Architect Robin Livingstone to lead GSA and HES collaborative research project

The award is for a practice-based inquiry into designing with heritage materials for sustainable, circular futures.

Working with Dr Gina Wall of The Glasgow School of Art and Graham Briggs of Historic Environment Scotland, the role will explore the creative use of vernacular materials in innovative, contemporary architecture for rural and island environments, embedding architectural practice, fieldwork, archival research, circular and regenerative design theory, hands-on making, and live testing materials to explore future uses for a range of hyperlocal, traditional building materials.

Drawing on specialist material knowledge from the heritage sector, the project will strive to make a unique contribution to the regenerative net zero architecture of the future.

Having co-founded Fraser/Livingstone Architects in 2019 with Malcolm Fraser, Robin has over 20 years of experience in practice, working on the delivery of a diverse range of award-winning projects in the residential, community, and arts sectors across existing, heritage buildings and new build projects. The work of the practice advocates for progressive forms of building through the use of innovative, natural, breathable materials based on traditional construction principles to deliver healthier building fabrics as a critical response to the climate emergency.

The interdisciplinary, practice-based nature of the post provides a significant opportunity to build on existing initiatives by The Glasgow School of Art and Historic Environment Scotland and complement the innovative material research work Fraser/Livingstone Architects leads in practice.

It will aspire to deliver impactful research and activism to make a distinct contribution to knowledge in the field of contemporary architecture and the built heritage environment.

Dr Gina Wall, programme director GSA H&I, said: “It is a delight to be working with Robin, we are very fortunate to have a PhD candidate of his professional calibre on this project, and the research has the potential to positively impact contemporary architectural practice in Scotland’s rural communities.

“It is also a privilege to be partnered with HES, and Graham Briggs’ expertise on traditional building materials will be instrumental for the research. I also wish to thank SGSAH for their vision in funding this exciting and timely research opportunity.”

Graham Briggs, project manager at Historic Environment Scotland, said: “Scotland’s historic environment is deeply rooted in the use of local materials, traditional skills, and accumulated knowledge. However, over the past century, a significant disconnect has emerged between these traditional practices and modern construction approaches.

“This research aims to bridge that gap by employing a research-by-design methodology, reconnecting historical expertise with contemporary and future applications. The PhD will explore how traditional materials can play a vital role in Scotland’s transition to net zero, demonstrating their potential to reduce environmental impact using traditional, hyper-local materials. The project seeks to create a clear pathway for integrating these materials into modern practice, making it easier for industry to harness Scotland’s wealth of traditional resources.

“We are delighted that Robin Livingstone, an experienced architect and director of a thriving practice, has chosen to undertake this project. His extensive practical experience will bring invaluable insight, ensuring that the research delivers both academic rigour and real-world impact.”