studiomcmillanarchitects
About us
Studio McMillan is an award-winning architecture practice specialising in thoughtfully designed homes, extensions and adaptations.
We work closely with clients to transform existing houses and create new ones that are simple, joyful and practical to live in. Our projects range from home extensions and alterations to new build houses, conversions, garden studios and small workspaces.
The studio also has particular expertise in accessible design, helping homeowners create inclusive spaces that work for wheelchair users and people with additional needs.
We guide clients through the whole process — from early ideas and planning permission through to building warrant and construction — helping turn ideas into well-designed homes that work beautifully in everyday life.
Good design can completely transform how a home feels and functions. A well-considered extension or alteration can bring in light, improve the flow between spaces and connect the house more closely to the garden and surrounding landscape.
We focus on simple, well-proportioned spaces that are practical to build and carefully tailored to how people actually live. Good design also offers long-term value through flexibility, adaptability and the efficient use of budget, materials and energy.
Initial consultations are completely free and without obligation. We’d be very happy to hear about your project and discuss how we might help.
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ARCHITECT DIRECTOR
IAN MCMILLAN
Ian McMillan is a chartered architect with over 25 years’ experience designing buildings in the UK and Europe. He studied architecture at the Mackintosh School of Architecture at the University of Glasgow, graduating with a first-class honours degree before qualifying as an architect in 1996.
During his early career he worked in London, Berlin, Stuttgart, Glasgow and Edinburgh on major cultural and civic buildings including the British Embassy in Berlin and The Lowry in Salford.
In 2013 he co-founded Chambers McMillan Architects, specialising in residential design. During this time he led numerous successful housing projects from concept through to construction, including the award-winning accessible Ramp House. Several projects have received awards and been featured in publications such as Grand Designs and Homes & Interiors Scotland.
Ian now directs Studio McMillan Architects, focusing on carefully designed homes, extensions and adaptations.
You can contact Ian direct on 07484 638858 and at ian@studiomcmillan.com
Client
Testimonials
'Ian transformed our North-facing bungalow into a light-filled stunning home with his Innovative design. He exceeded all expectations with an extension that vastly improved the layout and energy efficiency of our home. He was professional, easy to work with and we were impressed with his creative solutions that gave us the home we really wanted. It’s 10 out of 10 from us.'
John and Susan Yates, Edinburgh
'Ian McMillan is an exceptional architect who is extremely personable, helpful, knowledgeable, speedy, and thorough. He produced for me a well-reasoned and highly imaginative design that exceeded all of my expectations! Do not hesitate to instruct!'
Dr Gavin Miller, Plastic Surgeon, Darras Hall, Newcastle upon Tyne
Expert Advice
We are sometimes instructed to provide independent architectural advice in relation to housing needs arising from disability or injury.
This work typically involves reviewing occupational therapy recommendations and assessing how existing homes can be adapted, or whether alternative accommodation may be more appropriate. We provide clear, practical advice on feasibility, spatial requirements and potential costs.
This area of work builds on our wider experience in designing wheelchair-accessible homes and delivering complex residential adaptations. It reflects a broader interest in how thoughtful design can support independence, dignity and quality of life.
The practice can accept a limited number of instructions each year where this expertise is required.
FAQs
Why use an architect?
Architects are trained to understand the whole building process — from early design ideas through to planning permission and construction. An architect can help you see possibilities that may not initially be obvious, developing solutions that balance design, cost and buildability.
Why is good design important?
We spend a large part of our lives in our homes, and the way we use them has changed significantly over time. Good design helps optimise how a home works — improving light, space and flow between rooms. Well-designed spaces can make a home feel lighter, brighter and more connected to the outside, improving comfort and wellbeing.
Is an architect expensive?
In comparison to the overall construction cost, the architect’s fee is usually a relatively small percentage. A well-designed project can add significant value to a home while making it work far better for everyday life.
We usually offer fixed fees for each stage of work so that clients know the costs in advance.
What services do you offer?
Architecture projects typically follow a series of stages, and clients can appoint us for as many or as few stages as they require:
1 – Survey and brief development
2 – Concept design and budget costing
3 – Planning permission
4 – Building warrant
5 – Construction drawings
6 – Tender to contractors
7 – Site inspections and contract administration
8 – Completion and handover
Some clients appoint us only for the planning and building warrant stages, while others choose a full service through construction. Each stage is agreed separately so clients remain in control of the process.
Is my project too small?
Probably not. Most of our work involves house extensions and alterations rather than new-build homes. In some cases homes benefit more from internal alterations and careful re-planning of space rather than building a larger extension.
How much will my project cost to build?
At the initial consultation we can provide a rough cost indication based on recent projects of a similar type. Because every project is different this is only an early guide.
If appointed, we develop the concept design with you and can obtain more accurate construction costs from builders or a quantity surveyor before submitting the planning application. This helps align the design with the available budget.
Most of our projects involve extensions and alterations with construction budgets between £80k and £400k.
Do you offer initial consultations?
Yes. Initial consultations are free and without obligation. We will visit your home, listen to your ideas and discuss the opportunities and constraints of the project. We can give early design thoughts, outline construction costs and explain the likely project timeline.