h | ARCHITECTstudio is an architecture practice based in Dundee Scotland, dedicated to achieving excellence in every aspect of our work. Our passion lies in creating high-quality homes, workplaces, and communities that prioritise the health and well-being of the end user. Whether collaborating with homeowners or business owners, we provide practical and useful advice, empowering our clients to make informed decisions which result in positive project outcomes.
Donal-James Hardy - Founding Director & Architect
Donal-James Hardy was educated at the Dundee School of Architecture where he completed a research based Masters and graduated with Distinction. His final year design project received the ‘Dundee City Council Prize for Best Project in a Civic Context’ and was nominated for the ‘Architecture + Design Scotland – Urban Design Award 2011’.
As a fully qualified Architect and Certified Passive House Designer with more than 13 years working in the industry, and over 9 years working for an AJ 100 practice, he has a wealth of experience in the design and delivery of award winning residential developments in London and South-east England. With a specialist interest on low-energy residential architecture - quality is central to their work alongside a keen focus on the needs of both the client and end-users.
Donal-James established h | ARCHITECTstudio in Dundee to pursue his passion for residential architecture and to make high‑quality design accessible to more people. He also serves on the board of Dundee Civic Trust, advocating for higher design standards and promoting responsible residential and civic development across the city.”
Notable projects
Thomas Alexander Herd - Director & Architect
Thomas Alexander Herd is a distinguished graduate of the University of Westminster, London, where he earned a Postgraduate Diploma with Distinction. This followed the completion of his Master of Architecture degree, with Distinction, at the Dundee School of Architecture in 2011.
A RIBA Chartered Architect with over 13 years of professional experience, Thomas has spent the past seven years at an internationally recognised RIBA Chartered, design-led practice. There, he specialised in crafting bespoke residential projects for unique clients across diverse and challenging environments—building on earlier work in residential development throughout London.
With a hands-on background in carpentry and direct involvement in the construction of his own designs, Thomas brings a rare and tactile understanding of materials, detail, and the making process.
In 2025, Thomas returned to his native Scotland to join h | ARCHITECTstudio, driven by a passion for site-responsive design. His work continues to focus on creating contextually grounded, client-focused architecture that resonates with place and purpose.