Steve Malone appointed Director of Design

Principal Architect Steve Malone has been appointed as Architecture and Design Scotland’s Director of Design, as Heather Claridge takes on a new role with Glasgow City Region (GCR). 

Steve Malone is an architect who brings over 20 years of experience in the private and public sectors. In his 19 years at Architecture and Design Scotland, Steve has led our work on regeneration and town centre living and has played a central role in providing design advice and support for public sector-driven investments including healthcare, housing and community, as well as public infrastructure investment.  

Architecture and Design Scotland is currently working to implement the recommendations from the Scottish Government’s 2024 review of architecture policy delivery in Scotland. Most notably, this involves delivering a renewed focus on architecture and sector development, with a reshaped remit as a centre for excellence. In the coming months, Steve will lead the design advice team through this time of organisational change and development.  

Commenting on his appointment, Steve said:  

“I'm excited to be stepping into this role at such a pivotal time for the organisation. The work we’re doing has never felt more important, and I’m looking forward to building on Heather’s legacy while continuing to champion design that makes a real difference for people, communities, and towards a more sustainable future.”

This transition in leadership comes as Architecture and Design Scotland’s current Director of Design Heather Claridge moves to an exciting new role as Strategic Spatial Planning Group Manager for Glasgow City Region (GCR), where she will provide leadership on the development of a new Regional Spatial Strategy and other regional planning priorities. 

During her 3 years at Architecture and Design Scotland, Heather has championed the value of place-based approaches and design for wellbeing across Scotland’s built environment. Under her leadership, the team has supported key national priorities around sustainable development, inclusive design, and community engagement.

Heather said: 

“It has been a privilege to be Architecture and Design Scotland’s Director of Design during these past 3 years. I have loved working with such a passionate team and such brilliant partners to explore the big issues facing our places, and to help drive forward people-centred, climate-conscious place-making. As I take on a new role with the Glasgow City Region, I’m looking forward to carrying these values with me and continuing to champion the role of design in shaping better places. I am grateful to everyone at A&DS for their support, and I wish Steve all the best in his new role.”

Chief Executive Jim Macdonald added: 

“Since she joined us in 2022, Heather has contributed hugely to our work, bringing energy, expertise, enthusiasm and a deep commitment to delivering better places for people across Scotland. I am very grateful to Heather for her leadership and the impact she has had. As we look to the future, I’m also delighted that Steve will be stepping into the role. Steve is well respected and brings a strong design ethos, collaborative spirit, and clear vision – qualities that will be invaluable as we continue to evolve our work.” 

Steve will take up the new role from 30 June 2025.