Campus demolition gives the renowned Mackintosh Building a new perspective

FOR the first time in 50 years, one of the most famous and admired buildings in Scotland can be seen with an unrestricted view.

The Mackintosh Building at the Glasgow School of Art (GSA), designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, can now be viewed face-on following the demolition of two 1960s’ buildings on the GSA campus.

A clear view of the full facade can be seen from Dalhousie Street in the Garnethill area.

The two buildings have been removed in preparation for the construction of the £50 million art school building designed by architect Steven Holl.

Work on the new premises, which will be built opposite the Mackintosh Building, is under way, with its foundations due to be laid in the coming weeks.

The building by Steven Holl Architects in partnership with JM Architects will be completed in the summer of 2013.

The demolition of the Foulis Building and Newbery Tower means the full facade of the Mackintosh Building can be seen with an unhindered view.

Professor Seona Reid, director of GSA, said: “For over 100 years, there have been buildings opposite the Mackintosh Building, making it difficult to take a true, front on, photograph of the wonderful north façade in its entirety. The demolition of the Foulis Building and the Newbery Tower opens up that view, providing a once in a lifetime opportunity to capture this important perspective of Mackintosh’s bestknown building.”

The design of Holl’s building has been partially inspired by Mackintosh’s most famous creation, with its use of natural light.

As well as studio space, the building will contain the Centre for Advanced Textiles, digital media spaces, a lecture theatre and exhibition space.

This week, the BBC investigates Mackintosh in its documentary series Sex and Sensibility: The Allure of Art Nouveau.