services
Architectural Design
Heritage Conservation
Sustainable Architecture
Project Management
Passive House Design
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- We are certified conservation specialists with 25+ years combined heritage expertise
- Our team includes Certified Passive House designers and RIAS award winners
- We integrate circular design principles in every project for long-term sustainability
- Award-winning practice with 14+ industry accolades since 2018
- Collaborative approach combining client needs with environmental sensitivity
What people say
Award-winning designs
Sustainable approach
Heritage expertise
Client-focused
Innovative solutions
Services
Heritage Conservation
Specialist restoration of listed buildings and historic structures. We employ traditional techniques while integrating modern sustainability standards. Our work preserves architectural integrity while adapting spaces for contemporary use, ensuring cultural legacy for future generations.
Sustainable Architecture
Circular design-focused projects minimising environmental impact. We implement renewable materials, energy-efficient systems, and regenerative practices. Our approach creates buildings that reduce carbon footprints while maintaining aesthetic and functional excellence across residential and commercial sectors.
Passive House Design
Certified Passive House specialists delivering ultra-low energy buildings. We combine thermal efficiency with optimal indoor climate control. Our designs meet rigorous international standards while maintaining architectural creativity and client-specific requirements for residential and institutional projects.
Project Management
End-to-end architectural project coordination from concept to completion. We ensure timely delivery within budget while maintaining design integrity. Our management covers regulatory compliance, contractor coordination, and quality control for complex heritage and new-build projects.
Cultural Architecture
Design of spaces for arts, education, and community engagement. We create environments that enhance cultural experiences while respecting historical contexts. Our portfolio includes award-winning learning hubs, performance venues, and community facilities across the UK.
People
Matt Loader
Co-founder and Director
Conservation Architect with 15+ years' experience leading award-winning projects. Former RIAS trustee and expert in contemporary design within historic settings. Specialises in adaptive restoration of listed buildings.
Iain Monteith
Co-founder and Director
Architect with 25+ years' experience managing complex projects from housing to healthcare. Focuses on community-responsive design and architectural education. Oversees practice strategy and large-scale developments.
Jamie Begg
Architectural Assistant
Certified Passive House designer with expertise in rural architecture and mental healthcare spaces. Specialises in reducing embodied carbon in construction projects across Scotland.
Catherine McCartney
Project Architect
Experienced in conservation projects including Westminster Abbey and Edinburgh Playhouse. Focuses on sustainable solutions for existing buildings and environmental impact reduction through architectural innovation.
Michael Southern
Architect and Passive House Designer
Specialist in cultural and residential projects with listed building experience. Teaches sustainability-focused architecture at Strathclyde University. Certified Passive House Designer with expertise in distillery and heritage developments.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in heritage conservation, sustainable design, Passive House projects, and cultural architecture. Our expertise spans residential, educational, and commercial sectors.
Do you work outside Scotland?
While based in Glasgow, we undertake projects across the UK and internationally, maintaining our commitment to contextual design regardless of location.
What sustainability principles guide your work?
We employ circular design principles, focusing on material reuse, energy efficiency, and regenerative practices to create buildings with minimal environmental impact.
How do you approach heritage projects?
Our conservation work combines traditional techniques with modern sustainability standards, preserving historical integrity while adapting spaces for contemporary use.
What project sizes do you handle?
We work on projects from small-scale residential extensions to large commercial developments, with a minimum construction budget of £200k.
Are you involved in architectural education?
Yes, our directors teach at Strathclyde University and Edinburgh University, and we actively mentor emerging architects through practice-based learning.
