Architecture Viewing Room

Architecture Introduction

Robin Webster RSA, Architecture Convenor

Traditionally the exhibits in the architectural section of the RSA Annual Exhibition have served as a useful barometer of what was happening in Scotland’s architectural environment and what new ideas were being explored. This is still true to an extent, and with a few notable exceptions, there would appear to be a significant shortage of large buildings in Scotland, although there are three new distilleries, more adaptations and appreciation of existing buildings, and rather a lot of small rural cottages, which may accurately reflect the prevailing economy.

There is however no shortage of ideas. Architects are well placed and equipped to imagine and visualise speculative proposals for buildings and place-making in our urban realm. All architecture has a public face, and it is important that the public realm and public buildings should be open to new ideas, so a platform for informed criticism and debate is something that the RSA is well suited to provide. Richard Murphy RSA has taken a lead with the videos of his proposals for extending Princes Street. He also illustrates the relocation of the Edinburgh Modern Art Galleries 1 and 2 to Princes Street Gardens, where it could connect seamlessly with the existing Scottish National Gallery at one end and Waverley at the other, potentially greatly increasing its footfall while allowing the public gardens to be relocated on the roof. He has also controversially suggested a detailed adjustment to David Chipperfield HRSA’s proposed Concert Hall which is certainly worth further scrutiny.