Business Details
10 Years
experience
Award-Winning Architects in Glasgow
Established in 2016, Loader Monteith is a Glasgow-based architectural practice dedicated to creating meaningful spaces through a blend of conservation, sustainability, and innovative design. Our team of experienced architects specialises in transforming historic buildings while integrating modern, energy-efficient solutions. With a focus on client collaboration, we prioritise understanding individual needs to deliver tailored architectural solutions that enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Our expertise extends to heritage projects, low-carbon technologies, and circular design principles, ensuring long-term value for clients. Recognised through numerous industry awards, we combine technical excellence with a deep commitment to environmental responsibility.By working closely with local craftspeople and contractors, we ensure every project reflects its unique context and community. Our directors, Matt Loader and Iain Monteith, bring decades of combined experience in diverse architectural typologies, from cultural landmarks to private residences. As certified Passive House designers, we lead in sustainable building practices that balance ecological considerations with cutting-edge design. Our approach is rooted in continuous learning and research, ensuring our work remains at the forefront of architectural innovation. With a portfolio spanning the UK and beyond, we remain committed to delivering architecture that enriches lives and preserves cultural heritage for future generations.
Services
Architectural Design
Heritage Conservation
Sustainable Architecture
Project Management
Passive House Design
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- We are certified Passive House designers with expertise in low-carbon architecture.
- Our team has delivered award-winning heritage conservation projects across the UK.
- We combine 25+ years of combined director experience with innovative design approaches.
- We prioritise client collaboration to create tailored, context-sensitive architectural solutions.
- Our work integrates circular design principles for long-term environmental and functional value.
Associations and certifications
- RIBA
- RIAS
- ARB
Services
Heritage Conservation
Specialising in preserving historic buildings, we combine rigorous research with modern techniques to extend their lifespan while maintaining architectural integrity. Our work includes adaptive reuse of listed structures and integration of low-carbon technologies. Projects span ecclesiastical buildings, distilleries, and urban landmarks.
Sustainable Architecture
We implement circular design principles, focusing on material reuse, energy efficiency, and disassembly-ready construction. Our approach reduces environmental impact while ensuring long-term practicality for occupants and communities across residential and commercial projects.
Passive House Design
Certified Passive House designers create ultra-low energy buildings requiring minimal heating or cooling. This involves precise thermal modelling, airtight construction, and innovative ventilation strategies tailored to each site's microclimate and client needs.
Project Management
From concept to completion, we coordinate multidisciplinary teams, contractors, and local authorities. Our management ensures projects meet budget, timeline, and quality standards while maintaining design integrity across complex heritage and new-build schemes.
Architectural Consultancy
Offering expert guidance on planning permissions, listed building consents, and sustainability strategies. We help clients navigate regulatory frameworks while developing creative solutions that align with their vision and budgetary requirements.
People
Matt Loader
Co-founder and Director
Qualified architect since 2009 and Conservation Architect, Matt leads design teams on award-winning projects. He has extensive experience in historic settings and serves as a former RIAS trustee with expertise in community-focused architecture.
Iain Monteith
Co-founder and Director
With over 25 years in architectural practice, Iain specialises in complex projects from distilleries to healthcare facilities. He manages practice operations and contributes to architectural education as a former Mackintosh School tutor.
Jamie Begg
Architectural Assistant
Graduate from ESALA with experience in listed properties and rural projects. Jamie focuses on mental healthcare spaces and embodied carbon reduction, joining Loader Monteith in 2024 after postgraduate studies at Mackintosh School.
Catherine McCartney
Project Architect
With experience in Amsterdam, London, and Edinburgh, Catherine specialises in environmental architecture. She works on conservation projects including Westminster Abbey and Edinburgh Playhouse, bringing diverse international perspectives to her design approach.
Michael Southern
Architect and Passive House Designer
Certified Passive House Designer with experience across cultural and residential sectors. Michael teaches sustainability at Strathclyde University and applies experimental methodologies to create unique, energy-efficient architectural solutions for each project.
Questions
What architectural services does Loader Monteith offer?
We provide heritage conservation, sustainable design, Passive House solutions, and full project management for residential, cultural, and commercial projects.
Do you work on listed buildings?
Yes, we specialise in conservation projects for listed buildings, combining historic preservation with modern functionality and low-carbon technologies.
Can you handle large-scale projects?
We manage projects of all scales, from small domestic extensions to major developments, with a minimum construction budget of £200k.
Are you experts in sustainable architecture?
Yes, we integrate circular design principles, material reuse, and energy-efficient strategies, including certified Passive House design expertise.
Do you work outside Scotland?
While based in Glasgow, we undertake projects across the UK and internationally, adapting our approach to local contexts and regulations.
How do you involve clients in the design process?
We collaborate closely throughout, ensuring client visions shape every design decision while maintaining environmental and functional integrity.
