We are Architecture and Design Scotland

A Scotland where the power of design improves lives.

To grow Scotland’s architecture sector.

By being the centre of excellence for architecture and design in Scotland, we lead by example, promote the benefits of good design, support the sector and seek strategic change.

We were established by the Scottish Government as an executive Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB) in 2005 to provide leadership on how Scotland’s places are designed, planned, delivered and sustained. 

In 2025, the Scottish Government published a summary of its 2024 review into the delivery of architecture policy in Scotland. The review was commissioned to ensure that Scotland’s approach to architecture and the built environment remains relevant, effective, and aligned with national priorities. Shared with Architecture and Design Scotland (A&DS) in September 2024, the findings recognise the important role the organisation has played in supporting place-based approaches and delivering design advice across Scotland. 

Fast forward to 2026, we are refocusing our work on architecture and design, positioning the organisation as a centre for excellence that supports sector-wide development through collaboration, insight, and innovation. This reshaped focus will allow us to promote the value of good design in addressing the challenges facing Scotland’s places today – from climate change, housing and health, to learning and digital transformation.

• Generous: we are generous with our time, ideas and experience
• Open: we are open and approachable
• Accountable: we keep the promises that we make and do our work with integrity
• Inquisitive: we are curious and seek creative solutions
• Supportive: we support people and organisations to be their best