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Today is one of Scotland’s biggest national celebrations, Burns Night, which commemorates the life of poet and author Robert Burns, born 25th January 1759. In honour of this special day, we raise a wee dram to our members who have been involved in some incredible Scottish interior and architectural designs, which make Scotland’s urban areas so unique, historic and magical.
The Printing Press Bar & Kitchen, Edinburgh
The Printing Press Bar & Kitchen – Goddard Littlefair (Click image to see more)
This new restaurant and bar recently opened in the heart of Edinburgh. The famous building has a rich literary history with the likes of acclaimed novelist Susan Ferrier, Jane Austen and Robert Burns being frequent visitors back in the day. The significant restoration of a listed Georgian townhouse was part of the multi-million-pound investment from The Principal Edinburgh George Street and our member Goddard Littlefair was involved in ensuring the interior design stayed true to its historical roots.
Edinburgh Napier University, Business School
Edinburgh Napier University – BDP (Click image to see more)
The architecturally stunning Craiglockhart campus is home to Edinburgh’s Business School. BDP beautifully merged the old with the new by creating an iconic modern building, the Lindsay Stewart lecture theatre in contrast with the original building. With the famous Wester Craiglockhart Hill sitting proudly behind the campus, we think this is a great example of Scottish architecture and its development through the years.
BT Headquarters, Edinburgh
BT Headquarters – Bennetts Associates (Click image to see more)
This high-profile, energy-efficient building is home to BT headquarters and positioned in Edinburgh Park. Bennetts Associates divided the building into two principal forms: a rectangular building containing all the office accommodation and a red cubed conference block held within a glass and aluminium cylinder. The modern building is contrasted by its natural surroundings with small lakes, a feature of Richard Meier’s original masterplan for the park.
National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh
National Museum of Scotland – Max Fordham (Click image to see more)
The National Museum of Scotland houses priceless collections, from ancient artefacts to contemporary displays. Max Fordham was involved in developing the masterplan for the refurbishment of the Grade-A listed building. This was no small task with servicing needed to provide a solid plan for environmental design, acoustic consultancy, a new entrance, 16 new galleries, new circulation routes, shops and restaurants. The tiered, glass-roofed building is definitely a sight to behold, and a must see when visiting the capital city.
Badger & Co. Edinburgh
Badger & Co. – Tibbatts Abel (Click image to see more)
Badger & Co. bar delivers a quirky, modern and peaceful pub environment to Edinburgh. Tibbatts Abel was definitely inspired by the history of the building, adding interesting features throughout the space and quirky hints to the “Wind and the Willow” book by Kenneth Grahame. The venue has a warm and welcoming feel, where you could easily curl up with a good book and a nice glass of wine.
Wharton Square Housing at Quartermile, Edinburgh
Wharton Square Housing at Quartermile (ex-Royal Infirmary) – Richard Murphy Architects (Click image to see more)
The Quartermile development, by Richard Murphy Architects, created 174 affordable apartments in a single block. The interesting use of jagged shapes really emphasises the industrial feel of the area and provides interesting uses of space for residents. The quality flats housed in a five-storey building sits next to an octagonal central courtyard, allowing communal outdoor space.
Theatre Royal, Glasgow
Theatre Royal, Glasgow – Max Fordham (Click image to see more)
The Theatre Royal is the oldest theatre in Glasgow and Max Fordham’s transformation of the 19th century, Category A-listed building included the remodelling and refurbishment of the main spaces and construction of a new foyer. The design creates dramatic daylighting throughout and reduces the need for artificial lighting. It is home to Scotland’s resident companies, Scottish Opera and Scottish Ballet, and is a unique City Centre venue for conferences, meetings and seminars. The perfect venue to inspire arts and creativity.
Shilling Brewing Co, Glasgow
Shilling Brewing Co. – Jestico + Whiles (Click image to see more)
The brewery and bar are located in a Grade B-listed bank in a prominent corner of Glasgow city. Jestico + Whiles designed the 150-seat brewhouse and kept true to the 1920s architecture by infusing subtle art deco and Egyptian revival details. This is a great place to get a real feel of Scottish history and tastes.