The aim of the RIAS accreditation scheme is to promote conservation skills among architects so that they will be better equipped to take the lead in conserving Scotland’s built heritage.

Accreditation relates to the demonstration of a high level of conservation skills and a sympathetic design approach to monuments, buildings or structures which are listed. The scheme recognises that historic building owners, central government and local authorities, funders etc need reassurance about the skills of conservation architects, and this is first of all what the scheme aims to provide; it is not intended to be a barrier to work if you are not a conservation accredited architect. Accreditation at entry level is intended to be possible for any architect who can demonstrate the skills and experience reasonably required to deliver conservation projects competently on behalf of clients and the scheme is intended to support and encourage each architect’s further education and development of experience in architectural conservation. Clients require reassurance that the accredited architect has the appropriate skill set and is passionate about working with historic buildings. Funding agencies, in particular, require reassurance that applicants for their repair grants employ a lead professional with the relevant specialist conservation knowledge, ability and experience.

Conservation architecture entails work to existing buildings or new work which has a significant impact on an existing building or its setting. There is a presumption that architectural conservation is primarily, but not exclusively, concerned with listed buildings. The objectives of architectural conservation could be economic or environmental as well as being purely cultural and the work may include designated or undesignated buildings, scheduled ancient monuments, conservation areas and buildings in gardens and designed landscapes.

RIAS accreditation in architectural conservation is available to any practising architects who, through the provision of project case studies, can demonstrate that they meet the necessary standards required in their personal experience, knowledge, commitment and understanding of conservation philosophies. Accreditation will recognise skills attained and applied to building conservation projects and the ongoing personal and professional commitment of the individual architect to the advancement of conservation architecture.

The skills and the professional judgement required to repair, restore, adapt and extend old buildings well - knowledgeably, creatively, sometimes boldly and sometimes self-effacingly - are fundamentally those of a good architect. However, a conservation architect requires particular knowledge and skills beyond those of the architect engaged only with new work. Some of these skills may be learned through education and formal training. Architectural conservation also requires the sort of understanding gained from experience in practice, usually through informal apprenticeship and working in proximity to more experienced practitioners. The first prerequisite is a real interest in architectural history, traditional building techniques and conservation theory. Conservation architects are passionate about historic buildings and places; and with making old buildings useful, sustainable and financially viable, as well as with the retention of their historical qualities for the benefit of future generations.

Applicants for RIAS accreditation normally have to have been registered architects for at least four to five years and must demonstrate adequate knowledge and skill to take the lead in building conservation projects, not just a theoretical understanding of building conservation. This timeframe is guidance, and the scheme recognises that some individuals may feel they meet the criteria sooner than five years post registration. In such cases they should contact the scheme administrator for advice. Currently, five case studies of completed projects must be submitted, at least three of which should date from the past five years.

The RIAS scheme was the first scheme for architects in the UK, launched in 1995. The Historic Buildings Council for Scotland encouraged the RIAS to establish the scheme and as an added incentive, from 1999, accreditation was made a requirement for architects taking the lead in all government grant aided conservation projects. The value of conservation accreditation is now widely recognised by owners and managers of historic buildings and sites as providing an important assurance of professional competence, and it can also offer architects a measure of market advantage.

There are two levels of accreditation:

Accredited Architect in Conservation Architecture

• Standard – Competent in working in the Historic Built Environment

Advanced Accredited Architect in Conservation Architecture

• Senior – Recognised Conservation Specialist

‘Accredited’ members may apply for an upgrade to ‘Advanced’ if they meet the eligibility criteria (see application forms and guidance).

The Application form for accreditation can be found here: https://airtable.com/applQ2z0hr02myHYw/shreBGgAcGjmlLDSp and re-accreditation here: https://airtable.com/applQ2z0hr02myHYw/shr2AFCZdnQ5JRJco.  Individuals applying for an upgrade to advanced level should use the former.

From 1 January 2025, there will be a £220 application fee for RIAS members payable on application at both Accredited and Advanced levels.  Non-RIAS members pay a higher fee of £310.  Re-accreditation fees are £120 for RIAS members and £195 for non-members, also payable on application.  These fees are non-refundable and accepted by debit/credit card.

In line with similar schemes, there is an annual renewal fee of £60 for RIAS members and £75 for non-members.  Annual renewal fees will be sent out with RIAS member renewal notices at the start of the year and are required to remain on our published register of accredited conservation architects.  Non-members will be contacted separately at the start of each year.  Please note fees are reviewed by the RIAS on an annual basis and exclude VAT.