Business Details
27 Years
experience
Trusted Architects in Fort William | D Kelly Design
Established in 1999, D Kelly Design is a distinguished architectural practice based in Fort William, Scotland. Founded by Duncan Kelly, a seasoned architectural consultant with over three decades of experience, we specialise in creating bespoke, timber-frame residences and delivering comprehensive architectural solutions for residential, commercial, and leisure projects. Our approach prioritises understanding client needs, ensuring meticulous attention to detail, and fostering lasting relationships through collaborative design. With a multidisciplinary team, we operate across the Highlands & Islands, Argyll & Bute, and the Outer & Inner Hebrides, as well as further afield in locations like Torpoint and Bishop Auckland.Our portfolio demonstrates a commitment to sustainable, context-sensitive design that harmonises with its surroundings. We adhere to industry standards through the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) and maintain strong partnerships with local authorities and contractors to ensure seamless project delivery. Our expertise in remote projects and client-centric ethos have earned us repeat business and a reputation for excellence.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Developments
Housing Projects
Leisure Projects
Measured Surveys
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- We offer over 30 years of architectural expertise in remote and challenging locations.
- Our multidisciplinary team ensures seamless project delivery from inception to completion.
- We provide transparent fee quotations tailored to your specific project requirements.
- Our collaborative approach prioritises client vision and long-term satisfaction.
- We maintain strong relationships with local authorities for efficient planning approvals.
Associations and certifications
- Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT)
Services
Residential Architecture
We specialise in bespoke timber-frame residences tailored to client lifestyles and landscapes. Our process combines innovative design with practical functionality, ensuring homes harmonise with their surroundings while meeting modern sustainability standards. Projects range from countryside retreats to urban dwellings across Scotland.
Commercial Developments
Our commercial architecture spans industrial units, office spaces, and mixed-use developments. We focus on creating efficient, future-proof environments that balance aesthetic appeal with operational practicality. Recent projects include large-scale recirculation units and adaptive reuse of historic buildings.
Housing Projects
We design sustainable housing developments from affordable units to luxury apartments. Our expertise includes masterplanning, compliance with local regulations, and integrating green spaces. Notable projects include Riverside Grove (13 homes) and Morrison Avenue (16 affordable units) in Lochaber.
Leisure Projects
We create functional, inspiring leisure facilities including sports clubs and lodges. Our approach prioritises community needs while ensuring durability and aesthetic integration with natural surroundings. Recent work includes Kilmallie Shinty Club in Fort William.
Measured Surveys
We provide precise land and building surveys essential for accurate design and planning. Our services include topographic mapping, as-existing drawings, and level surveys to support renovation or new-build projects with data-driven foundations.
People
Duncan Kelly
Founder & Architectural Consultant
With over 30 years' experience, Duncan founded the practice in 1999. He previously worked in partnerships since 1987, specialising in context-sensitive architecture across Scotland's challenging landscapes.
Emma Jane Henderson
Architectural Technologist
Bringing 28 years of expertise, Emma Jane manages technical aspects of projects. Her experience spans residential and commercial developments, ensuring designs meet regulatory standards and client expectations.
Mary Kelly
Administrative Secretary
Mary has supported the practice for 12 years, coordinating project logistics and client communications. Her organisational skills ensure smooth operations across remote and local projects.
Lewis Simpson
Architectural Technologist
Lewis joined in 2015, contributing technical proficiency to complex projects. His work focuses on housing schemes and commercial developments, blending innovation with practical construction knowledge.
Max Henderson
Apprentice Technologist
Max began his apprenticeship in 2020, gaining hands-on experience in design and documentation. He supports measured surveys and as-existing drawings, developing skills under senior team mentorship.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We specialise in residential, commercial, and leisure projects including bespoke homes, housing developments, measured surveys, and adaptive reuse of buildings.
Do you work outside the Highlands & Islands?
Yes, while based in Lochaber, we undertake projects across Scotland, Argyll & Bute, the Hebrides, and locations like Torpoint and Bishop Auckland.
How do you involve clients in the design process?
We begin with detailed consultations to understand your vision, followed by transparent fee proposals and regular updates throughout the project lifecycle.
Are you accredited by professional bodies?
We adhere to Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) standards, ensuring professional excellence and compliance with industry best practices.
Can you handle remote or challenging sites?
Our extensive experience in remote locations ensures successful project delivery through meticulous planning, local authority collaboration, and innovative design solutions.
