Glasgow School of Art

The building was designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

Mackintosh, after his proposal won a competition set to find a design for the school, in 1896.

It was built in two stages from 1897-1899 and completed in 1907.

Much of the inspiration for his design came from nature and from his drawings of traditional Scottish buildings.

He was also influenced by the Art Nouveau style, particularly the illustrations of Aubrey Beardsley.

The school is now regarded as Mackintosh's architectural masterpiece and gives full expression to his architectural ideals.

It is rooted in tradition, with a thoroughly modern-looking exterior of extreme austerity, and there are medieval, castle-like features such as turrets and curving stair wells.

The interior is both spacious and utilitarian and shows perfectly his desire to create a unified and harmonious working environment for both students and teachers.

The studio walls and high ceilings are painted white, with huge windows allowing light to pour into the spaces. The corridors and staircases are decorated with glazed coloured tiles to help guide students and staff around the massive building.

In the spectacular two-storey library Mackintosh also designed the light fittings, bookcases and the oak furniture.

There are symbols of nature everywhere throughout the building, used to inspire the students to produce their own works of art. And who could fail to be inspired in such a stunning environment.

Entry to the school is by guided tour only which visits the main rooms containing many of the well-known pieces of furniture and includes the famous library. It is still a working art school, so take note of the annual closing.