About ED Design · Residential architectural design studio in Stirling ED Design. Leading you home.
Homes shaped by people and place.
ED Design is a contemporary residential architectural design studio based in Stirling, Scotland. We create homes defined by their setting and designed around the people who live in them.
Every design begins with a conversation — about how you live, what you hope for and what the site might become. Through proportion, natural light, honest materials and carefully resolved detail, we create homes that feel effortless to live in and rewarding to return to.
We design bespoke self-build homes, replacement dwellings, extensions and renovations across Stirling, Edinburgh, Perthshire, the Scottish Borders and throughout Scotland.
Creative thinking. Grounded in reality.
We love the possibilities of a blank sheet of paper, but we never lose sight of how a home will be built. Experience in contemporary residential design, timber-frame and SIPs construction, and prefabricated building systems helps us balance architectural ambition with materials, buildability and budget.
You’ll be part of the conversation throughout. We explain the choices, listen to your feedback and guide your project through concept, planning, technical design, Building Warrant applications and, where appointed, construction-stage support. Each appointed stage has a clearly agreed scope and fee, so you know what to expect.
Meet Chris Eadie.
Chris Eadie has spent over 20 years designing homes across Scotland, England and the United States — from timber-frame and SIPs houses in Scotland to bespoke prefabricated residences in Aspen and private homes on Martha’s Vineyard.
With a background in architectural design, structural engineering and architectural technology, he brings a rare mix of imagination and practical knowledge. As founder of ED Design, Chris works directly with every client, taking time to understand not just the brief, but the life the home needs to support.
From Edinburgh to Stirling. Via America.
- 2005
EdinburghDesign meets engineering
Chris began studying Architectural Design and Structural Engineering, later graduating with an Honours Degree in Architectural Technology.
- Early career
Scottish BordersLearning how homes are built
Work with a house designer and timber-frame manufacturer developed his understanding of bespoke self-build and prefabricated construction.
- Then
EdinburghContemporary residential design
As a Senior Architectural Technologist at an award-winning practice, Chris developed his experience in planning and detailed design.
- Four years
Boston, USAAn international perspective
As Senior Designer at a Boston architectural practice, Chris contributed to bespoke prefabricated homes in Aspen, Colorado, and private residences on Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, developing a broader perspective on design, materials and detailing.
- Return
Return to ScotlandContinuing international collaboration
Chris maintained his relationship with the Boston practice as an architectural design consultant, bringing international experience into his work in Scotland.
- 2021
StirlingEstablishing ED Design
Chris founded ED Design to bring together contemporary architectural thinking, technical expertise and a more personal approach to creating individual homes.
A more personal way to create a home.
Chris founded ED Design with a simple ambition: to make bespoke home design more accessible to self-builders without compromising architectural quality. Creating your dream home should feel exciting, not inaccessible.
He wanted to offer self-builders and homeowners the design quality of a dedicated residential studio alongside something just as valuable: direct conversations, honest advice and someone who knows their project from the first sketch onwards. A studio where creative thinking meets practical expertise, and where clients are personally involved, informed and confident throughout the design process.
Eight stages. One clear direction.
- 01
Project brief
Understand your ambitions, site and budget.
Read more - 02
Concept & schematic design
Explore architectural ideas, layouts and form.
Read more - 03
Cost review & budget testing
Test affordability with appropriate cost advice.
Read more - 04
Planning application
Prepare and manage the agreed submission.
Read more - 05
Detailed design
Resolve and coordinate the architectural information.
Read more - 06
Building Warrant application
Prepare and manage the technical submission.
Read more - 07
Construction documentation
Develop the agreed tender and construction information.
Read more - 08
Construction-stage support
Provide design input and site visits where appointed.
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Your questions, answered.
Do I need an architect to design a self-build home in Scotland?
You do not generally need an ARB-registered architect to design a self-build home or prepare planning and Building Warrant applications in Scotland. Architectural designers and technologists can also provide these services. The important question is whether your appointed team has the appropriate design and technical expertise for your project.
Where does ED Design work?
Based in Stirling, we work across Scotland, including Dunblane, Bridge of Allan, Perthshire, Edinburgh, the Lothians, Glasgow, the Scottish Borders and the Highlands.
Can you work in conservation areas or with listed buildings?
Yes. Our experience includes sensitive settings and conservation areas. We consider heritage, site constraints and local policy from the outset. Listed building consent or specialist input may also be required, depending on the proposal.
Can you help with planning permission and Building Warrants?
Yes. We prepare and manage the agreed architectural submissions and coordinate with the relevant authorities. Approval decisions rest with the council.
Will you stay involved during construction?
Where appointed, we can respond to design queries, review relevant information and attend agreed site visits. The precise responsibilities are set out in your written appointment.
“He has allowed me to feel a true partner in the design process.”
Start with a conversation.
Tell us about your plot or your plans. We’ll explore the possibilities and discuss a sensible next step.