Simpson & Brown

09/09/2026

Simpson & Brown is currently working on a permanent extension to Dumfries House on behalf of The King’s Foundation. The new hall will replace a large temporary marquee previously used to host weddings, conferences, and private events held at the estate.

Designed by the Adam brothers and built in the 1750s as a residence for the 5th Earl of Dumfries, the house and its historic content, including a world-significant collection of Chippendale furniture, were saved for the nation in 2007 by King Charles III (then Prince of Wales). Today, the house and surrounding estate serve as the headquarters for The King’s Foundation.

The proposed scheme has been sensitively designed to align with the building’s classical proportions, creating a voluminous, light-filled venue to support the long-term financial sustainability of the estate. Inside, the interior character reflects a rigorous analysis of the estate’s original mouldings and carved details, positioning the new space naturally within Dumfries House’s architectural hierarchy and history of alterations. Externally, the design features a sheltered formal courtyard to the north, connecting the hall to the main house, and a discreet service yard with a new biomass boiler house lies to the east.

Construction is currently underway, with completion scheduled for 2027.

06/08/2026

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Practice Manager to join Simpson & Brown.

We are looking for an experienced individual to coordinate and manage all office and premises duties, ensuring the practice works efficiently. The role is integral to the day-to-day upkeep, smooth running, and maintenance of the office.

Link in stories.

05/08/2026

05/08/2026

Simpson & Brown has been shortlisted as Creative Conservation Architect of the Year in the Building Design. Architect of the Year Awards. We are delighted to see our imaginative approach to heritage buildings recognised by the awards.

19/05/2026

We’re excited to once again be attending the (SLE) Annual Conference in Edinburgh.

Since joining the organisation, we’ve attended a number of their fantastic events. They consistently provide an inspiring insight into both the opportunities and the challenges shaping the future of rural Scotland.

A highlight for us earlier this year was hosting a ‘Walk and Talk’ event at Asknish House in Argyll. Alongside the owner, we took a group of SLE members around the Georgian property, showcasing how it was transformed from a derelict building into an environmentally sustainable family home.

We’re looking forward to catching up with familiar faces and diving into today’s discussions. If you’re attending, come say hello!

18/05/2026

While carrying out research at the archives, our Heritage Consultancy Team found this characterful portrait scribbled on the margin of a large 1914 drawing by renowned architect Sir Robert Lorimer.

We don’t know exactly who drew it, but we have a strong hunch it might be a cheeky caricature of Sir Lorimer himself!

It’s a lovely, human glimpse into the daily life of architectural practices over a century ago.

What do you think? Does the sketch match the man?



LOR G/1/5/4 (detail) © Courtesy of HES (Records of Lorimer and Matthew)

13/05/2026

We are pleased to announce the commencement of essential conservation work at Dunyvaig Castle, a Scheduled Monument on the southern coast of Islay. Once the seat of the Lord of the Isles, the 12th-century fort is currently facing severe threats from coastal erosion and climate-driven deterioration. We are delighted to be working once again with LTM as contractor and Narro as structural engineer for the project – the same team from our recently completed Fairburn Tower project. The project is funded by a Historic Environment Scotland repair grant.

23/03/2026

We recently enjoyed a rare, close-up encounter with Prudence, the bronze statue atop the copper dome of the Royal Society of Edinburgh on George Street.

Taking advantage of the clear weather, we conducted a comprehensive drone survey across the Society’s two Category A listed buildings.

The Society originally moved into 22-24 George Street in 1909 after vacating their rooms at what is now the Royal Scottish Academy. In the 1990s, they expanded by acquiring the neighboring “White Building” - a name earned by its striking Portland Stone facade which creates a unique contrast with the typical Craigleith sandstone of its New Town neighbours.

26/02/2026

We are thrilled to be shortlisted in the South East Awards 2026 for our Rye Harbour Discovery Centre project!

26/01/2026

Fifteen years on from the opening of the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum in Alloway we are delighted to be working with the Nation once again to transform the retail spaces within the museum.