COMMERCIAL Architecture
Commercial architecture that respects what’s there and improves what’s next.
Specialists in existing buildings since 1996, GLM is one of Scotland’s most experienced architectural practices. From feasibility and concept design through to Listed Building Consent and handover, our architects, technologists and interior designers deliver buildings that work harder for your business, without losing the character that makes them worth keeping.
We are trusted by Fairtree Capital, St Andrew Boat Club, William Purves Funeral Directors, and more throughout Scotland and the north of England from offices in Edinburgh and Inverness.
Our Architecture EXPERTISE
From first sketch to final handover – architectural knowledge tailored to the realities of your building.
Feasibility & Concept Design
We can prepare concept designs both pre- and post-acquisition to help building owners or clients see what is possible from a design perspective, the statutory implications, and what the development will cost. This is a low-cost and low-risk stage when we can think out of the box. I like to tell our clients that we have done our job if they turn round and say “I’d never have thought of that”.
Full Architectural Service
As architects, we act as the project lead from inception through to completion, coordinating with other design team members as required. Given this lead position, we are best placed to be a client’s trusted advisor. With GLM leading, our clients can have as little or as much input into projects as they like or feel comfortable with.
Conservation & Listed Building Consent
As Conservation Accredited Architects, we understand how to repair, adapt and enhance historic buildings while protecting the character and significance that make them special. Our expertise in traditional construction and Listed Building Consent helps clients achieve sensitive, practical solutions while reducing planning and project risk.
Masterplanning
Masterplanning at GLM is the strategic planning of a site or estate as a whole, establishing how buildings, spaces, access, infrastructure and landscape can be developed in a coordinated way over time. We help clients test opportunities, constraints, costs and planning considerations early, creating a flexible framework that supports informed investment and phased development.
Principal Designer
Under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM), GLM can act as Principal Designer, planning, managing and coordinating health and safety during the pre-construction phase of projects involving more than one contractor. We work with the client, designers and Principal Contractor to identify, eliminate or control foreseeable risks and ensure relevant safety information is communicated throughout the project.
Interior Design & Specification
GLM provides interior design as an integral part of the architectural process, developing layouts, finishes, materials, lighting and bespoke details that respond to the building and the client’s requirements. We prepare coordinated specifications and schedules to give contractors clear information, support accurate tender pricing and ensure the design is delivered consistently on site.
Our Process
A clear, four-step path from first conversation to completed building – so you know who does what, when decisions are needed, and what happens next.
01. Brief
The most important question an architect can ask is “why”. Not just what you want built, but what the building needs to do for your organisation. We take time to understand how the space is used, who relies on it, and what success looks like to your board as well as your facilities team.
02. Design Concept
Design is where we show you we’ve listened. We aim for a concept that solves the problem you brought us and still makes you say “I’d never have thought of that”. It comes down to the specification and the details your staff and customers touch daily – and time invested here saves money on site.
03. Consent Preparation
Consent risk can stall a project before it starts, especially in listed buildings. We prepare and submit planning and Listed Building Consent applications ourselves, and we know what will be approved, what will be challenged, and how to present a scheme that passes.
04. Deliver
On site, the design is tested in reality. An open tender may return the lowest price, but turn-out cost is what matters – so we plan the procurement route, programme and risks around your priorities. We snag as work progresses rather than at the end, so the project finishes on a high.
Project Highlights
A selection of commercial architecture projects delivered for clients across Scotland.
John O’Groats
Working on behalf of a joint venture partnership between Natural Retreats and Heritage Great Britain, GLM re-engineered the masterplan for John O’Groats
Dunkeld House Hotel
GLM were appointed by Dunkeld House Hotel to remodel the building and add three bedroom suites, in turn enhancing their luxury hotel offering.
Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa
Adding to their collection of hotels in Perthshire, Fairtree Capital intructed GLM to take a masterplan exercise for Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa.
Meet Your Specialist
David Johnson
Managing Director & Conservation Accredited Architect · Edinburgh
David is a highly respected architect and designer, recognised for his technical expertise, attention to detail, and ability to translate clients’ aspirations into lasting, functional buildings. Passionate, approachable and dedicated, he works closely with clients and stakeholders to deliver innovative projects that meet both community and commercial needs. As Managing Director, David brings extensive experience across a wide range of sectors, including community-led developments and heritage regeneration projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we’re most often asked by clients commissioning commercial architectural services in Scotland.
All RIBA stages, including ongoing maintenance of buildings post-project.
Yes, we can handle all statutory consents, acting as Agent for our clients.
A feasibility study tests whether a project is viable before you commit significant money to it. It looks at what the building or site can accommodate, the planning and consent constraints, likely costs and programme, and the main risks. For most projects involving an existing building it is worth doing first, because it tells you early whether to proceed, change the brief or stop.
Yes, under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM), GLM can act as Principal Designer, planning, managing and coordinating health and safety during the pre-construction phase of projects involving more than one contractor.
Yes, we do. At GLM, masterplanning is the strategic planning of a site or estate as a whole, establishing how buildings, spaces, access, infrastructure and landscape can be developed in a coordinated way over time.
Discuss your Project today.
Speak to our architecture team about a feasibility study, concept design, Listed Building Consent application or masterplan – from any of our Scottish offices.
