
The Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Edinburgh
Key Facts
Client
National Galleries of Scotland
Location
Edinburgh
Value
£17,600,000
Completion
April 2011
Clever internal re-organisation transforms this grand dame of Queen Street
Project Info
The Scottish National Portrait Gallery is a remarkable Edinburgh building, opened in 1889 to designs by Rowand Anderson, and held in great affection by many. In part this is related to its:
- Distinctive urban form.
- Witty baronial gothic aspect set in the heart of Edinburgh New Town.
- The unique juxtaposition of exquisite taste and robust industrial technologies.
There is a general presumption against altering historic fabric without good reason but underlying the delightful form of the building was its subdivision between two users, the National Galleries and National Museums. Various investments over the last decade freed the building to be reconciled into one gallery necessitating an exciting and unifying change.
Although the envelope of the building had been well maintained the interior of the building had become worn in its finishes. The aim was to improve the safety of the Collection from fire and water, be adaptable and flexible to suit the changing needs of a gallery environment and deliver a high-quality product that will stand up to the ongoing wear and tear of a gallery environment.



Testimonial
“Scotland’s national portraits at last have a home worthy of them. Our great iconic building now looks tremendous and is the perfect showcase for our rich and unique collection.”
James Holloway Former Director of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Selected Awards
Scottish Design Awards 2012 - Leisure / Culture Building
RIBA Award 2012
GIA Conservation Award
Special Mention for the Andy Doolan Award 2012
Carbon Trust Low Carbon Building Award 2012
Building Conservation Award, RICS Scotland Awards 2013
Scotland Project of the Year Award, RICS Scotland Awards 2013
Highly Commended in Public Buildings category, Lighting Design Awards 2013
UK Property Award 2013
National Civic Trust Award 2013