Business Details
Award-Winning Sustainable Architecture in Edinburgh
Konishi Gaffney is a distinguished Scottish architecture practice with over three decades of expertise in delivering innovative, sustainable buildings across the UK, Europe, and Japan. Our approach combines rigorous design principles with creative flair, prioritising natural materials, functionality, and environmental harmony. We specialise in crafting spaces that respond to human needs and contextual nuances, from residential projects to large-scale public buildings. Our teams international experience and collaborative ethos ensure tailored solutions for each clients unique vision. Recognised with all major Scottish architecture awards, including RIAS Awards and the Scottish Design Awards Grand Prix, our work has been featured in leading publications such as the AJ and Dezeen.Founding director Kieran Gaffney brings a global perspective, having studied in London and Florence and worked in Berlin, Tokyo, and New York. We balance technical precision with artistic vision, supported by a multidisciplinary team of architects and designers. Our commitment to sustainability is evident in projects like the award-winning Sawmill Visitor Centre and Silecroft Beach Cafe. With a focus on light, materiality, and spatial flow, we create enduring architecture that enhances communities and environments. This dedication to excellence has solidified our reputation as a trusted leader in contemporary architectural practice.
Services
Sustainable Architecture
Residential Design
Cultural Buildings
Public Projects
Historic Renovations
International Projects
Highlights and features
- We have over 30 years of international architectural experience across the UK, Europe, and Japan
- Our practice combines technical precision with creative innovation in sustainable design
- We prioritise natural materials and environmental harmony in every project
- Recognised with all major Scottish architecture awards including RIAS and Scottish Design Awards
- Our multidisciplinary team delivers tailored solutions from concept to completion
Services
Sustainable Architecture
We create environmentally conscious buildings that balance ecological responsibility with functional excellence. Our approach integrates passive design principles, renewable materials, and energy-efficient systems to minimise environmental impact while maximising user comfort. This service caters to clients seeking contemporary architecture that meets rigorous sustainability standards without compromising aesthetic quality or practical functionality.
Cultural Buildings
Our expertise extends to designing inspiring cultural venues that enhance community engagement and artistic expression. From visitor centres to exhibition spaces, we create dynamic environments that respond to both functional requirements and the unique character of their surroundings. These projects demonstrate our ability to translate cultural narratives into architectural form while maintaining technical precision and accessibility.
Historic Renovations
We specialise in sensitive restoration and adaptive reuse of historic structures while introducing contemporary interventions. Our approach preserves architectural heritage through meticulous conservation techniques while integrating modern amenities and sustainable upgrades. This service serves clients seeking to revitalise existing buildings while maintaining their historical significance and cultural value within evolving urban contexts.
Residential Design
We craft bespoke residential spaces that respond to both client needs and environmental context. Our designs prioritise natural light, spatial flow, and material authenticity to create homes that feel intuitive and enduring. This service caters to homeowners seeking innovative solutions that blend modern living requirements with timeless architectural principles across various scales and budgets.
International Projects
We deliver architecture solutions across diverse cultural and geographical contexts with a nuanced understanding of local conditions. Our international experience informs a design approach that balances global best practices with site-specific considerations. This service supports clients requiring architectural expertise that adapts to different regulatory environments, construction methodologies, and cultural expectations while maintaining consistent quality standards.
People
Kieran Gaffney
Founder & Director
Architect and RIBA Fellow with over 30 years' experience across UK, Europe and Japan. Studied at Bartlett School of Architecture and University of Strathclyde. Former Heatherwick Studio team member and RIAS trustee. Regular architectural critic and media commentator.
Adam
Senior Architect
Associate architect leading award-winning projects like Lockerbie Visitor Centre. Technical lead for CAD systems and design oversight. Qualified in 2025 after graduating from Edinburgh University with Honours in 2013.
Katie
Senior Part 2 Architect
Experienced in 3D modelling and technical drawing, currently completing RIBA Part 3 exams at Newcastle University. Joined Konishi Gaffney in 2022, bringing innovative design solutions to multiple successful projects.
Mike
Architect
15-year experienced architect from Dublin, teaching at TU Dublin for a decade. First-class degree holder, now tutoring at Edinburgh University. Served as President of Architectural Association of Ireland.
Questions
What architectural styles does Konishi Gaffney specialise in?
We focus on contemporary architecture that balances modernist principles with contextual sensitivity. Our work integrates sustainable materials and passive design strategies while responding to specific site conditions and client needs across residential, cultural, and public sectors.
Can the firm handle both new builds and renovation projects?
Yes, we have extensive experience with both new constructions and historic renovations. Our portfolio includes award-winning projects like the Sawmill Visitor Centre (new build) and Comielaw Steading (heritage restoration), demonstrating our versatility across project types.
What sustainability credentials do your projects have?
Sustainability is core to our practice. We incorporate passive design principles, locally sourced materials, and energy-efficient systems in all projects. Recent work like Silecroft Beach Cafe demonstrates our commitment to low-impact architecture that harmonises with natural environments.
How does the design process typically work?
We begin with thorough client consultation to understand requirements and aspirations. This is followed by concept development, technical detailing, and collaborative project delivery. Our process maintains open communication throughout, ensuring designs evolve in response to both practical and creative considerations.
Do you work internationally as well as in Scotland?
Yes, while based in Edinburgh, we undertake projects across the UK, Europe, and Japan. Our international experience informs a design approach that adapts to diverse cultural contexts while maintaining consistent quality standards and technical excellence.
