DS Architecture

Redefining a growing architecture practice.

DS Architecture is the award-winning practice of acclaimed Scottish architect Dugald Skene. Established in 2014, DS Architecture has won several awards for its contemporary residential projects, most recently scooping an EAA award for the iconic Circus Lane project.

Influenced by the timeless principles design, DS Architecture applies a responsive and considered and minimalistic approach. The practise embraces mid-century modernist principles — clean lines, simplicity, and seamless integration with the environment — to create elevated 21st-century spaces.

Inspired by key attributes of the practise’s output, we conceived a unique, highly-crafted and modular acronym-logotype — ‘DSA’. It is a celebration of modernist reduction.

The collective forms are inspired by the play of light on physical surfaces, while referencing the collaborative nature of the practice. A visual rhythm of sharp lines and formed curves evokes the contemporary built environment, echoing principles of mid-century architectural details.

DSA’s responsive and adaptive approach is informed by the use of these forms across additional brand touchpoints — the logotype can flex dynamically in scale across physical and digital applications, while individual forms are used at scale to create bold compositions which play on the notion of physical space and movement.

To support the new identity, the acronym subtly inspired the practice’s new positioning statement — “Distinctive. Storied. Assured”.

Supported by a neutral but natural brand palette and modern sans-serif supporting typography, the identity is simple, rigorous and dynamic — creating a forward-looking brand for the practise.

A clean, simple portfolio website allows room for the project images to take centre-stage, with a minimal and contemporary palette that echoes the simplicity and beauty of the buildings themselves.

“The team at Touch has been a joy to collaborate with. They immediately got a sense of what DSA was trying to achieve, and translated that vision into a brand concept that worked on multiple levels while remaining simple and understated. The design process was very much two-way, allowing opportunities to review, scrutinise and develop a final brand strategy that everyone was fully invested in. A truly satisfying and enjoyable process to be involved in” Dugald Skene.