Business Details
49 Years
experience
Award-Winning Scottish Architectural Design
Established in 1977 by Professor Fred Stephen, our architectural practice has evolved into one of Scotland's leading design firms. We combine design excellence with commercial awareness to create innovative, aesthetically pleasing buildings that address both current and future needs. Our approach emphasizes environmental responsibility, contextual sensitivity, and meticulous attention to detail. With a heritage rooted in Angus and a global perspective, we've delivered award-winning projects across sectors including residential, commercial, healthcare, and ecclesiastical architecture. Our family-led practice maintains a client-centric philosophy, fostering long-term relationships through tailored solutions and collaborative design processes. Services
Architectural Design
Conservation Projects
Residential Projects
Commercial Projects
Urban Development
Details
- Year established: 1977
Highlights and features
- We offer 45+ years of architectural expertise with a family-led approach
- Our team includes RIAS adjudicators and professional examiners
- We maintain ISO 9001 quality management certification
- We've completed projects in 5 continents with international recognition
- Our BIM and cybersecurity capabilities ensure modern project delivery
Associations and certifications
- ISO 9001
- ISO 14001
- ISO 27001
Services
Architectural Design
We create innovative architectural solutions tailored to client needs and site contexts. Our designs balance aesthetic vision with practical functionality across residential, commercial, and public sectors. With over 45 years of experience, we deliver buildings that respond to environmental considerations while maintaining commercial viability through careful budget management and material selection.
Conservation Projects
Specializing in historic building preservation, we combine traditional techniques with modern requirements. Our award-winning conservation work maintains structural integrity while introducing contemporary elements where appropriate. Projects include Verdant Works in Dundee and Anchor Mills in Paisley, demonstrating our ability to breathe new life into historic structures while respecting their original character.
Residential Projects
We design bespoke residential spaces that reflect occupants' lifestyles and surroundings. From private homes to student accommodations, our approach considers environmental context, family needs, and future adaptability. Recent projects showcase innovative use of materials like Douglas Fir glulam beams and natural stone, creating warm, functional living spaces that integrate with their landscapes.
Commercial Projects
Our commercial architecture creates productive work environments that balance aesthetics with functionality. We design flexible spaces that accommodate current needs while allowing future modifications. Notable projects include the Wood Group Headquarters in Aberdeen and West Port development in Dundee, demonstrating our ability to deliver large-scale commercial solutions that meet BCO guidelines and BREEAM standards.
Urban Development
We develop urban regeneration schemes that enhance community spaces while respecting historical context. Our approach restores lost urban frameworks and creates cohesive streetscapes that integrate with existing architecture. The West Port development in Dundee exemplifies our ability to transform city centers through mixed-use developments that combine commercial, residential, and cultural elements.
People
Professor Fred Stephen
Founding Partner
Established the practice in 1977, combining academic expertise with practical experience. Recognized for innovative design approaches and maintaining the firm's core philosophy of 'never forgetting your roots'. Continues to influence major projects while mentoring the next generation.
Rosemary Stephen
Business Director
Manages operational aspects including finance and personnel. Holds an MBA and plays key role in client relationship development. Known for creating the welcoming atmosphere that helps establish trust with international clients during initial consultations.
Paul Stephen
Partner
RIAS adjudicator and professional examiner with legal qualifications in construction law. Oversees quality management systems and ISO compliance. Brings technical expertise to complex projects while maintaining the practice's design excellence tradition.
David Stephen
Partner
Leads BIM implementation and cybersecurity initiatives. Combines digital innovation with traditional architectural values. Ensures the practice remains at the forefront of technological advancements while maintaining its design heritage.
Rosemary Stephen
Business Director
Manages operational aspects including finance and personnel. Holds an MBA and plays key role in client relationship development. Known for creating the welcoming atmosphere that helps establish trust with international clients during initial consultations.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full architectural services from concept to completion including design, planning permissions, construction management, and specialist consultancy coordination.
How experienced is your team?
Our partners have over 120 combined years of architectural experience with professional qualifications from RIAS, ISO certifications, and leadership roles in industry organizations.
What project sectors do you specialize in?
We work across residential, commercial, healthcare, ecclesiastical, and conservation sectors with notable projects including V&A Dundee and Maggie's Centre.
Can you handle international projects?
Yes, we've completed projects in five continents with recent work in Dubai, France, and Italy using our established global project delivery systems.
What makes your practice unique?
As a family-led practice since 1977, we combine generational knowledge with modern BIM technology and maintain a 90% repeat client rate through personalized service.
How do you approach conservation projects?
Our award-winning conservation approach balances heritage preservation with modern functionality, demonstrated through projects like Verdant Works and Anchor Mills.
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