John Robertson Architects (JRA), an international architecture practice which specialises in producing sustainable, and future-proof commercial, educational, and residential assets in legacy and historic buildings, has launched a studio in Edinburgh. 

The studio, located on George Street in the central part of the city, adds to JRA’s existing studios in London and Lodz, Poland.  It will lead on interior design projects, building upon new studio head Angela St Clair-Ford’s wide-ranging expertise in this sector. The studio will also support other JRA projects across the UK, especially those in locations outside Greater London, including in Birmingham, Manchester, and Scotland. 

JRA’s decision to open a studio in central Edinburgh follows St Clair-Ford’s relocation to Scotland from London. Prior to her move, St Clair-Ford worked on a number of high-profile projects including: the refurbishment of the Strand campus for King’s College London; Skanska’s HQ at 51 Moorgate; WeWork Spitalfields; x+why, Birmingham; & YUM! Brands’ UK HQ in Woking, Surrey.

While continuing to work on commercial refurb projects, St Clair-Ford will also build upon her higher education experience and apply it to opportunities in Scotland’s rapidly expanding higher education and associated PBSA (Purpose Built Student Accommodation) sectors.

Having joined JRA in 2011, St Clair-Ford’s focus has been on workplace consultancy and the fit-out of interiors for a range of commercial and educational occupiers. Her portfolio covers new-build schemes as well as the renovation of historic buildings, and she has experience of practising in both the UK and USA. She is supported by a growing team in Edinburgh, including Anna Rogowska, an Architectural Assistant, and is already actively recruiting to augment her team’s capabilities. 

Since its formation in 1993, JRA has designed and delivered buildings that have established the firm’s reputation as innovative architects who consistently realise client’s ambitions and resolve complex problems with purpose and flair. Guided by founder John Robertson, the practice is led by Festus Moffat, David Magyar and Smita Bhat, supported by an accomplished team of associate directors. Together, they have wide-ranging project experience in the UK, EMEA and international markets, as well as in masterplanning across conceptual and detailed design stages. 

JRA is currently undertaking commercial, higher education and residential projects in London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Edinburgh. JRA’s recent completed projects include the SKA Gold rated x+why Birmingham, the BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ and WiredScore ‘Platinum’ workspace Bloom Clerkenwell for HB Reavis, the prominent repositioning projects Bureau and The Ludgate, and the redevelopment and fit out of Skanska’s HQ at 51 Moorgate, which was awarded WELL ‘Platinum’ status.