A new home for Architecture and Design Scotland

This month we are saying goodbye to our current office in Bakehouse Close, Jim MacDonald, Chief Executive of Architecture and Design Scotland, writes. We have been based in the heart of Edinburgh’s old town since our foundation nearly 20 years ago, before which it was home to the Royal Fine Art Commission in Scotland.

The building was renovated by Richard Murphy Architects in the mid-90s and has since hosted numerous design reviews, events, and discussions; welcoming visitors from across the country and around the world. It has also seen the evolution of our role to being involved much earlier in projects.

In a post-pandemic world, our office was less busy as many colleagues worked remotely. With the challenges to the public sector budget, we took the opportunity to rethink our office space requirements.

Collaboration space 

I am pleased to announce that as of May 1st, 2024, we will be relocating to the Edinburgh Futures Institute, located in the newly renovated former Royal Infirmary at Lauriston Place, designed by Bennetts Associates.

The team at Edinburgh Futures Institute, which is part of Edinburgh University, have carefully curated the “wards” where external agencies will work. In line with our commitment to design and collaboration, we believe that being in this hub of like-minded organisations and working alongside researchers aligns perfectly with our strategic aim of putting collaboration at the heart of designing places.

Next steps 

I know many of you may have fond memories of Bakehouse Close and the professional relationships and friendships that have developed from there. We are delighted to have been able to donate almost all our office furniture and fittings to other organisations and charities. And whilst we will miss the place, an organisation is ultimately about the people who make it happen. We look forward to sharing how we are continuing to collaborate to improve Scotland's places.