Regardless of scale, every plan or project needs to have a strategic purpose – why is it being considered, how will it perform, what is its function and context, what are the benefits of doing it? This is as relevant for a regional plan as for a town centre or small civic space. Developing appropriate strategies is a key part of our work on every project.

Developing positive ideas for change through working with residential, business and institutional communities is central to our work. We approach our work with distinct principles and methods but without preconceived ideas of outcomes. Our work in Glasgow, across Northern Ireland and in many other places embodies this.

Every city, town or village has a network of civic assets that should be cherished, improved and sometimes re-invented. These might range from public buildings, parks, transport nodes or civic spaces to bus stops and benches. We can help communities to develop networks of these riches into catalysts for change.

Industry and renewables are critical components of Scotland’s future. We have worked recently with public agencies and the private sector on practical projects for the future, including a renewables pier development framework at Stromness, a proposed O+M base at Buckie and a new industry park at Dalgety Bay.

We have worked on alternative approaches to street design since 2004 in Renfrew town centre. With the Scottish Government’s Designing Streets advice, many Councils and communities are keen to change the way streets are used while others are hesitant. Our work in Kirkwall, Leven and Inverness represents positive change.

We work to make the most of heritage assets, especially through Townscape Heritage projects most recently in Stranraer, Kirkwall, Fraserburgh and Inverness. We look particularly at the street design aspects of this work, providing a more comfortable pedestrian environment and a better setting for important buildings.