Our People
We are a collective of chartered building surveyors, architects and project managers, who specialise in work on existing buildings and stand as their champions.
natalie lau
Part II Architectural Assistant
BA (Hons) MArch
Natalie joined the team in 2023 as a Part II Architectural Assistant upon graduating from Newcastle University with a Master of Architecture. Following her thesis project that explored the application of adaptive reuse, she now concentrates on gaining practical experience in conservation.
With experiences in an array of civic and interior projects, Natalie is driven to utilise her deep passion to create practical and artful spaces that engage with the community.
Outside of work, Natalie continues her creative flow in contemporary dancing and embroidery, while capturing scenic views of Scotland on hikes.
Martha Halliday-Lang
Part II Architectural Assistant
MA (Hons) DipArch
Martha joined the GLM team in Summer 2024 as a Part II Architectural Assistant. She graduated from the University of Edinburgh in 2019 and gained experience working on small-scale residential projects before completing her studies in 2023 from the Glasgow School of Art. Martha’s final thesis project explored the re-use of existing buildings for community regeneration.
Martha is passionate about people. She wants the spaces she designs to encourage meaningful connection, both socially, historically, and architecturally. She is currently working on the design of a distillery on the west coast of Scotland.
Outside of work, Martha enjoys spending time with friends in the Scottish landscape, hiking, walking and wild swimming – as well as learning to play the fiddle!
angus lawrie
Building Surveyor
BSc (Hons)
Angus joined GLM in September 2021 as Assistant Building Surveyor to satisfy the placement element of his third year studying Building Surveying at Edinburgh Napier University. After a very successful year working with GLM, Angus is continuing working part-time whilst undertaking his fourth year studies.
Angus brings with him enthusiasm and passion for the built environment alongside a desire to gain the practical experience to complement his knowledge built up at university. When not working with the team, Angus plays rugby for Edinburgh Accies and enjoys getting out and about in rural Scotland.
Helen Beresford
Senior Architectural Technologist
BSc (Hons) MArch MSc (Hons)
Helen Beresford
Senior Architectural Technologist
BSc (Hons) MArch MSc (Hons)
Favourite Project:
Ackergill Tower
As a passionate and gifted Technologist, Helen brings to GLM a wealth of experience at the sharp end of design having helped deliver projects across the UK. With a particular interest in heritage buildings and focussing on initial surveys and intricate and sensitive detailing, Helen fits right in with the team.
Helen completed a Masters in Architectural Conservation in 2021, gaining accreditation from the Institute of Historic Building Conservation. Her thesis examined Collective Conservation of Theatres in Edinburgh, in which she earned a distinction and the ESALA architectural conservation prize. Prior to this, she blended her studies with gaining experience in Architecture projects in both city and country scapes.
Helen describes herself as a Flâneur, enjoying exploring vibrant cities and meeting the people that inhabit them.
bradley mutter
Senior Architectural Technologist
BSc (Hons) MCIAT
bradley mutter
Senior Architectural Technologist
BSc (Hons) MCIAT
Favourite Project:
Seton Place
Brad joined GLM in the summer of 2021 as an Architectural Technologist and has since been promoted to Senior Architectural Technologist.
In this time, Brad has also gained his professional qualification and qualified as a Chartered Architectural Technologist (MCIAT).
Brad brings a wealth of experience in the detailing and implementation of modern construction, with an interest in modular design and design detailing. He particularly enjoys turning creative sketches into reality through well thought through solutions that keeps the essence of the concept design and ensuring it stands the test of time . Brad is passionate about technical design and is always keen to learn about and put forward new methods of construction.
When not working on projects Brad can often by found hiking Munros and camping in his TentBox!
ADELAIDE GILMOUR
PART II ARCHITECTURAL ASSISTANT
BSc (Hons) MArch
ADELAIDE GILMOUR
PART II ARCHITECTURAL ASSISTANT
BSc (Hons) MArch
Favourite Project:
Highland Lodge - Loch Rannoch
Adelaide is a Part II Architectural Assistant, and joined GLM in 2023. She graduated from University of Strathclyde in 2021 with an MArch in Advanced Architectural Design, and has since gained experience of large-scale multi-disciplinary projects and small-scale residential projects.
Prior to studying Architecture, Adelaide completed an HND in interior design and regularly brings this insight into her work, considering how architectural elements will affect the interior of a project. Overarchingly she is driven to create design that resonates.
Adelaide is a creative by nature, and enjoys 35mm film photography, sketching and jewellery design as well as running, hill walking and travelling.
octavius turner
Graduate Building Surveyor
BSc (Hons) MSc (Hons)
octavius turner
Graduate Building Surveyor
BSc (Hons) MSc (Hons)
Favourite Project:
The Croft
Octavius left school at 16 to study stonemasonry and sculpting, he then worked producing ornate architectural stone mouldings and sculptures for Cliveden Conservation – a renowned conservation firm. Following encouragement to undertake further study, Octavius completed a degree in Conservation of Cultural Heritage at the University of Lincoln and a further masters degree in Building Conservation at the University of Bath.
In 2023, Octavius joined the Building Surveying team at GLM. He has a wealth of practical experience which he will apply to his role and APC. When not working Octavius can be found playing rugby and socialising!
zinnie denby-mann
Assistant Building Surveyor
BA (Hons) MA MSc IHBC
Zinnie joined GLM in the summer of 2024 from Historic England, bringing both a passion for historic buildings and landscapes and a wealth of knowledge and experience.
Previous roles in building conservation, planning and grants, as well as Masters degrees in Building Surveying and Conservation of the Historic Environment and a BA in Historical Archaeology give Zinnie a wide ranging knowledge. She particularly enjoys the quirks, challenges and surprises that old buildings present and the beauty of traditional materials.
Zinnie is a full member of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) and volunteers on their Scotland branch committee.
Outside of work Zinnie enjoys visiting historic buildings, running, hillwalking, gardening and collecting antiques.
Gerard Smith
Director
Dip BS MRICS
Having spent much of his career working across Scotland for Ryden, Gerry joined GLM in 2021 to establish their Glasgow-based business with a key focus on project management and commercial building surveying including dilapidations, due diligence and retrofit of commercial spaces.
Gerry’s particular expertise includes project management, pre-acquisition building surveys; condition surveys; and dilapidations instructions for all types of commercial property. Additionally, advising clients in aspects of planned maintenance, fabric repairs, construction and portfolio management.
Gerry joining GLM is a reunion of sorts having worked with David Gibbon at Povall Worthington back in the late 1980’s. When not advising clients or out on survey, Gerry can often be found on the golf course and is always up for a round!
taylor davison
Architectural Technologist
BSc (Hons) MSc MCIAT
taylor davison
Architectural Technologist
BSc (Hons) MSc MCIAT
Favourite Project:
Fingask Castle
Joining the Architectural Technologist team in October 2022 - Taylor has a passion for architectural conservation and historic buildings. This places her at home at GLM!
Taylor studied at Edinburgh Napier University and graduated as an Architectural Technologist, she then went onto follow her passion for conservation by undertaking an MSc Architectural Conservation at the University of Edinburgh. Since then, she has gained experience on a variety of projects involving historic buildings and their reuse.
Outside of work Taylor enjoys reading, photography and drone flying - we look forward to getting some of her shots on our social media!
Doug lawson
Director
FRICS
Following a period of 14 years overseas, Doug Lawson returns to the Practice he co-founded in 1996. A Chartered Building Surveyor, Doug has a passion for property development and asset maximisation, along with high-end residential refurbishments. He is people-centric and ultimately strives to create strong relationships with his Team, Clients and contacts.
Working overseas in various senior Project Management roles, Doug’s strong leadership and natural ability to manage Stakeholders collaboratively, backed by years of technical experience, saw him deliver a variety of mixed-use developments during his 8 years with Australia’s largest developer of master-planned communities, including seniors’ living and medium-density residential.
Doug is able to give Clients assurance and lead projects to a successful outcome in a calm, measured and thorough manner.
David Gibbon
Director
MRICS MCABE
Forming the first chartered building surveying practice in Edinburgh in 1985, 11 years later David led GLM to independence with the office reflecting David's lateral thinking, interest and enthusiasm for design and conservation.
With over 45 years of experience in property and construction, and being one of only a handful of conservation accredited Building Surveyors in Scotland, David brings a wealth of knowledge, expertise and inspiration to clients and the whole GLM team.
David always has at least one campaign on the go. Currently he is working with others in a concerted effort to improve the arrangements for the maintenance and repair of buildings in common ownership in Scotland. After 4 years of campaigning this topic is beginning to attract the attention of politicians of all parties in Scotland.
Lilli marshall
Marketing Assistant
MA (Hons)
Lilli joined the team in 2021 having graduated from University of Edinburgh with a first in Business Management. Having been raised near Tain, Lilli brings a connection between two of the key GLM locations. Her warm outgoing personality, direct style and passion for quality combine to influence the buoyancy of the team and support us in reaching out to clients, past present and future.
Working with GLM’s experienced team of architects, building surveyors and project managers, Lilli’s main task is that of communication: ensuring that GLM’s vision and services are communicated in a clear, consistent and attractive form. Further, she brings experience of working in luxury hospitality to GLM's team environment to uphold our focus on a high-quality service.
Out of hours Lilli can usually be found making the most of the outdoors, she enjoys wild swimming and ticking off the Munros.
derek mcdonald
Associate Director | Architect
BSc (Hons) DipArch ARB
derek mcdonald
Associate Director | Architect
BSc (Hons) DipArch ARB
Favourite Project:
Seton Place
Derek joined the GLM team in Summer 2023, following a period running his own architecture practice. He brings a wealth of experience having completed a number of award winning buildings across Scotland focused on the renovation and adaptation of listed buildings. This ranges from contemporary additions to residential properties, to leisure, tourism and performance spaces.
Derek is responsible for mentoring and training the Part I & II architectural assistants at GLM developing and nurturing our next generation of talented designers. He maintains a relationship with Edinburgh University’s Architecture department (ESALA) as a Senior Tutor teaching part time across design courses in Architecture, Interior Design and Landscape Architecture.
rebecca courts
Graduate Apprentice Building Surveyor
rebecca courts
Graduate Apprentice Building Surveyor
Favourite Project:
Loch an Eilein Cottage
Rebecca joined GLM in 2023 to undertake a Graduate Apprenticeship in Building Surveying. Rebecca was passionate about undertaking an apprenticeship as she realised there would be real benefit from blending working with block release study at Edinburgh Napier. This will allow her to pursue her degree whilst also gaining valuable hands-on experience.
Rebecca enjoys a challenge and will take her role and learning in her stride. A native of the Cairngorms, Rebecca enjoys swimming, skiing, hockey and shinty – she has some impressive injuries from all of these activities! Whenever home in the Cairngorms, Rebecca can be found walking her Labrador Isla!
David Johnson
Director
BA (Hons) BArch RIAS RIBA
David Johnson
Director
BA (Hons) BArch RIAS RIBA
Favourite Project:
Morridgehall Cottage
David joined GLM soon after it was founded as a graduate from the University of Liverpool School of Architecture, and subsequently qualified. He has matured to become one of the most experienced Scottish architects in the adaptation and reuse of existing buildings and especially on high end residential projects.
Calm, unflappable, technically knowledgeable and having a deep understanding of the architecture of the past and present, David is an accomplished designer who maintains the highest of standards. Although he has a strongly developed sense of design and an unwavering eye for what looks right, David is the opposite of a domineering architect. He will advise and lead when required but is always respectful of the client’s needs and ambitions.
He creates buildings that are open, warm and well-proportioned. Dedicated, trustworthy, passionate and unassuming, David gets things done and forms a strong bond of understanding and loyalty with clients.
shirley park murray
PA to the Directors
Shirley is a familiar face to GLM, she rejoined the firm in 2022 as the PA to the Directors. With a background as an experienced office manager and PA, Shirley's management of outlook and calendar are truly unrivalled. She has worked in a diverse range of industries, thus, her skills and connections are a true asset to the team.
Beyond her main role supporting the directors, Shirley is passionate about wellbeing and mental health in the workplace. She has recently undertaken a Level 7 Wellbeing and Resilience Programme.
Shirley admits she is a complete foodie, she loves trying new restaurants and also growing her own vegetables at home. Shirley is lucky to live in a semi-rural area with lots of beautiful walks surrounding, this is perfect for walks with her crazy cockapoo Finn!
Neil Mcallister
Associate Director | Architect
BSc MSc RIAS RIBA
Neil Mcallister
Associate Director | Architect
BSc MSc RIAS RIBA
Favourite Project:
St Comghan's Chapel
Neil is GLM’s champion of design. His award-winning John O’Groats Inn and Kilchoan Chapel demonstrate his range and adaptability although they represent just a tiny fraction of his highly creative output. He combines a deep knowledge, love, and understanding of old buildings with a flair for creative new architecture.
After gaining a degree in architecture he went on to acquire an MSc in Architectural Conservation from Edinburgh College of Art. Neil combines a creative and a highly logical mind. He can quickly grasp the essence of a client’s objectives and is always striving to create something of beauty whatever the brief and budget.
Neil represents Scotland on the committee for the Ecclesiastical Architects & Surveyors Association (EASA) celebrating religious buildings across the UK.
Neil's curiosity invariably takes him to interesting places with unique and diverse architectural features.
jaime alberdi
Project Architect
MSc RIAS RIBA COAM
jaime alberdi
Project Architect
MSc RIAS RIBA COAM
Favourite Project:
Morridgehall Cottage
Jaime joined GLM in 2021, with over 10 years of broad experience in construction management, conservation and design. He has worked on a variety of projects within Scotland, including surveying and adaptation of listed buildings for restoration, and refurbishment and extensions of residential properties.
Jaime has a passion for conservation which saw him study an MSc Architectural Conservation at the University of Edinburgh, he has been involved with the Architectural Heritage Society of Scotland (AHSS) assessing planning applications for listed buildings and conservation area consents. Early in his career Jaime worked as the Principal Architect in restoring the 17th Century Monastery of Comendadoras of Santiago in Madrid.
Originally a Spanish Native, Jaime now lives in Edinburgh with his wife and child. He enjoys playing basketball, cooking and exploring Scotland.
Ian McKee
Managing Director
BSc (Hons) FRICS FCABE
Ian McKee
Managing Director
BSc (Hons) FRICS FCABE
Favourite Project:
John O' Groats Regeneration
Ian was one of the founders of the practice in 1995 and is its managing director. In 2016 he was the chairman of the RICS in Scotland.
Ian is a chartered building surveyor with a first class academic background and a keen eye for design. He is therefore proud to lead a team of architects and building surveyors. His interests are wide ranging from the technical to the strategic. Ian is well versed in the full range of the profession having performed the full range of building surveying duties in the course of his career including project management, major dilapidations claims, building condition surveys, building refurbishment and property management. He has a particular interest and specialism in the hotel and leisure sectors.
Whenever he can Ian escapes to the countryside on his mountain bike or cycling the mountain passes of Mallorca.
Ailsa Innes
Part II Architectural Assistant
BArch (Hons) DipArch
Ailsa joined GLM in 2021 to complete her Part I placement from the Glasgow School of Art, MacKintosh School of Architecture. Since then, she returned to university and achieved her Bachelor of Architecture and Diploma in Architecture, all whilst working part-time for GLM.
Ailsa is now back with GLM full-time as a Part II Architectural Assistant, working on a variety of projects including an Edinburgh Aparthotel and residential properties in NW Highlands. She has a diverse skillset and applies this to the design of buildings in different contexts. Ailsa’s final year design thesis was centred around revitalising a disused stone quarry. She is passionate to continue expanding her knowledge of innovative ways to use our natural materials to enhance our existing built environment.
Outside of work Ailsa enjoys travelling and exploring new places both in Scotland and further afield.
Finn Macmillan
Graduate Building Surveyor
BSc (Hons) MA (Hons)
Finn Macmillan
Graduate Building Surveyor
BSc (Hons) MA (Hons)
Favourite Project:
Fingask Castle
Finn joined GLM for the summer of 2021 and has continued his role with GLM post-graduation from Building Surveying at Edinburgh Napier University. Finn brings a broad educational background to his role at GLM having worked with Historic Environment Scotland, as a Stonemason on St Mary’s Cathedral (amongst others), and a First Class degree in Architectural History from Edinburgh University.
Along with an insightful and ongoing understanding of sustainability issues, Finn brings all of this along with infectious enthusiasm to his work.
Clients can be confident in Finn's clear and thorough approach and able communication, which has led to a string of successful projects.
Susana Navarro
Bookkeeper
BSc
Susana, a Spanish native, has been working and living in Scotland for over 10 years. With a degree in Business Management and Administration obtained in Madrid, 1999, she has over 20 years of experience in bookkeeping, accounting and financial management. Susana's professional experience has been gained working in a variety of environments, from small to large firms.
Outside of work Susana is passionate about gardening, plants and growing, she recently completed a Bachelors degree in Horticulture from SRUC. Susana also loves to spend her free time reading, cooking, hiking, identifying plants and birdwatching in Scotland's countryside.