WORK is to begin on the fit-out period of the revamp of Paisley Museum, as the construction phase of the £68.7 million project completes.
Kier led the construction phase, with AL_A being behind the design of the revamped museum. A Renfrewshire Council project, the local authority has tipped Paisley to be among Europe’s leading museum destinations upon completion.
The museum features a ‘dramatic’ red-glass accessible entrance and panoramic extension to the front – providing a a dynamic and inviting presence on High Street.
The A-listed main building and Coats Observatory – the oldest public observatory in Scotland – have been brought up to and past modern standards, undergoing significant external and internal repairs to deliver refreshed, modern galleries on every floor and double the amount of space available to showcase the Museum’s unique and internationally significant collections.
A new outdoor garden and public space has been created, which opens up previously hidden views of the observatory as a cohesive museum campus is created between the buildings. Dedicated learning spaces and a heritage centre will enhance the visitor experience further, as will a new café-restaurant and shop.
Councillor Lisa-Marie Hughes, Renfrewshire Council’s spokesperson for culture and Chair of OneRen, said, “I’m delighted we’ve reached such an important milestone in the transformation of the Museum as the construction works finish and we now move into the fit-out period ahead of reopening.
“As with many projects involving historic buildings and with this being the first major refurbishment in its 150-year history, there have been challenges, but I’m excited for us to now look forward now to the fit-out process as we create the environment that will allow us to tell the stories of Paisley’s history and its people.
“The building looks incredible and once the fit-out and installation of the objects and exhibitions is complete, we will have a visitor attraction that local people and communities will be proud of and one that will attract thousands of visitors to the town each year who will boost the local economy.
“The Museum is the culmination of a decade of investment in Paisley’s cultural buildings, and in the town itself, which has changed perceptions of the area, given people new reasons to visit, and contributed to it being named Scotland’s Town of the Year. It’s an exciting time to live, work and be a part of Paisley.”
The renovated Museum’s design was produced by international architects AL_A led by Stirling Prize winner Amanda Levete and Matt Wilkinson.
Principal of AL_A, Amanda Levete, added, “Paisley Museum has developed a completely new way of looking at the responsibilities of a museum and the architecture gives this expression and confidence; radical alterations inspired by Paisley’s resilience and capacity for reinvention, light filled spaces for the community in the new wing and a dramatic red entrance that expresses the town’s radical spirit.
“Renfrewshire Council have been a remarkable client and they always had an extraordinary ambition for this project. This is now clear for all to see.”
The project now moves to the fit-out period led by HUB Build with a team of specialist content producers and collections specialists taking a radical and dynamic approach to Renfrewshire’s core collections.
Harry Coughlin, MD museums at HUB Build, added, “The start of the on site installation of the exhibition fit-out at Paisley Museum marks an important step for the project. With the building restored, our focus now turns to integrating the interpretation, showcases and exhibition elements within these revitalised spaces.
“Our team has been carefully preparing and manufacturing the exhibition components in readiness for installation, and we’re now mobilising on site to bring them together with the wider project team and supply chain. This next phase will see the galleries take shape, creating spaces that celebrate Paisley’s rich history and serve the community for generations to come.”
The museum project has been funded by Renfrewshire Council, the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Historic Environment Scotland, and the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Grant Fund, as well as fundraising from donors and benefactors.
Phil McDowell, regional director of Kier Construction North & Scotland, said, “Completing the construction phase of Paisley Museum marks a proud moment for everyone involved. Working on a project of such cultural and architectural importance has been a privilege, and our teams have been committed to ensuring the highest standards throughout.
“As the fit‑out begins, we’re excited to see the building move into its next chapter and to know that our work will help create a landmark destination for the people of Paisley and visitors from further afield.”
The extensive fit-out period and object install programme is now underway and is expected to be completed over the remainder of 2026 ahead of a planned public reopening.
