About Us
Arc Architects is a leading Scottish architectural practice based in Cupar, Fife, working across Scotland and, on occasion, in England, Ireland and further afield. We specialise in heritage, environmental design and regeneration, regularly collaborating with third sector and community-led partnerships alongside public bodies, commercial organisations and private clients. We welcome enquiries about new projects and potential collaborations.
Arc stands for Architecture, Conservation and Research which are three strands that underpin our practice and shape the way we work at every scale.
We see Architecture as a cultural, social and environmental act. Our design ethos is to create modern, eco-friendly buildings that respond to their sites, inspire their users and tread lightly on the planet. For us, Conservation is an active, forward-looking process rooted in care and understanding, embracing cultural regeneration, protecting the spirit of place, and fostering the intangible heritage of past and future generations. Our Research informs thoughtful, responsible and context-driven design, helping us explore the impacts of construction and work across disciplines to connect science, practice and place.
Professional Recognition
Arc is both a RIBA and RIAS Chartered Practice, and we are proud to be a Fair Work First employer.
Our current staff gender balance is 62.5% male and 37.5% female.
Heritage
Heritage is a core area of expertise at Arc. Two of our architects are RIAS Conservation Accredited, including one at Advanced Level, and the practice is a member of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC). We have extensive experience in the conservation of monuments and the repair, alteration and reuse of listed buildings. Our specialist knowledge includes vernacular construction, the adaptive reuse of churches, traditional construction skills, and the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage.
Environmental Design
Arc is a RIBA 2030 Registered Practice, demonstrating our commitment to the sector-leading framework for transition to Net Zero. Two of our architects are certified Passivhaus Designers. We are members of the Scottish Ecological Design Association and Earth Building UK & Ireland, with expertise in natural materials specification, low-carbon design, skills development, biodiversity net gain and climate change adaptation.
Inclusive Design
We have significant experience working with diverse communities and client groups to deliver inclusive, equitable and meaningful outcomes. Our approach to place is more-than-human, and we favour collaborative, co-design processes with clients and stakeholders.
