Meet the team – Taylor Butler
As one of Russwood’s Architectural Liaison Technicians, Taylor Butler plays a key role in supporting architects across the UK with technical expertise, CPD delivery, and product guidance. Based in our Glasgow office, but also regularly meeting practices across the UK or at our Newtonmore HQ, Taylor helps bring multiple projects to life. But Taylor’s journey to Russwood has been anything but ordinary. Originally from Sydney, Australia, Taylor has embraced Scotland as home over the past five years — building both a career in architecture and a life in Edinburgh. Find out more in this edition of ‘Meet the Team’.
An architectural journey across continents
Taylor’s interest in architecture began in Sydney, inspired in part by watching Grand Designs and a growing curiosity about how people shape the spaces around them. After enrolling in an architecture degree at Curtin University in Perth, Taylor balanced studies with work. Five and a half years ago, she moved to Edinburgh with her partner Louis, and began working at one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks, Edinburgh Castle.
“It was such a cool job. The views across the city in every season, and learning about Scotland’s medieval history, really blew my mind.”
What was initially meant to be a short trip abroad turned into something far more permanent when the pandemic struck. “We came to Scotland planning to travel and work for a little while before heading home,” Taylor explains. “But when Covid changed everything, we decided to stay…and we’re so glad we did. We’ve found jobs we love, bought our first flat, and really made Edinburgh home.”
Transition to the timber industry
Joining Russwood felt like a natural step for Taylor, who had already developed a strong interest in sustainable materials during her university projects.
“I kept coming back to timber as a material,” Taylor says. “I knew it was sustainable, but I didn’t have the technical knowledge then that I do now. When I saw the opportunity at Russwood, I thought: this is perfect. I can use my architectural degree every day, while working for a family-oriented company that really cares about its products and people.”
No two days are the same in Taylor’s role. One day might involve delivering a CPD to a practice, another answering detailed technical questions about detailing and fixings, and another spent supporting architects with product samples or project guidance.
“What I enjoy most is the variety,” Taylor explains. “I love being able to help architects problem-solve, educate them on timber, and feel like I’m part of something bigger than myself. It’s really rewarding when someone appreciates the support and says they’ve learned something valuable.”
Taylor particularly enjoys working on commercial projects, where creativity and out-of-the-box thinking are at the forefront. “That’s where we get to push products further and really see what’s possible.”
Life beyond the drawing board
Outside of work, Taylor is often found outdoors, hiking, walking, or capturing the world through a camera lens. A passionate photographer, Taylor loves exploring Edinburgh with a Nikon DSLR camera, particularly around Calton Hill.
“It’s my favourite spot,” Taylor says. “You get a 360 view — the Castle, Arthur’s Seat, the sea. I love bringing visitors up there for a picnic and some photos.”
Coffee culture is another big part of Taylor’s life, a nod to Australian roots. “I’m quite passionate about my coffee,” Taylor laughs. “Finding good coffee spots is essential to my culture!” Her top pick in Scotland? Williams & Johnson Coffee Co. in Leith.
Cooking is another way Taylor unwinds, and she likes trying out new gluten-free recipes at home. While her photography subjects often include landscapes and architecture, Taylor admits that people are even more interesting: “I like images that feel nostalgic, that capture a moment in time.”
Looking ahead
In just a short time at Russwood, Taylor has already developed new skills, particularly in public speaking and presentation delivery. Later this year, Taylor will be presenting at our Material Source Glasgow event in collaboration with Lunawood, and looks forward to more opportunities to connect with architects and grow confidence in sharing expertise. Keep an eye out for that!
“I don’t know exactly what the year ahead will bring,” Taylor reflects, “but that’s the fun of it. I’ve already experienced so much progression here, and I’m excited to keep developing, keep helping architects, and keep learning.”
With a unique perspective shaped by an architectural journey across continents, a passion for sustainability, and a creative eye behind the camera, Taylor brings both technical skill and personal flair to the Russwood team.
Would you like to join the team?
We are always keen to hear from people who are interested in working at Russwood both in our yard and office teams. Available positions and details of how to apply speculatively can be found on our careers page.