Meet the local: Ian Greenhill

We caught up with Ian Greenhill, the co-founder of Edinburgh-based creative studio Studio Something, to discuss what he loves most about Edinburgh and why a walk in this beautiful city inspires his creative work.

1. Which areas do you love most within Edinburgh?

Edinburgh is a city I love walking in. I’ve lived here all my life and in so many areas; Fairmilehead, Stockbridge, Trinity, Leith, West End and Colinton. And each one has unique and incredible outdoor spaces and culture to explore… especially with a furry friend. 

Edinburgh really is a collection of wee villages, each with their own different vibe and that makes it perfect for a wander with the wee man; Ernie, my dog. You can turn a corner and find yourself in the Wild West (this is a secret, look it up) or climb to the top of Calton Hill and visit an amazing art gallery in an old observatory. I think the city is a special place, and having a wander is a real treat that gets you off your phone for a while.

2. Which areas do you like walking in?

I love walking any route that takes me along the Water of Leith walkway, whether that’s down along the Dean Path from the Gallery of Modern Art to Stockbridge and seeing the Gormley Statue poking his wee head out, or along the Colinton Dell watching the dippers in the water.

With having two pre-schoolers and running the company, getting out with Ernie means I can grab a coffee and a cake which is a nice bit of peace to think. He doesn’t judge me for secretly grabbing an extra pastry. All he wants is a bite to keep quiet…

3. Can you tell us about studio something?

Studio Something is a creative studio; we come up with everything from TV shows to billboards and everything in between. Working with clients like the BBC, NBA, e.l.f. Beauty, Tennent’s Lager and many more. Last year, we won a Scottish BAFTA and a few international awards, such as CLIO and Broadcast, for our branded work. We have always believed that we can work with global clients from our hometown of Edinburgh.

4. Where can you go for a great cup of coffee?

My favourite central coffee spots are Fortitude, Cairngorm, Twelve Triangles, and Wellington Coffee , oh and you cannot beat the OG Edinburgh coffee roaster Artisan Roast. Don’t let queues fool ya, the best cakes in Edinburgh are from The Pastry Section.

Ernie is also great to go for a pint with. There’s so many special old-school boozers in Edinburgh; The Baillie, The Athletic Arms, Kay’s Bar to name a few. My favourite cocktail bar is either The Last Word or Nauticus, Edinburgh is spoiled for amazing cocktails.

5. Where are the best spots to grab a bite to eat in the city?

Like an old school ad man or Winston Churchill I am a fan of a working lunch. Which means I’ve tried a whole heap of Edinburgh’s amazing food scene. I really love a new relaxed restaurant called Sotto that’s opened in Stockbridge. They have fantastic wines and amazing Italian food. For a quick bite try the best sandwiches in the world at Alby’s. In fact, I used to pass one of their spots every day on my way to our studio and then when it came to having my son there was only one name in my head… yup, he’s named after a sandwich shop.

And hey, I know it’s uncool, but I unironically love Hard Rock Cafe. My dad took me there when I broke up with my first girlfriend. So it holds a special place in my heart. They have a Lionel Messi burger and Hh’s the best player ever.  It’s fun and silly but I think more things should be fun and silly.

Ian Greenhill wears the Portobello Cashmere Roll Neck - Grey, Made in Scotland Melrose Cashmere Crew - Vicuna, Made in Scotland Unisex Sportshirt - Green, Made in Scotland Cashmere Beanie - Grey and our Knitted Cashmere Neck Tie - Grey.

Ernie wears our Knitted Cashmere Neck Tie - Grey.

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