THE design team that will lead the restoration of the world-renowned Mackintosh Building has been announced.
Following the fire that devastated the Glasgow School of Art building last year, Glasgow-based Page / Park Architects were chosen from a shortlist of five firms that bid for the role.
Page / Park will now work on a detailed restoration plan, with work expected to start in spring 2016.
Prof Tom Inns, Director of the Glasgow School of Art, said, “The team assembled by Page \ Park Architects impressed us not only with their deep knowledge of the building, but of the wider work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
“They also bring an understanding of the building’s particular importance to Glasgow – its people and history – as well as of its status as an international design icon.”
“Page \ Park Architects have ongoing relationships with key crafts specialists and artists in Scotland and wider afield, and presented exciting proposals for expanding the legacy of the restoration by working with a new generation of creative talent.”
“This is the beginning of an exciting journey of discovery. There will be many fascinating questions to be addressed as we undertake this complex restoration project. We are looking forward to working in partnership with Page \ Park Architects and the design team to explore how we can best meet the needs of the GSA in the 21st century whilst remaining true to Mackintosh’s astonishing vision.”
David Page, Head of Architecture at Page/Park Architects, added, “Page \ Park Architects are delighted to have won the commission to lead a team to restore the world-renowned Charles Rennie Mackintosh Glasgow School of Art.
“We have, over many years, had the privilege to work on and in the context of the Mackintosh legacy, the highlight of which will now be the opportunity to bring The Glasgow School of Art into splendid re-use for its students and staff, the people of Glasgow and the huge audience beyond the city.”
The art school is currently continuing efforts to raise the necessary £20 million to pay for the restoration.
Page / Park have previous experience on a number of Mackintosh’s historic buildings. They were lead designers for the Mackintosh Conservation and Access Project from 2007-2009 and have worked on both the Hillhouse and the former Glasgow Herald Offices – now The Lighthouse building.
It is anticipated the restoration will reconstruct the landmark building’s renowned library, which was destroyed in the blaze.
Firefighters managed to rescue 90% of the Mackintosh Building and around 70% of its contents.
Page / Park’s recent projects include the Kelvingrove Bandstand, the Theatre Royal building and developing Glasgow’s Kelvin Hall into a new cultural space.
