Business Details
18 Years
experience
Sustainable Architects in Glasgow
John Gilbert Architects is a Scottish design studio dedicated to creating sustainable, people-centric spaces that harmonise with the environment. With over 15 years of experience, we specialise in strategic planning, conservation, and high-performance architecture, prioritising community engagement and energy efficiency. Our team holds multiple accreditations, including Passivhaus, RIBA Conservation, and ISO certifications, ensuring rigorous standards in every project. We collaborate closely with clients to deliver affordable, durable buildings tailored to user needs, from small-scale retrofits to large regeneration schemes.Our commitment to innovation is demonstrated through initiatives like Hab-Lab, which optimises building performance, and Passivhoos, Scotland's first certified Passivhaus social housing model. Recognised with numerous awards, we combine technical expertise with a deep understanding of local contexts to create lasting architectural solutions that address both climate and social justice.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Conservation & Retrofit
Strategy & Masterplan
Hab-Lab
Passivhoos
Tenement Toolbox
Sussed Sustainability
BIMx Viewers
Client Briefings
Commissioned Research
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We have over 15 years of experience in sustainable architecture and retrofit design.
- Our team holds Passivhaus and RIBA Conservation accreditations for technical excellence.
- We pioneered Scotland's first certified Passivhaus social housing model (Passivhoos).
- Our ISO-certified processes ensure rigorous quality and environmental standards.
- We co-developed the Tenement Toolbox for practical heritage building maintenance.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA Conservation
- RIAS Sustainable Design
- Passivhaus
- ISO 9001
- ISO 14001
- ISO 45001
- TrustMark
What people say
Highest quality energy-efficient design
Excellent community engagement
Innovative retrofit tools
First-class service
Exceptional construction standards
Services
Sustainable Architecture
We create contemporary, energy-efficient buildings tailored to user needs and environmental contexts. Our approach combines creative design with technical expertise to deliver durable, low-carbon structures that enhance community well-being. Projects range from single homes to large-scale developments, all meeting rigorous sustainability benchmarks.
Conservation & Retrofit
We revitalise historic buildings while preserving their character, improving energy efficiency and functionality. Our accredited specialists work collaboratively to extend building lifespans, reduce running costs, and adapt structures for modern use without compromising architectural integrity or historical value.
Hab-Lab
This initiative measures and improves building performance through dedicated specialist analysis. We help clients benchmark energy efficiency, identify improvements, and implement solutions for both new and existing properties, ensuring optimal environmental and economic outcomes across housing portfolios.
Passivhoos
Scotland's first certified Passivhaus social housing model provides affordable, energy-efficient homes. This design meets strict sustainability standards while remaining cost-effective, offering residents lower fuel bills, improved air quality, and comfortable living environments through advanced construction techniques.
Strategy & Masterplan
We develop long-term regeneration strategies for towns and housing estates using expert planning and urban design skills. Our masterplans balance stakeholder needs with community benefits, creating functional spaces that support sustainable growth and enhance local environments.
People
Matt Bridgestock
Managing Director
Architect, town planner, and Passivhaus designer with RIAS sustainable design accreditation. Former chair of Scottish Ecological Design Association, leading office operations and Section 6 certification.
Chris Morgan
Director / Architect
Over 25 years' experience with Passivhaus, Permaculture, and Building Biology certifications. Former SEDA chair and RIAS sustainability accreditation holder, focusing on research and innovation in sustainable design.
Scott Abercrombie
Associate Director / Architect
Conservation specialist with RIBA and IHBC accreditations. Leads BIM implementation and Tenement Toolbox development, chairing Glasgow Institute of Architects Conservation Committee.
Barbara Lantschner
Associate Director / Building Performance Specialist
Retrofit expert specialising in building performance analysis. Leads Hab-Lab initiatives to improve energy efficiency across housing stocks through data-driven, innovative solutions.
Gillies MacPhail
Senior Architect
Award-winning architect managing complex projects from inception to completion. Holds RIAS sustainable design accreditation and contributes to community-led architectural initiatives across Scotland.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in sustainable architecture, conservation, retrofit design, strategic masterplanning, and performance-driven solutions like Passivhoos and Hab-Lab.
Are you accredited for conservation projects?
Yes, our team holds RIBA and IHBC conservation accreditations for heritage building preservation and adaptive reuse projects.
Do you work outside Scotland?
While based in Glasgow, we work across Scotland and occasionally collaborate on UK-wide projects through initiatives like Sussed Sustainability.
What is your approach to sustainable design?
We integrate energy efficiency, material sustainability, and user needs to create buildings that last generations while minimising environmental impact through methods like Passivhaus standards.
Can you assist with tenement building maintenance?
Yes, our Tenement Toolbox provides condition reports and repair strategies specifically for traditional Scottish tenement buildings.
Do you offer building performance analysis?
Our Hab-Lab service provides detailed performance assessments and improvement strategies for both new and existing building stocks.
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