John Gilbert Architects has announced the retirement of John Gilbert at the end of August 2019.

John established the practice in 1992 after the publication of The Tenement Handbook. He built the practice up to be renowned for robust sustainable design, thoughtful conservation and a commitment to delivering quality design to everyone.

John has worked with many housing associations and communities in the West of Scotland, improving housing through new, low energy construction, refurbishment and careful consideration of maintenance. His work has always been about getting the most out of tight projects, robust details and giving buildings a long life. His long term interest in tenements, authoring The Tenement Handbook and Under One Roof website have had a significant impact on the built environment across Scotland’s towns and cities.


John was awarded an honorary Doctorate by Stirling University in 2010 for services to Scottish housing. He is a fellow of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland and attained advanced accreditation in both Conservation and Sustainable Design.

In 2012, John instigated a succession plan for the practice and since then has worked alongside the new directors, to train younger staff and impart his decades of knowledge.

In his retirement, he will continue to work with John Gilbert Architects on a consultancy basis, volunteer for the Leith Theatre Trust and also to act as a Director of the Vivarium Trust.