Danny Campbell — The Visionary Architect Behind HOKO and Scotland’s Home of the Year
When people in the UK talk about modern architecture that feels human, approachable, and forward-thinking, one name often comes up — Danny Campbell. A Scottish architect, entrepreneur, and television presenter, Danny has successfully combined creativity, innovation, and empathy to transform how ordinary people experience architecture. As the founder of HOKO Design and a presenter on BBC’s Scotland’s Home of the Year, Danny Campbell is redefining what it means to make “Architecture for Everyone.”
This article dives deep into his journey — his education, career, philosophy, family life, and the values that have shaped him into one of Scotland’s most recognisable contemporary architects.
Danny Campbell: Early Life and Education
Danny Campbell was born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland, where his fascination with design began at an early age. Known for his curiosity and artistic eye, he pursued his dream through formal architectural education. Danny completed his Bachelor’s degree in Architecture at The Glasgow School of Art between 2008 and 2011, one of the most prestigious art and design schools in the UK. He later earned his Master of Architecture (MArch) from De Montfort University in Leicester in 2015.
These academic experiences gave him not only technical skills but also a strong design philosophy — architecture should improve lives, not just fill skylines.
The Birth of HOKO Design — Architecture for Everyone
A New Kind of Architectural Firm
In 2016, Danny founded HOKO Design Ltd, a startup that aimed to disrupt traditional architectural practice. His goal was simple but radical: make architecture accessible to everyone, not just the wealthy elite. HOKO was built on the principle of transparency, technology, and trust. Through an innovative online platform, HOKO connects homeowners directly with architects, offering a streamlined process for home renovations, extensions, and new builds.
Danny Campbell’s mission — “Architecture for Everyone” — became HOKO’s driving force. The firm quickly gained popularity across Scotland and the UK for its customer-first approach and creative use of virtual reality (VR), allowing clients to visualise their homes before a single brick was laid.
Innovation Meets Empathy
Unlike traditional firms, HOKO focuses on the emotional experience of homeowners. Danny believes that the home is “the most important piece of architecture we ever inhabit.” His team doesn’t just draw plans — they build dreams. Whether it’s a kitchen extension or a modern family home, HOKO designs aim to reflect the client’s story, lifestyle, and aspirations.
The company’s success has been impressive. Within a few years, HOKO grew to employ dozens of staff, raised over £750,000 in investment, and won recognition at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards. Under Danny’s leadership, HOKO is now branching into small-scale housing developments — a move that extends his mission to impact the broader built environment.
Danny Campbell and BBC’s Scotland’s Home of the Year
From Architect to Television Personality
In 2023, Danny Campbell joined the judging panel of BBC Scotland’s Home of the Year, alongside design expert Anna Campbell-Jones and interior stylist Banjo Beale. The show highlights some of the most beautiful, clever, and heartfelt homes across Scotland — from minimalist cottages to bold, contemporary masterpieces.
As a judge, Danny brings his architectural expertise and relatable charm to the screen. His feedback is both insightful and compassionate, always focused on the people behind the design. Viewers quickly warmed to his authenticity, making him one of the most popular additions to the series.
A Natural On-Screen Presence
Danny’s appearances on the show have revealed not only his design sensibility but also his humour and humanity. He often emphasises how architecture is about living well — not showing off. His balance of professionalism and personality has helped make Scotland’s Home of the Year one of BBC Scotland’s most beloved programmes.
His interaction with co-judges Anna and Banjo is filled with laughter, debate, and admiration, reflecting a genuine friendship that translates beautifully on screen. Their chemistry has become part of the show’s success, and Danny’s involvement has elevated his reputation far beyond architectural circles.
Personal Life and Family
Danny Campbell’s Wife Melissa and Family
Behind Danny’s success stands a strong family foundation. He is married to Melissa Campbell, who holds a PhD in psychology and works as a teacher in Glasgow. The couple shares a warm and supportive relationship, often seen together in Danny’s social media posts under his Instagram handle @hoko_danny, where he has over 32,000 followers.
Danny and Melissa are parents to young sons, whom he affectionately refers to in his posts. Despite his busy professional life, Danny prioritises family time and frequently shares heartfelt reflections about balancing entrepreneurship and fatherhood.
He often credits his parents, Caron and Duncan, for instilling resilience and compassion in him. His late younger brother, Duncan L.L. Campbell, was also a source of inspiration. Duncan was a poet and performer whose advocacy for mental health awareness left a profound mark on many. His passing in August 2024 deeply affected Danny, who has spoken publicly about the importance of cherishing family moments.
A Man of Depth and Heart
Danny’s openness about his personal struggles and family experiences has made him more relatable to fans. He often uses his platform to speak about mental health, resilience, and gratitude, reflecting the same humanity that defines his architectural work.
Danny Campbell’s Architectural Style and Philosophy
Danny’s design philosophy blends functionality, emotion, and innovation. His architectural style isn’t defined by one aesthetic — instead, it is about storytelling. Every HOKO project begins with understanding how clients live and what truly matters to them.
He embraces digital tools like VR and AI to enhance the design process, making architecture transparent and interactive. Danny also encourages sustainability and ethical practice, reminding homeowners that good design doesn’t have to mean expensive design.
For him, architecture is as much about people as it is about buildings.
Danny Campbell’s Age and Personality
As of 2025, Danny Campbell is 34 years old. Energetic, creative, and candid, he embodies the modern Scottish entrepreneur. His colleagues describe him as an inspiring leader who balances business growth with genuine care for his team and clients.
He has also been associated with rugby, reflecting his active and team-oriented nature — traits that echo through both his design philosophy and leadership style.
Public Image and Achievements
Danny has received numerous accolades for both his professional and entrepreneurial achievements. HOKO’s innovative model has been praised in national publications for making architectural services transparent and affordable. He was also named among Scotland’s rising creative talents.
Beyond awards, Danny’s impact lies in his ability to make design accessible. Through HOKO and his media work, he has inspired thousands of homeowners to see architecture as something approachable — a partnership rather than a privilege.
Challenges and Lessons
Like many ambitious founders, Danny has faced challenges too. The growth of HOKO required managing teams, clients, and public expectations. He has spoken about moments of burnout and the need to balance passion with self-care. His honesty about these experiences adds depth to his public image — that of a man constantly learning, adapting, and staying true to his values.
Legacy and Future Vision
Danny Campbell’s long-term vision is clear — to make HOKO a household name and to keep proving that great architecture can be for everyone. He continues to lead by example, merging technology, creativity, and empathy to reshape the industry. Whether he’s in the studio, on a BBC set, or at home with his family, his philosophy remains consistent: design with purpose and live with authenticity.
FAQs
1. Who is Danny Campbell?
Danny Campbell is a Scottish architect, entrepreneur, and television presenter. He is the founder of HOKO Design Ltd and a judge on BBC’s Scotland’s Home of the Year, known for his innovative and people-focused approach to residential architecture.
2. How old is Danny Campbell?
As of 2025, Danny Campbell is 34 years old. Born and raised in Glasgow, he has quickly become one of Scotland’s most recognisable young architects.
3. Who is Danny Campbell’s wife?
Danny Campbell is married to Melissa Campbell, a psychology PhD and teacher based in Glasgow. The couple shares a strong family bond and have young sons together.
4. What is HOKO Design?
HOKO Design is Danny Campbell’s architectural company, founded in 2016. The firm focuses on making architecture accessible to everyone through technology, virtual reality, and transparent client engagement.
5. What TV show is Danny Campbell on?
Danny Campbell appears as a presenter and judge on BBC’s Scotland’s Home of the Year, where he showcases Scotland’s most inspiring and creative homes alongside co-judges Anna Campbell-Jones and Banjo Beale.
Conclusion
Danny Campbell is more than just an architect — he’s a storyteller, innovator, and advocate for human-centred design. From the classrooms of The Glasgow School of Art to the bright lights of BBC Scotland, his journey reflects passion, resilience, and purpose. Through HOKO Design, he has created a movement that redefines architecture in the 21st century. And through his presence on Scotland’s Home of the Year, he continues to remind us that home is not just a structure — it’s where life truly happens.
