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Richard Gibson Architects Richard Gibson Architects
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Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Architectural Services in Shetland
Richard Gibson Architects, established in 2022 as the successor to Richard Gibson Architects (founded in 1972), is a distinguished architectural practice rooted in the Shetland Islands. Our five-decade legacy has cultivated unparalleled expertise in designing buildings that harmonise with rural and island environments, addressing the unique challenges of Scotland's remote coastal regions. With a team of chartered architects and technicians, we offer comprehensive services spanning conceptual design, planning applications, and construction management, underpinned by a commitment to sustainability and innovation. Our practice holds accreditations from leading professional bodies including RIBA and RIAS, and we have pioneered Passivhaus design principles in Shetland since 2024.

Through decades of local experience, we deliver context-sensitive solutions that balance aesthetic vision with practical durability, having completed award-winning projects ranging from social housing to historic building renovations. Our transparent fee structure and collaborative approach ensure clients receive tailored support from initial concept to project completion. Recognised nationally through multiple architectural awards, we maintain a strong focus on energy-efficient design to meet evolving environmental regulations while preserving regional character.
Services
Architectural Design Sustainable Architecture Passivhaus Certification Historic Building Renovation Commercial Development Residential Projects Urban Planning Energy Efficiency Consultancy Project Management Feasibility Studies
Details
  • Year established: 1972
Highlights and features
  • We offer 50 years' experience in Shetland's challenging coastal climate
  • Our team includes a certified Passivhaus Designer for energy-efficient buildings
  • We maintain transparent fee structures with tailored service levels
  • Award-winning practice with 14 major architectural awards since 2003
  • We provide end-to-end project management from concept to completion
Associations and certifications
  • ARB
  • RIAS
  • RIBA
  • SEDA
What people say
Excellent knowledge Sympathetic designs Hands-on approach Understand local conditions First class service
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Services
Architectural Design
We provide comprehensive architectural design services for new buildings and renovations, specialising in climate-responsive solutions for Scotland's remote islands. Our team creates functional spaces that balance aesthetic vision with practical durability, ensuring compliance with planning regulations and building standards. With expertise in both traditional and modern construction methods, we deliver context-sensitive designs that enhance local environments.
Sustainable Architecture
Our sustainable architecture services focus on energy-efficient design and low-carbon construction methods tailored to Shetland's harsh climate. We incorporate Passivhaus principles and renewable energy solutions while maintaining regional architectural character. The practice has an in-house certified Passivhaus Designer and uses dedicated PHPP software to optimise thermal performance and reduce environmental impact in both new builds and renovations.
Historic Building Renovation
We specialise in sensitive renovations of listed buildings and historic structures, combining modern requirements with traditional construction techniques. Our approach preserves architectural integrity while improving functionality and energy efficiency. The practice has completed multiple award-winning heritage projects, including the restoration of Shetland's iconic 'haa' houses and the adaptive reuse of historic public buildings.
Project Management
Our end-to-end project management services cover all stages from initial concept to site completion. We coordinate with contractors, handle planning applications, and provide regular progress updates to ensure projects stay on schedule and within budget. With extensive local contractor knowledge, we deliver seamless project execution while maintaining strict quality control throughout the construction process.
Feasibility Studies
We conduct detailed feasibility studies to evaluate project viability, considering site constraints, budget requirements, and regulatory factors. Our assessments include cost projections, planning considerations, and design options to help clients make informed decisions. Using local market data and 50 years' experience, we provide realistic evaluations of what can be achieved within specific parameters and locations.
People
Adrian Wishart
Architect & Practice Director
Director since 2019 and co-director from 2011, Adrian studied architecture in Aberdeen and worked in Edinburgh before returning to his native Shetland. He has led numerous award-winning projects including Grdians social housing development and brings extensive experience in island architecture and sustainable design.
Joe Serrano
Architect & Passivhaus Designer
A chartered architect with Passivhaus Designer accreditation since 2024, Joe specialises in low-carbon design. Originally from Portugal, he contributes international experience while focusing on adapting energy-efficient principles to Shetland's unique conditions, supporting the practice's leadership in sustainable island architecture.
Mark Dennis
Architectural Technician
With two decades of experience in commercial, industrial, and domestic projects, Mark brings technical expertise from both civilian and military construction sectors. His background includes complex projects requiring precise detailing and coordination, enhancing the practice's capability in diverse building types.
Lynette Smith
Architectural Office Administrator
Lynette manages practice operations and project administration, applying business expertise from two successful ventures. Her organisational skills ensure smooth project delivery by coordinating financial and operational aspects, allowing technical staff to focus on design excellence.
Flora Quinnell
Architectural Student
A RIBA Part 1 student gaining practical experience through placements, Flora assists with various projects while developing expertise in low-carbon design. Her academic focus on sustainable architecture complements the practice's commitment to environmental innovation.
Questions
What architectural services do you offer?
We provide full architectural services including design, planning applications, construction management, feasibility studies, and specialist Passivhaus consultancy for residential, commercial, and public sector projects.
Do you work outside Shetland?
Yes, while based in Shetland, we undertake projects in Orkney, the Outer Hebrides, and Scottish mainland, applying our expertise in remote island architecture to similar environments.
What is your approach to sustainable design?
We integrate Passivhaus principles and energy-efficient construction methods tailored to Scotland's climate, with a certified Passivhaus Designer in our team and dedicated software for thermal performance optimisation.
How do you handle listed building renovations?
Our heritage projects combine modern requirements with traditional techniques, preserving architectural integrity while improving functionality and energy efficiency through sensitive, award-winning approaches.
What project sizes do you handle?
We work on projects of all scales from small residential extensions to large housing developments, adapting our expertise to each project's specific requirements and budget.
How are your fees structured?
Our transparent fees are based on required service levels and project complexity, with clear explanations of costs at each stage to ensure no unexpected expenses for clients.