In 1998 Maria Speake and Adam Hills met at Glasgow School of Art whilst studying for a degree in architecture at the Mackintosh School. They founded Retrouvius in 1993, initially as a vehicle for working with the Glasgow conservation world and local demolition firms. Early jobs include several redundant churches.
Their first interior design project came in 1996 – Newmilns Tower, a C16th house in the heart of the traditional lace making area in Ayrshire.
Retrouvius is known for respectfully re-using materials to distinctive, contemporary ends. Taking only a few projects each year, in properties ranging from contemporary penthouse to medieval priory, yacht to boutique, each is attentively tailored to the evolving needs of the client as well as the demands of the site.
Retrouvius generously share their experience of handling salvaged material saved over the years. They aim to demystify the re-use process and inspire others to re-use materials in their own projects.
Retrouvius are driven by the belief that good materials and well-made things are precious. If that resonates with you – their website is full of inspiring photos and ideas.