Scotland’s Festival of Architecture 2016
To celebrate the year of innovation, architecture and design, The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland led a major country-wide celebration of the nation’s awe-inspiring creative contributions and achievements. Attracting over 1.2 million visitors, hundreds of inspiring events took place across Scotland throughout 2016, including exhibitions, musical celebrations, workshops, film screenings and lectures.
The grande finalé took place in Dundee on November 18th, marked by a vibrant street celebration and Christmas Lights Night to recognise the city’s waterfront regeneration. During the ceremony, Glasgow’s iconic 4-storey Princes Square shopping centre was announced as Scotland’s favourite building. Completed in 1841, this Grade ‘B’ listed building was named in celebration of the birth of Edward VII and is now home to a number of distinctive retailers and eateries.
Current events
There’s still plenty of time to enjoy some of the highlights of the Festival of Architecture, with events and exhibitions set to continue until February 2017. Here’s a list of our favourite picks for the remainder of Scotland’s Festival of Architecture. Some great activities and events to enjoy over the festive period and into the New Year.
A Brisk Walk: Buildings at Risk tour
Audio walking tour. Glasgow. Until 31st Dec. 2016. Free download. An architectural tour of six of the city’s forgotten derelict buildings, revealing their overlooked beauty, hidden promise and future potential. Narrated by Johnny Rodger, Professor of Urban Literature at Glasgow School of Art,
Cinema City Treasure Hunt
Audio adventure. Glasgow. Until 31st Dec. 2016 . £1.99 per download Taking you through 100 years of cinema history, this interactive audio walking tour is a great activity for the whole family to enjoy. Looking beneath the surface of many a familiar place, cinema historian Gordon Barr reveals the forgotten characters and hidden stories of cinemas past.
Glasgow’s Landmarks
Audio walking tour. Until 31st Dec. 2016. Free. Revealing the changing fortunes and culture of a dynamic, industrial city, this audio tour takes you from the Cathedral to Clydeport – meeting experts at each stop – to explore inside and around some of Glasgow’s most historic landmarks. A great solo or family activity for a crisp winter’s day.
Guided Tours of Pollokshaws Burgh Hall
Glasgow. Until 15th December 2016. Free. Designed by architect Robert Rowland Anderson in 1895-98, Pollockshaws Burgh Hall is a Grade ‘A’ listed building in the south side of Glasgow and home to the world-renowned Burrell Collection. This guided tour provides an opportunity for visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Anderson, study his original plans and discover the cultural significance of this beautiful building.
Out of their Heads: Building Portraits of Scottish Architects
Exhibition. Scottish National Portrait Gallery. Until 5th February 2017. Free entry. Showcasing collections of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and the Royal Incorporation of Architects, this powerful exhibition explores the key figures and designs responsible for some of Scotland’s world-renowned architectural marvels and heritage.
For more information on the remaining events, download the latest festival programme here.
Vanilla Square – highly personal sales and lettings!
Whether selling or letting property, you will always be liaising with one of our business partners, which makes our service that much more responsible and approachable. When you instruct us, your property will reach a wider audience as we are one of the few agents who are present on all the major property portals to offer sellers and landlords maximum exposure. If you’re looking to buy, sell, rent or lease your property, or you’re simply considering the idea, contact us by calling 0141 229 0210 or pop into our new office at 711 Great Western Road. One of our partners will be delighted to help and provide you with impartial, expert advice.
