Four talented architecture students from Scotland have been recognized with prestigious awards from Architecture and Design Scotland (A&DS) and the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) for their innovative approaches to addressing the climate crisis, housing challenges, and urban sprawl. The winners were selected from an impressive pool of 70 submissions from Scotland's five leading architecture schools.
Eilidh McGuigan from the University of Strathclyde earned recognition for her outstanding work focused on designing solutions for our changing climate. Her project was praised by judges for its quiet impact, cultural sensitivity, and exemplary delivery of sustainable design principles that address one of the most pressing challenges of our time.
Emelie Christina Fraser from the prestigious Mackintosh School of Architecture achieved remarkable success by winning two major awards. After already securing the 3DReid Student Award, Fraser went on to claim the Rowand Anderson Silver Medal for best fifth-year student with her project "O Parque Dos Mortos." This thoughtful work explored how architects can approach the sensitive topics of memory and burial in communities. Additionally, Fraser received the Andy MacMillan drawing award for her spiritual and poetic concept work that impressed judges with its sophisticated and stunning visual language.
Hannah Bendon from the Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture was honored as the best third-year student for her project "Foraged Construction." The judges praised her work as a well-researched and future-focused proposal that presents a phased strategy for sustainable development. Her approach was particularly noted for being grounded in material reuse, community involvement, and skill-building initiatives that could transform how we approach construction.
Struan Morrison from the University of Strathclyde secured the urban design award for his project "Intencity." The work caught the judges' attention as a truly coherent and technically detailed vision that positions sustainability as a social responsibility while creatively activating existing urban spaces. His innovative approach demonstrated how architects can work within current city frameworks to create positive change.
RIAS President Karen Anderson emphasized the importance of these awards in nurturing future architectural talent. "The A&DS and RIAS Scottish Student Awards for Architecture are a vital celebration of emerging talent and fresh thinking in our profession," Anderson stated. "They offer a platform for students to share bold ideas and challenge conventional approaches, reminding us of the transformative power of architecture."
Anderson further explained that these awards serve a broader purpose beyond individual recognition. "By showcasing student work, we not only recognize individual excellence—we also reaffirm our collective commitment to nurturing the next generation of architects who will shape a more equitable, sustainable and imaginative built environment," she said. The awards demonstrate Scotland's commitment to fostering innovative architectural thinking that addresses contemporary global challenges through creative and practical solutions.
