Architecture and Design Scotland review: summary report

Ministerial Foreword

This year marks 20 years since Architecture and Design Scotland was established as a national champion for good architecture, design, placemaking and planning. Over this period much has changed, and the organisation has accomplished a great deal, helping to embed the benefits of good design across an array of issues and places.

This report sets out the process and recommendations of a review undertaken to ensure Architecture & Design Scotland remains fit for purpose in addressing the opportunities and challenges we face.

Scotland’s architecture is a national asset - a defining part of our identity and culture. It is and a central element of the places that shape how we live and a daily influence on our lives. Good architecture and design thrive within a culture that values innovation and harnesses creativity to get the very best out of our resources and investments. I believe that the recommendations in this Review report will place Architecture & Design Scotland in the best position to help create those conditions.

A key theme within the recommendations is the importance of collaboration and partnerships to grow our capacity and increase impact. I want to see these partnerships stretch across Scotland and beyond, advancing and expanding our collective creativity.

I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Chair, Board, and staff at Architecture & Design Scotland for their positive and collaborative approach throughout the review process. I also want to thank the members of Scotland’s architecture and design community, and all those who participated in the review to help shape this important work.

In times of challenge and complexity, creativity is more valuable than ever. Implementing the Review recommendations will help ensure that good design delivers the best outcomes for Scotland and support a vibrant new chapter in our architectural legacy.