The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) has announced the opening of the 2013 RIAS Awards.

This year RIAS has again teamed up with Forestry Commission Scotland and Wood for Good, as well as with Historic Scotland and Zero Waste Scotland.

Sholto Humphries, president of RIAS, said: "The expansion of the RIAS Awards in only their second year firmly establishes them as by far the most important awards for architecture and the built environment in Scotland. We are absolutely delighted that four major Scottish organisations have lent their support to our special category awards. Given our well established partnership with the RIBA this represents a tremendous opportunity for all architects with work in Scotland."


John Kissock, chairman of Wood for Good, said: "This is our second year of support for the RIAS Awards. It is an excellent way of showcasing the exciting work that is happening in Scotland using timber, and also the very strong credentials wood has as a mainstream construction material."

Ian Walford, Historic Scotland’s acting chief executive, said: "This new award celebrates the innovative and sustainable ways in which Scotland’s traditional buildings are being conserved and can contribute to the country’s climate change targets. We are delighted to be highlighting the good practice being employed in the heritage sector to re-use and refurbish our older buildings."

Iain Gulland, director, Zero Waste Scotland, added: "Embedding resource efficient principles in the construction industry can help to realise significant cost savings and reduce impact on the environment. We are delighted to be sponsoring the Resource Efficiency Award, which recognises those businesses leading the way in managing the value of their resources."

Shortlisting will take place in March. The winners will be announced at a Gala Dinner at the Edinburgh Grosvenor Hilton on Wednesday 12 June.

(IT)