The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) has published a new research report setting out practical ways for Scottish architects to contribute to Ukraine's reconstruction. Authored by Collective Architecture, Oberlanders Architects, Reiach + Hall Architects and Stallan-Brand, it follows their attendance at the ReBuild Ukraine conference in Warsaw in November 2025, alongside the RIAS and Ivan McKee MSP (previously Minister for Public Finance and currently Cabinet Secretary for Public Service Reform).

Intended as a hands-on briefing, the guide helps Scottish architects, practices and allied professionals understand how to participate responsibly, support local practices and navigate a rapidly evolving landscape. It provides essential context on systems and constraints shaping reconstruction, and identifies opportunities for exporting skills and exchanging knowledge.

It first recognises Ukraine's diverse regional identities and layered histories, then examines the delivery realities of rebuilding: construction culture and working practices, procurement routes, regulatory and funding frameworks, professional accreditation, risk, and the role of the international community. The report also considers how to "build back better" to create resilient, low-carbon communities.

Key insights highlighted include:

- Ukraine should not be treated as a conventional export market for design services. The most meaningful engagement for Scottish practices comes from understanding local procedural systems rather than leading with design ambition. Reconstruction is a long-term civic endeavour, so informed participation demands familiarity with Ukraine's complex, highly regulated and multi-layered legal, regulatory, funding and delivery systems.

- International contributions are most effective when they are structured to support, not displace, Ukrainian professionals and prioritise local leadership. This approach is vital for meeting accreditation and regulatory requirements and ensuring projects respond to local needs and work institutionally.

- Recovery offers a chance to rebuild differently and better than before the war, addressing immediate safety needs and long-term development. Rebuilding can deliver a strategic step-change in community-focused planning and social inclusion, integrate modernisation, emphasise environmental responsibility and embed long-term resilience.

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Building on these findings, the contributing practices set out comprehensive guidance for Scottish architects to add value by deepening understanding, prioritising collaboration, building trust and demonstrating long-term commitment and solidarity. The report underscores aligning Scottish competencies with real needs in Ukraine—such as targeted expertise within defined delivery frameworks—which mirrors Scotland's international engagement and growth priorities and creates more tangible foundations for meaningful support at a time of urgent need.

The research was undertaken collaboratively by the RIAS and the four practices, with support from the Scottish Government, and draws on input from construction specialists across Ukraine, the United Kingdom and international institutions.

Minister for Europe, External Affairs and Energy, Stephen Gethins said: "The Scottish Government is committed to supporting Ukraine's recovery from the devastation caused by Russia's illegal invasion as Ukraine defends us all from aggression. This research supports the memorandum of understanding between the Scottish Government and the Government of Ukraine, which promotes economic cooperation and development between our countries. I am pleased that the Scottish Government has supported this work, which provides valuable insight into how Scottish architects and built environment professionals can engage responsibly and effectively in Ukraine's reconstruction.

"I would like to thank the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland and the Scottish architecture practices involved for their commitment to this important research project. By strengthening links, sharing expertise and supporting Ukrainian-led reconstruction efforts, this work helps build the foundations for continued collaboration between Scotland and Ukraine."

Gerry Hogan, Director at Collective Architecture, said: "We are privileged to have undertaken this work in collaboration with the Scottish Government, RIAS and our peers. We are looking forward to the next stage of the process, building on the work undertaken to date and resolving the technical and procedural challenges of working in Ukraine."

Catriona Hill, Partner at Oberlanders Architects, said: "The collaboration with our Scottish and Ukrainian partners has been invaluable. Their input and guidance has ensured that the report accurately reflects how Scottish architects could play an important role in assisting with the future rebuilding effort."

James Grimley, Director at Reiach + Hall Architects, said: "The technical challenges ahead will be demanding, but they offer an incredible opportunity for Ukraine and Scotland to collaborate and drive meaningful progress. We are grateful to the Scottish Government, the RIAS, our Ukrainian collaborators and our fellow architectural practices for the progress made so far, and look forward to the future of this wonderful project."

Alan Garland, Director at Stallan-Brand, said: "This project has demonstrated the value of collaboration across borders, bringing together Scottish and Ukrainian expertise to address complex challenges. We are proud to have contributed to this initiative and look forward to supporting the next stages of Ukraine's recovery and reconstruction. Above all, we have been inspired by the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people. Their unwavering commitment to building a better future is both humbling and hopeful."

Tamsie Thomson, CEO of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland, said: "We have been delighted to work with all four architecture practices to launch this new research report, and are grateful for their expertise, insight and collaboration with Ukrainian and UK construction specialists as well as the support of the Scottish Government. The project not only offers a tangible next step in Scotland's ongoing support of Ukraine's reconstruction, but serves to underpin Scotland's position as a nation that leads with creativity, compassion and vision."

The full report can be viewed here: media.rias.org.uk/files/2026/09/29/80F528DF-21BC-3452-BC41-432F35087E6A.pdf