Drawing inspiration from the local landscape and culture the Scottish Parliament building’s futuristic forms are a definite departure from the norm.
Architect Enric Miralles referenced boats, the Scottish cross, and the flower paintings of Charles Rennie Mackintosh to name a few sources.
Although his proposal came in second place, he was awarded the contract because of his inclusion of those national motifs.
Seen throughout the campus is an extreme attention to detail such as the ceiling of the debating chamber and custom furnishings in many rooms.
The public opinion was unfortunately overshadowed by a controversy surrounding the budget and timeline. To the architectural community, however, the campus was seen as a marvelous design that later received several awards.
One of the judges called it “an icon of organic resolution, …knitting together nature and culture into a complex union.”
In recent years public opinion has changed to view the Scottish Parliament in a more positive light.
By taking the local culture and landscape into consideration, Miralles created a unique expression. It will be interesting to see if other government buildings follow his bold example.
Journey on to another crazy building here.
