March 21 2024

Oliver Chapman, the founder of Oliver Chapman Architects (OCA), has passed away his practice has announced.

Chapman founded the studio in 1997 with an emphasis on the sensitive re-use of historic buildings, a passion which saw him serve as architectural assessor for the annual Civic Trust Award.

This work culminated with wide recognition for their achievements at key projects including the Egg Shed, a heritage and community centre formed from the bones of a former transit shed in Ardrishaig and the Flitch House, a garden room extension to an Arts & Crafts home in Edinburgh.

In a statement posted to social media OCA wrote: "We are deeply saddened to share the news of the death of our founding director, Oliver Chapman. Oliver cared deeply about his craft. His interest in architecture ran the gamut of the profession; city place-making to careful detailing; ideas and conversation; his care for his community, collaborators, students and colleagues; and always exploring, learning and sharing.

"While the time will come to talk about his legacy, right now we are feeling the loss of our mentor, colleague and friend. Our thoughts are with his wife Tessa and his family."

The practice recently marked its 25th anniversary by transitioning to employee ownership, a move which saw Martin Lambie promoted to director and Cat Liggat and Anna McLuckie made associates. 

7 Comments

#1 Posted by J on 21 Mar 2024 at 12:03 PM

Awful news. I had my first introduction to architecture through a model making evening at OCA when I was still in high school. Wouldn't be doing what I do today, or have the interests I do without that commitment to nurture the profession.

#2 Posted by Jamie Brown on 21 Mar 2024 at 12:26 PM

It's such sad news. I only met Oliver once, but we had a great chat - I remember being struck by his gentle and kind manner; and deeply impressed by the way he spoke about architecture.

#3 Posted by John on 21 Mar 2024 at 12:30 PM

Such sad news, a big name in the Scottish architecture scene and his contributions both in the professional and academic circle will be sorely missed. I remember his talks at 5710 RGU from student days, always a good one!

Lost out on a couple of projects to OCA over the years, but happy to have done so to a gent like Oliver.

My sincere condolences to friends, family and colleagues. All the best for the future of OCA, I'm sure with Martin et al at the helm you are well placed to continue Oliver's legacy.

#4 Posted by :( on 21 Mar 2024 at 13:12 PM

This is terribly sad news.

#5 Posted by James Hepburn on 21 Mar 2024 at 13:21 PM

That is just so sad.

#6 Posted by Ola Uduku on 23 Mar 2024 at 00:07 AM

Kind considered and compassionate, he was an absolute gentleman to have had dealings with. His commitment to architecture was equally so. A great tree is no more - we mourn his loss but celebrate his life.

#7 Posted by Francis Newton on 25 Mar 2024 at 13:50 PM

That's very sad news. I'd not seen Oliver for a number of years but always a gentleman and a pleasure to work with. A talented, sensitive designer and urban thinker. RIP and thoughts with him family and colleagues,

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