Jamie Henry
Architect, Director
Jamie has experience across a range of sectors, including higher education, community projects, urban design, and bespoke residential developments and alterations. He is a problem-solver and an opportunist: taking delight in drawing something special out of a difficult set of constraints. He is attentive and understanding, and believes that good design requires empathy for the occupants of its spaces.
Having graduated with distinction from Edinburgh University, Jamie was awarded the Andrew Grant Research Scholarship in 2014. His thesis ‘Towards a Stuttering Architecture’ examined how buildings which have reached a state of obsolescence or disrepair can offer unusual or uncanny insights into how we understand buildings and our place within them. His student work has been recognised in a number of international competitions, including reaching the shortlist for the RIBA Bronze Medal in 2012.
In addition to his role at affect studio, Jamie continues to teach in the undergraduate architecture programme at the University of Edinburgh. He is a qualified welder and spends his spare time designing and making furniture, lighting and other oddities.
Murdo McDermid
Architect, Director
Murdo's experience has a particular focus on heritage and conservation, which he has gained through studying the smallest details of domestic properties through to working on the visions for large scale restoration efforts. His fastidious approach begins with understanding how people live in their homes, ensuring the design and detailing meet every expectation. He has a keen interest in sustainability and believes this is best achieved by prolonging the life of existing buildings through conscientious renovation and retro-fitting, whilst responding sensitively to existing site conditions.
He completed his studies at the University of Edinburgh, where he was a key member of the Edinburgh University Student Architecture Society (EUSAS), heading up a redesign of promotional material for the weekly lecture series.
His photography has been featured in several major architectural, lifestyle magazines and websites, helping to promote the work of his clients.
Joseph McDermott
Architectural Technician
Joseph is the newest member of the team, having recently graduated from Architectural Technology at Edinburgh Napier University with First Class Honours, he brings a fresh and enthusiastic approach to his design methodology. Through collaboration with Jamie, Murdo and affect’s clients, he develops and brings concepts into reality.
With affect studio being his first place of practice, he is gaining experience within the industry by working very closely alongside Jamie and Murdo. Joseph gained extensive skills and understanding within domestic and non-domestic design through his studies and is constantly looking to improve and expand his knowledge with his genuine passion for architecture.
Joseph understands the importance of how architecture can significantly improve one’s health and well-being, and by staying on top of the industry’s latest innovations within sustainability and design techniques, he continuously brings a new and unique way of doing things.