A small design-led practice specialising in bespoke residential projects across Scotland. Offering a personal and high-quality service that values each individual brief and budget.
Founded as Allison Joy Architects in 2018 by Allison Joy Strathdee, A-JOY Architects is an award-winning Chartered Architects Practice with the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS).
We are passionate about creating contemporary buildings that responds to each site’s unique attributes. The history, landscape, light, views, nature, materials and architectural context are all carefully considered and used to inform the design.
“Allison ensured the smooth running of processes to help ensure an on time, on budget project delivered to the highest quality.”
We are dedicated to every project and enjoy being involved from inception to completion. This allows us to develop the details with you and helps to preserve the design intent, meanwhile monitoring costs and programme. We can select an appropriate contract for your project and administrate this for you during the build, providing a framework for a smooth and successful construction process. We can also offer a tailored service to meet the requirements and aspirations of individual projects.
While we specialise in residential architecture, our portfolio also includes a broad range of work, from bespoke new builds and sensitive extensions to renovations, conversions, small scale developments and exciting commercial ventures.
“Allison's eye for detail is par excellence and you couldn't work with a lovelier, more invested person.”
Allison Joy Strathdee
Principal Architect | BSc Hons MARCH ARB RIAS
Allison trained at The Scott Sutherland School of Architecture at The Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen before working on high-profile conservation projects and sensitive new build developments at one of the UK’s leading conservation practices, in Edinburgh. It is here that she developed a love for our built heritage and an understanding of the use of traditional materials and construction methods.
After graduating in 2009, Allison completed her professional studies at an award-winning practice in rural Aberdeenshire and was promoted to Senior Associate, leading projects from inception through to completion. She enjoyed working with a dynamic team and being fortunate to experience a wide range of projects with a strong focus on reduced energy consumption and the use of renewable energy solutions.
Following a desire to return with her family to her hometown and after securing several private commissions as a sole practitioner, Allison was able to realise her ambition of creating her own architecture practice and set up Allison Joy Architects Ltd in September 2018.
Allison is also a chartered member of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) and the Architects Registration Board (ARB).
Away from the studio Allison enjoys spending time with her family on their favourite local beach, cold water swimming and practicing yoga.