Business Details
18 Years
experience
Sustainable Architects in Glasgow | John Gilbert Architects
John Gilbert Architects is a Scottish design studio dedicated to creating spaces that prioritise people and the planet. With a focus on sustainable architecture, conservation, and strategic planning, we deliver projects that are beautiful, efficient, and community-centric. Our team combines creativity, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of environmental responsibility to design buildings tailored to user needs. We specialise in retrofitting historic structures, developing innovative housing solutions like Passivhoos, and advancing performance-driven design through initiatives such as Hab-Lab.Accredited by RIBA, RIAS, and IHBC, we uphold rigorous standards in sustainable design and hold ISO certifications for quality, environmental, and health & safety management. Our work spans public and private sectors, with a strong emphasis on affordability, energy efficiency, and long-term community impact. Recognised through numerous awards, we remain committed to research, collaboration, and education to shape a more sustainable built environment.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Conservation & Retrofit
Strategy & Masterplan
Hab-Lab
Passivhoos
Details
- Year established: 2008
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of experience in sustainable architecture.
- Our ISO-certified processes ensure quality and environmental responsibility.
- Hab-Lab innovation optimises building performance for clients.
- We specialise in community-led, affordable housing projects.
- Award-winning expertise in retrofitting and conservation.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA Conservation
- RIAS Sustainable Design
- IHBC Conservation
- Passivhaus
- ISO 9001
- ISO 14001
- ISO 45001
- TrustMark
What people say
Highest quality energy-efficient design
Excellent sector knowledge
Innovative retrofit tools
First-class service
Robust, detailed designs
Services
Sustainable Architecture
We create buildings that balance aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility. Our approach prioritises energy efficiency, material sustainability, and user well-being. Projects include newbuilds and renovations tailored to client needs while meeting rigorous eco-standards like Passivhaus. This service benefits communities seeking affordable, long-lasting structures with minimal carbon footprints.
Conservation & Retrofit
Our team revitalises historic buildings through sensitive retrofitting, enhancing energy performance without compromising character. Services include structural assessments, thermal upgrades, and adaptive reuse. Clients gain cost-effective, future-ready spaces that preserve architectural heritage while meeting modern sustainability targets for reduced running costs and emissions.
Strategy & Masterplan
We develop long-term plans for town centres, housing estates, and regeneration sites. Expertise spans zoning, transport links, and community engagement to create functional, inclusive environments. This service supports local authorities and developers in achieving balanced growth aligned with social and environmental goals.
Hab-Lab
Hab-Lab measures and improves building efficiency using data-driven insights. Our specialists benchmark energy use, identify retrofit opportunities, and validate outcomes. Housing providers benefit from tailored strategies to enhance resident comfort, cut fuel poverty, and meet net-zero targets through evidence-based interventions.
Passivhoos
Passivhoos delivers certified Passivhaus-standard social housing optimised for Scotland's climate. These designs combine superior insulation, airtightness, and ventilation to achieve ultra-low energy consumption. Housing associations gain cost-effective, comfortable homes that align with government affordability and sustainability benchmarks.
People
Matt Bridgestock
Managing Director
Architect, town planner, and Passivhaus designer with RIAS sustainable design accreditation. Former chair of Scottish Ecological Design Association, specialising in strategic urban projects and quality management.
Chris Morgan
Director / Architect
Over 25 years' experience in sustainable design, certified in Passivhaus and Building Biology. Former SEDA chair, focusing on ecological construction methods and retrofit innovation.
Scott Abercrombie
Associate Director / Architect
Conservation expert with RIBA and IHBC accreditations. Leads BIM implementation and Tenement Toolbox development, championing traditional building preservation.
Barbara Lantschner
Associate Director / Building Performance Specialist
Specialises in retrofit performance analysis, employing data-driven methods to enhance building efficiency and resident comfort across housing portfolios.
John Gilbert
Conservation Consultant
Founder with RIAS conservation accreditation, author of The Tenement Handbook. Provides expert guidance on preserving Scotland's architectural heritage.
Questions
What areas do John Gilbert Architects operate in?
We work across Scotland with clients including housing associations, local authorities, and community groups on sustainable design and retrofit projects.
Are your buildings certified to sustainability standards?
Yes, we deliver Passivhaus-certified homes and hold ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 accreditations for quality, environmental, and safety management.
Can you assist with retrofitting historic buildings?
Our conservation team specialises in retrofitting listed structures while maintaining heritage integrity through solutions like the Tenement Toolbox.
What is the Hab-Lab service?
Hab-Lab benchmarks and improves building performance using data analysis to reduce energy costs and enhance comfort for housing providers.
How do you involve communities in projects?
We collaborate closely with residents and stakeholders through workshops and consultations to ensure designs meet local needs and aspirations.
What awards have you won?
We've received multiple accolades including Scottish Home Awards, RIBA recognitions, and sustainability prizes for innovative projects like Passivhoos.
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