Business Details
34 Years
experience
Award-Winning Sustainable Architects in the Scottish Borders
Established in 1992, Keith Renton Architect is a family-run practice based in the Scottish Borders, delivering award-winning architectural solutions across the UK. Our expertise spans residential design, including new builds, conversions, and extensions, with a strong emphasis on low-energy, sustainable design principles. As certified Passive House specialists, we integrate the internationally recognised Passivhaus standard to create energy-efficient homes that balance functionality with aesthetic appeal. With over two decades of experience, our team has earned recognition through local authority awards and appearances in national media.We prioritise tailored client collaboration, using 3D visualisation and detailed energy calculations to transform unique briefs into practical, joyful living spaces. Our professional accreditations include membership of the Passive House Trust, AECB, and Scottish Government certification for energy compliance. Client testimonials highlight our ability to exceed expectations, as demonstrated by projects like the transformation of a ruined barn into a dream home. We offer free initial consultations to explore your vision and deliver designs that harmonise innovation, sustainability, and timeless elegance.
Services
New House Design
Building Conversions
Sustainable Architecture
Passivhaus Certification
Planning Applications
Energy Calculations
3D Visualisation
Historic Building Renovation
CAD Training
Contract Supervision
Details
- Year established: 1992
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in residential architecture and sustainable design.
- Our team are certified Passive House specialists with international expertise.
- We offer tailored design solutions for unique client requirements and challenging sites.
- Our projects have won multiple local authority awards and media recognition.
- We provide free initial consultations with no-obligation project assessments.
Associations and certifications
- Passive House Trust
- AECB
- SEDA
- Scottish Government Certifier of Design Part 6 (Energy)
What people say
Perfect embodiment of every need
Great idea for the larder
Warm and comfortable homes
Delight to the eye
Dream home achieved
Services
Passive House Design
Specialist design services for ultra-low energy buildings using the Passivhaus standard. We create thermally efficient homes with minimal environmental impact through advanced insulation, airtightness, and heat recovery systems. Our certified expertise ensures compliance with international sustainability benchmarks while maintaining aesthetic appeal and functional space planning.
Building Conversions
Expert conversion of historic and derelict structures into modern living spaces. We specialise in challenging projects like barn conversions, balancing preservation of architectural heritage with contemporary energy-efficient upgrades. Our approach maintains structural integrity while creating functional, light-filled homes that meet modern comfort standards.
3D Visualisation
Advanced 3D computer modelling to help clients visualise projects before construction. This service enables real-time design adjustments, ensuring client vision alignment with technical feasibility. We use digital mock-ups to explore spatial relationships, material choices, and lighting effects for more informed decision-making.
Planning Applications
Comprehensive support for planning permissions and listed building consents. We prepare detailed submissions, manage online applications, and track progress through approval processes. Our expertise in local authority requirements streamlines approvals for both contemporary new builds and sensitive historic building renovations across the UK.
Energy Calculations
Detailed thermal performance assessments including U-values, SAP ratings, and cold bridge calculations. These analyses ensure compliance with building regulations while optimising energy efficiency. We provide EPCs and energy strategies that reduce running costs without compromising design quality or occupant comfort.
People
Keith Renton
Principal Architect
BSc, B.Arch(Hons) ARB registered architect with 30 years' experience in residential design. Certified Passive House designer since 2011 and Scottish Government energy compliance certifier. Leads all design projects and client consultations.
Ruth Renton
Project Coordinator
BA(Hons) graduate with 30 years' involvement in architectural practice. Manages administrative operations, project coordination, and contributes to design consultations. Ensures smooth workflow between clients and design teams.
Questions
What architectural services do you specialise in?
We specialise in residential architecture including new builds, conversions, and extensions with particular expertise in Passivhaus-standard sustainable design and historic building renovations.
Do you work outside the Scottish Borders?
While based in the Scottish Borders, we undertake projects throughout Scotland, Northumberland, and across the UK for both private and commercial clients.
How do you incorporate sustainability into designs?
We use Passivhaus principles, thermal modelling, and energy calculations to create buildings that minimise energy consumption while maintaining comfort and aesthetic quality in all our projects.
Can you help with planning permission applications?
Yes, we manage full planning submissions including 3D visualisations, technical drawings, and liaison with local authorities to secure approvals for new builds and renovations.
What is your design process?
Our process includes free initial consultation, site survey, concept design with 3D modelling, planning applications, building warrant submissions, and on-site supervision through to project completion.
Do you offer initial consultations?
Yes, we provide free no-obligation initial consultations to discuss your project requirements and explore how we can help achieve your architectural vision.
Reviews (1)
Julie Kennedy
Aug 16, 2018
Report
Keith was chosen from 5 architects interviewed. We were given tours of his previous self builds and met with h8s customers. He is honest, diligent and can actually design and deliver projects that are beautiful and affordable. Our plot purchase and planning has been fraught with obstacles but Keith's solution focused approach has stopped us giving up. He and his wife Ruth have been positive and supportive throughout.
.
.
