Welcome to Architecture and Design Scotland
Designing for inclusive and accessible learning environments
Inspired by our work at Craighalbert Centre, the Scottish Centre for Children with Motor Impairments, we have developed a suite of digital resources which explore how design can help to create safe, accessible, and nurturing spaces for every pupil, regardless of their needs. Explore animated videos, user experience scenarios, spatial ideas, and key principles to understand how design can positively impact learning for children with or without Additional Support Needs (ASN).
Making better places for everyone
At Architecture and Design Scotland (A&DS) we believe that design has the power to bring people together and make better places for everyone. This belief comes from seeing first-hand how design can help resolve complex, and sometimes, conflicting issues. Design has a unique and vital role to play in transforming places and changing lives. We are here to make sure it plays that role to the full.
Why is place so important?
The relationship we have with the places we use and experience has a profound impact on our behaviour, our environment, and even our life chances. Knowing that, we work to ensure our places are designed from the very outset to enhance lives and strengthen communities. We call this the Place Principle.
Image credit: Miss Lydia Photography
Making the Place Principle an everyday reality
Experience tells us that a place is far better when the people who live, work and play there come together to help shape it. From sustainability and transport, to amenities and accessibility, the Place Principle encourages us all to think about all the things our communities need from the very beginning. Our corporate strategy sets out the way in which we can create, adapt and sustain our places, and establish the Place Principle as the ‘new normal’ throughout Scotland.
Main image credit: Miss Lydia Photography (2022)
News, blogs and events
Scottish government publishes review recommendations on the future of architecture policy delivery
Steve Malone appointed Director of Design
A&DS and RIAS Scottish Student Awards for Architecture 2025
Lessons learned from the second Key Agencies Group Shared Learning Event
Shared Learning Event on energy reporting and monitoring for our learning estate
