BRACEWELL Stirling Consulting has made a series of key hires to bolster its team and support the launch of an enhanced master-planning service.
Additionally, the architectural practice – which recently marked its 99th year by becoming part of the consultancy portfolio of Scottish investment company, GEG Capital – has opened a larger office in Oban.
The firm, which also has offices in Inverness and Tillicoultry, announced that David Lawrie has been appointed as a partner having been an associate architect from May to November 2024 and senior associate from November to January 2025. Lawrie is based in the company’s Tillicoultry office.
Mark Hamilton has been appointed as strategic design + master plan lead. Based in Tillicoultry, the firm said that Mark brings a wealth of experience as an accomplished architect, university educator, and former architectural director, where he led a large architectural team at a prominent Scottish house builder.
Speaking about Mark’s appointment, Bracewell Stirling’s senior partner, David Keith, said,“With over a decade of experience designing and coordinating landmark urban residential projects and new mixed-use villages across Scotland, Mark’s portfolio is impressive. Notable projects include Betha Park in Perth, Dykes of Gray Village in Dundee, Elgin South in Moray, Lingerwood in Midlothian, and most significantly, Durieshill in Stirling – an exemplar masterplan and the largest approved detailed application in Scotland.
“Bracewell Stirling looks forward to the new perspectives and enriched vision Mark will bring to our practice as we continue to shape the built environment across Scotland and beyond.”
Speaking on his new role, Mark said, “I am delighted to bring my extensive experience back to my roots as a passionate architect and urban designer. Joining Bracewell Stirling, a well-established and respected Scottish practice with a century-long legacy, aligns perfectly with my commitment to impactful design. I am excited to contribute to their renowned expertise, further amplifying the focus on strategic, urban, master planning, and architectural design within their diverse range of services.”
Joining Hamilton – and supporting him from the firm’s Oban office – is Sarah McKenzie, new urban design + master planner. With a background in architecture and planning, she has worked on major projects across the UK, delivering positive planning outcomes for clients and communities.
Speaking about her new role, Sarah said, “I am thrilled to bring my expertise in developing viable and inviting strategic masterplans to our range of clients. My passion lies in crafting sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant spaces that foster social interaction through thoughtful design. I bring a range of experience working on mixed-use settlement expansions, leisure and tourism proposals and public realm improvements and I am excited to continue this with Bracewell Stirling.”
The company has also announced it has moved to new, larger premises in Oban at 8 High Street.
Jia MacKenzie, director at GEG Capital, commented, “Bracewell Stirling Consulting’s growth — through these key appointments, and as a result, an enhanced master-planning service — exemplifies the innovation and expertise we champion. As they enter their centenary year with fresh momentum, we are excited to see the company’s impact continue to expand, both within our portfolio and across Scotland’s architectural landscape.
“The expansion of our consultancy portfolio reflects GEG Capital’s commitment to strategic growth and investment. In just five years, we have built a consultancy group of over 200 specialists, generating £24m in turnover across multiple sectors. Our approach remains focused on fostering synergies, expanding our geographical reach, and strengthening our capabilities in response to growing market demand.”
