Oak-frame architect profile James F Stephen Architects

James F Stephen Architects is an award-winning practice, based within rural Tayside, providing architectural, interior and landscaping design services. It is a versatile practice, which provides innovative solutions to its clients’ requirements. Solutions which are based upon careful attention to detail whilst combining new and existing timber frame construction technologies to create enhanced living and working environments.

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In 1976 Fred Stephen and family visited Denmark to undertake a study tour of contemporary Danish architecture, from the domestic work of Jorn Utzon (architect for the Sydney Opera House) and Arne Jacobsen to the religious buildings of Vilhelm Wohlert and others.

Inspired by the quality of design, the attention to detail and wonderful use of timber, Fred returned to set up practice the following year in December 1977 at the family home in rural Angus.

The practice’s first commission was the alterations and extension to Flatfield Farmhouse at Errol, Perthshire. Exposed Douglas Fir twin trusses were designed to support the roof while creating a feature in the open lean-to ceiling which partly houses a storage gallery. The finished design was published in the 1979 RIAS magazine ‘Prospect’.

Timber, whether Green Oak, Douglas Fir or simply Redwood, when used appropriately in a structural or aesthetic manner, is a very beautiful and tactile material.

The practice’s first office, built in 1984/85, employed bulk Redwood timber trusses with a king post. All the bolt and washer connections were exposed and painted red. The sloping ceilings were finished in diagonally laid rough sawn sarking left natural in colour. The office won an RIBA commendation in 1987.

Fred’s own house employs a mixture of laminated Douglas Fir columns and beams, exposed Douglas Fir rafters, joists and 300x300mm bulk timbers used as lintols. The finished work gained a Dundee Institute of Architects Award in 1998 and was published shortly afterwards in the Scotland Home Magazine.

The practice’s new office in the conservation village of Glamis, in Angus, built in 2006, features exposed laminated timber beams with Douglas Fir posts. All glazed screens are made of Douglas Fir with all external linings in Iroko hardwood. Milton Studio won an Angus Design Award – Highly Commended in 2008.

James F Stephen Architects has won in excess of 30 design awards.

The practice’s most notable award was for its part in the preparation of all detailed drawings, specifications and contract administration for Maggies Centre in Dundee, designed by Frank Gehry. The building won the Royal Fine Arts Commission - Best Building in Britain in 2004.

James F Stephen Architects has utilised and integrated various novel timber construction technologies on many projects throughout its 32 years in business. From small-scale domestic alterations, to larger commercial and ecclesiastical projects. With close attention to detail, combined with a thorough knowledge and understanding of traditional materials, the practice hopefully provides clients with design solutions that exceed their expectations.

Numerous clients and visitors to the practice’s studio comment on the lovely setting and working environment. The choice of location is important to the success of the practice being relatively close to major cities yet serving the local community. This has encouraged the spread of commissions throughout the UK and Europe, so important to growth. The five partners (four of whom are family) and most of the staff reside in Angus, where they enjoy the quality of life this environment offers.

All the staff feel that this spiritual aspect contributes to James F Stephen Architects’ artistic commitment and the resultant quality of the practice’s architecture.

Customers’ comments

“Thank you for your contribution which has been vital, … dedicated personal commitment succeeded in saving a magnificent iconic building. Thank you for your outstanding contribution.”Local Authority Head of Planning

“...the excellent and detailed proposals prepared in an impossible timescale”Local Authority Head of Planning

“I’d like to take this opportunity to personally thank all involved in this project despite extremely demanding restrictions of both time and budget constraints. It’s quite remarkable what’s been achieved in the last few weeks – the building has literally been transformed before our very eyes.”Christina Potter, Principal, Dundee College

“Students and teaching staff will return to use the new facilities on Monday and I’m certain they’ll be thrilled with the refurbished and adapted accommodation, particularly if the very positive comments that I’ve received already, from those that have seen it, are anything to go by. Thanks again to all involved! I look forward to working with you again in the future.”Derek Marshall, Estate Development Manager, Dundee College

contact information

James F Stephen Architects

Milton Studio
Glamis
Angus

DD8 1RG

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