5 architects shortlisted for Glasgow School of Art restoration

Glasgow School of Art has announced the five architecture firms who have been shortlisted to lead the restoration of its fire-damaged Mackintosh building.

They are Avanti Architects, John McAslan and Partners, LDN Architects LLP, Page\Park Architects, and Purcell.

The firms will submit their plans by mid-March. The successful bid will be announced at the end of March.

The Grade A-listed art nouveau Mackintosh building was badly damaged in the blaze on 23 May.

An investigation by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service concluded it was caused by flammable gases from a canister of expanding foam.

The report, released in November, said the gases ignited as they came into contact with the hot surface of a projector in Studio 19.

‘Strong record’

The Glasgow School of Art (GSA) aims to raise £20m towards the eventual cost of restoration.

Liz Davidson, Mackintosh Restoration Project director at GSA, said: “All of the shortlisted practices have a strong record in undertaking major restoration and work in historic buildings, together with an impressive commitment to the use of new technology and the finest craftsmanship.

The Mackintosh library was destroyed in the blaze on 23 May

“They each bring the level of experience and expertise that is vital to the restoration of Mackintosh’s masterpiece.

“We are now looking forward to hearing more about their proposed approaches.”