Robert Ironside, Timber Kit Architectural Technician at Scotia’s Caledonia Homes division, brought a unique blend of talents to the recent Kintore showhome launch - from architectural design to photography and even bagpiping guests in during the grand opening weekend.

Robert began his journey with Scotia in January 2023 as a part-time Student Assistant Architectural Technician while studying at Robert Gordon University. After graduating in May 2024 with a First-Class Honours degree in Architectural Technology, he transitioned into a full-time role.

Now responsible for designing and overseeing the manufacture of timber kits used across Scotia developments and bespoke Caledonia sites, Robert plays a key role in bringing Scotia homes to life.

Reflecting on his path into architecture, Robert shared:

"My interest in architecture began at secondary school level as I really enjoyed the subject of graphic communication and as a result this became my strongest subject, so much so that I went on to achieve an A in Advanced Higher in my final year at Fraserburgh Academy.

"The sense of success I experienced through doing something I really enjoyed encouraged me to go down a career path of a similar nature with the idea that if you enjoy what you do, it makes working hard less of a challenge and more of a passion and as a result you are much more likely to succeed.

"I carried this attitude through university and into the workplace, focusing on allowing my work ethic and passion for drawing to be my leading motivator as an architectural professional."

Outside of architecture, Robert is also an accomplished bagpiper - a talent he’s honed since age nine with the Fraserburgh RBL Pipe Band. He even brought this skill to the showhome launch, performing for visitors during the event.

"I started piping in 2012 as a new hobby after a primary school visit from a pupil from the local secondary school.

"Seeing him play his pipes really peaked my interest and from that point onwards I went on to become heavily invested in the world of pipe bands and have spent the last 13 years bettering myself as a player through a mass amount of practise as well as performing and competing at events all across the UK and even in France on one occasion!"

Robert also used his photography skills to capture a first look at the new showhome, giving the public an early preview of the new Telford 5-bedroom detached home, which can be viewed below.

"It was a great opportunity to play my pipes and capture some images of the showhome at Kintore. A rare occasion where personal and professional life get the opportunity to meet and blend so closely."

At Scotia, we're proud to celebrate the diverse talents our team brings to the table — both inside and outside of work.

To view Robert wide range of styles and subjects of photography, you can click here. Robert is available to book for a variety of events, as both a photographer and as a piper.