Business Details
14 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architects in Edinburgh
Founded in 2012, Staran Architects is an award-winning practice based in Edinburgh and Kinross, Scotland. Our approach prioritises client-specific requirements, blending creative design with technical expertise to deliver exceptional spaces. With extensive experience in residential and commercial architecture, we specialise in new builds, extensions, listed buildings, and conservation projects. Our collaborative methodology ensures we fully understand client needs while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and innovation. Operating nationally across the UK, we have completed projects ranging from private homes to mixed-use developments.Our team combines decades of experience in architectural design, construction law, and technical delivery. We pride ourselves on transparency, quality control, and maintaining strong relationships with contractors and stakeholders. Our work has been featured in Grand Designs and received planning approvals for complex heritage projects. By offering both traditional design-tender-build services and architect-led design & build solutions, we provide flexibility to meet client preferences. Our Edinburgh-based team continues to push boundaries in architectural excellence while maintaining a client-centric ethos.
Services
Residential Architecture
Commercial Architecture
Design & Build
Listed Building Projects
Sustainable Design
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- Founded in 2012 with 15+ years' combined experience in architectural design
- Collaborative approach tailored to individual client requirements
- Specialists in listed buildings and conservation area projects
- Offer architect-led design & build services for full project control
- Proven track record with nationwide projects from Highlands to London
Services
Residential Architecture
We create bespoke residential solutions tailored to client needs, from new build homes to property extensions. Our expertise includes working with listed buildings and conservation areas while maximising space and natural light. Projects range from contemporary countryside homes to urban conservation developments.
Commercial Architecture
Our commercial services cover hotels, restaurants, office spaces, and mixed-use developments. We focus on functional design that meets business objectives while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Recent projects include theatre conversions and distillery developments with attention to heritage contexts.
Design & Build
This integrated service combines architectural design with construction management under one entity. Clients benefit from cost certainty, streamlined communication, and quality control throughout the process. Ideal for new build homes requiring coordinated design and build delivery.
Listed Building Projects
Specialist conservation work preserving historical integrity while meeting modern requirements. Our team has extensive experience with A and B listed buildings, securing planning approvals for sensitive extensions and conversions across Scotland.
Sustainable Design
We incorporate energy-efficient solutions and environmentally conscious materials throughout our projects. From passive solar design to sustainable material selection, our approach balances ecological responsibility with functional architectural excellence in both residential and commercial contexts.
People
James Ferguson
Co-founder
Registered architect with 15+ years' construction experience. Oversees operational aspects and leads high-volume residential/commercial projects. Specialist in listed buildings and sustainable design solutions.
Iain Shillady
Co-founder
Trained at Glasgow School of Art with Masters in Construction Law. Focuses on client collaboration and practical design solutions. Recently completed personal new build home project, understanding client challenges firsthand.
David Alexander
Design Director
First-class degree from Edinburgh College of Art. Leads technical team with expertise in architectural technology and 3D visualisation. Combines design sensitivity with technical precision across diverse project types.
Nikolina Gencheva
Architectural Technologist
First-class honours graduate from Napier University. BIM software expert with focus on sustainable design principles. Supports architectural teams with technical documentation and environmental considerations.
Stuart Morrison
Project Architect
Joined Staran in 2019 with experience across multiple sectors. Skilled in all project stages from concept to construction. Combines design passion with strong client communication abilities for residential and developer clients.
Questions
What project types and scales do you handle?
We work on residential new builds/extensions and commercial projects including hotels, distilleries, and mixed-use developments across the UK.
Which geographic areas do you cover?
We operate nationwide for larger projects and within 1.5 hours of Edinburgh/Kinross for smaller developments.
What are your architectural fees?
Typical full service fees range 8-12% of build cost for one-off homes, adjusted based on project complexity.
Do you offer design & build services?
Yes, we provide architect-led design & build solutions managing projects from concept through construction.
How long does the architectural process take?
New build houses typically require 18-24 months including planning, technical design, and construction phases.
Can you assist with contractor selection?
We collaborate with reputable contractors and offer full design & build services depending on project location.
