Blantyre stonemason and business founder awarded prestigious trade accolade
Scott Reid, the founder of Stratum Masonry and a skilled stonemason based in Blantyre, has once again been recognised with a prestigious industry award. Reid was bestowed with the title of traditional craftsperson of the year at the esteemed On The Tools awards, marking his second consecutive win at the event. Stratum Masonry, the company he established from his home in Blantyre, is renowned for its restoration work on historical buildings across Scotland.
At the UK-wide ceremony, Reid expressed his gratitude for the acknowledgment, stating, “It’s the second year we’ve received special recognition for our commitment to our craft and industry, particularly in training the next generation. We are proud to be the sole Scottish nominee in the category and to be acknowledged in this manner.”
He went on to highlight the diverse range of projects that Stratum Masonry undertakes, including recent work on residential homes in Hamilton, as well as significant restoration projects on iconic structures such as A- and B-listed buildings in Glasgow’s west end, government buildings, and even a castle in the midst of restoration work.
Reid’s journey into the field of stonemasonry began when he transitioned from a computing course to pursuing a trade, inspired by his grandfather’s encouragement. Over the span of more than 15 years, he has cultivated his expertise in traditional craftsmanship, culminating in the establishment of Stratum six years ago. The company ethos centres around the preservation of Scotland’s architectural heritage, evident in their comprehensive services that range from routine maintenance to specialised restoration tasks.
With a team of up to 20 staff, including three apprentice craftsmen set to qualify this year, Stratum Masonry remains committed to passing on traditional skills and expertise to the next generation. Reid reflected on the company’s growth from its humble beginnings in his spare room to its current standing, emphasising the importance of client trust and team collaboration in achieving their collective success.
In summary, Scott Reid’s commendable recognition at the On The Tools awards not only honours his individual skill and dedication but also underscores the significance of preserving Scotland’s architectural legacy through expert craftsmanship and mentorship of future artisans.