Ethos
Sense of Place
We’ve worked in locations across Scotland and the UK, from central London to uninhabited islands in the Outer Hebrides. Each project and each design is built on the place in which it is situated, and responds to the environment, traditions, people, materials and culture of its context.
The practice has a strong record of delivering contemporary architecture in rural locations, drawing sensitively on the vernacular and material traditions of different communities and cultures to create considered, modern interventions that are at home in their surroundings. This has been reinforced by Iain’s work with Bothy Project and Bothy Stores, developing modular prototypes for off-grid living and rural hospitality offerings.
Our grounding in Edinburgh has also brought a wealth of experience with challenging urban sites and conservation projects. These range from modest extensions and new-build houses on highly constrained plots, to conversions and alterations of prominent listed buildings in the heart of the city, as well as in sensitive historic sites elsewhere around the country.
Creative Design
Engaging in positive, ambitious and creative forms of design has been a key principle behind Studio IMA’s work since its inception. The studio team, like the practice, is forward-looking, challenging preconceptions and conventions by bringing new ways of thinking and designing.
There are close and deep connections between artistic and architectural endeavour. We’re proud to have worked with and for a wide range of artists and craftspeople, and make the most of our relationships with other members of the creative community. Our studio space, housed within an old fishmongers in Portobello, plays host to our Counter/Culture series, where we provide a platform to exhibit the work of other designers, creatives, and craftspeople.
Iain co-founded Bothy Project in 2011 following an RSA Award as a programme to give artists the chance to live and work within the Scottish landscape. From humble beginnings designing and self-building the first Bothy at Inshriach, Bothy Project has grown into a successful arts charity, providing residency opportunities for over 400 artists and supporting a range of arts initiatives within the rural communities that support each bothy.
