Cairn are award winning architects of carefully considered low carbon buildings. Based in London and Edinburgh, we help ambitious, climate-aware clients who need sensitive solutions for challenging projects.
We are specialists in lean construction and are independent in our approach. We seek out commissions that are demanding and develop a tailored response appropriate to each situation.
We employ a rigorous process to meet our clients’ targets and reduce their risk with buildings that enhance their occupants’ health and are easy for authorities to approve. Achieving simple solutions is not easy; we use cutting edge design technology and carbon calculator tools alongside a unique database of sustainable construction and expert collaborators.
Weaving together the pragmatic and poetic, we work with the rational and emotional implications of construction. We make settings for everyday life that will age well, continuing to benefit a broad range of people over time.
KIERAN HAWKINS, DIRECTOR
Cairn was founded by Kieran Hawkins. Kieran is a Chartered Member of the RIBA and has been an ARB registered architect since completing his qualifications at UCL in 2010. He teaches at Edinburgh University, helping to bring new research and best practice into all of Cairn’s projects. He is a member of the Scottish Environmental Design Association and is a Director of the AE Foundation.
ISO ACCREDITATION
Reflecting the high level of service we offer our clients, Cairn has been certified to internationally recognised ISO standards for Quality Management, Environmental Management and Health & Safety Management under ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015 and ISO 45001:2018.
AWARDS AND COMPETITION PLACEMENTS
– RIBA Awards 2025, Shortlisted (results pending)
– Hackney Design Awards, Overall Winner and Commendation in Sustainability, 2024
– Environmental Leadership Prize, NLA Don’t Move Improve Awards, 2024
– UK Regenerative Architecture Index, Selected for Inaugural Register, 2024
– Notting Hill Genesis Small Sites Framework, Highest Overall Score, 2022
– St Pancras Way Housing Competition, Shortlisted, 2022
– Rosshaupten Community Buildings Competition, First Place, 2021
– Kressbronn Children’s Centre and Housing Competition, Joint First Place, 2021
– Korntal Elderly Housing and Community Centre Competition, First Place, 2020
– Best of Houzz Design Awards, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024