Scotland's Top Architecture: Tower, Bridge, Campus, and Garden Gems Shine Bright

Four very different projects have been selected as finalists for Scotland's most prestigious architecture award, the Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award. The finalists include a restored Renaissance tower, a modern road bridge, a university building designed for collaboration, and a revitalized city garden. The award, run by the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland, celebrates the best new buildings in the country. The winner will be announced in December after a panel of experts visits each site and judges them on design, usefulness, and sustainability.

Fairburn Tower, located in the Highlands, is a rare example of a Scottish Renaissance tower house. Built in the 16th Century and expanded in the 17th, it had fallen into disrepair and was listed as a building at risk. The Landmark Trust saw its potential and restored it as a luxurious holiday let. The renovation kept many original features, such as ceiling beams, wooden doors, and shutters, while adding modern comforts like electricity and plumbing. The interior is decorated with painted ceilings, plush rugs, and wall hangings, blending old and new styles. The restoration was done with great care to respect the tower's history and character.

The Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge in Aberdeenshire is another finalist. This new bridge was built to take traffic away from the historic Gairnshiel Bridge, which is now reserved for pedestrians. The Jubilee Bridge is made from recycled granite and weathering steel, materials that help it blend into the Cairngorms landscape. Its clean, bold design is both practical and attractive, providing a safe crossing for vehicles while preserving the old bridge for future generations.

The Nucleus Building at the University of Edinburgh was designed to be the heart of the campus. It brings together teaching, learning, and social spaces in a bright, modern environment. The building features large windows, open areas for group work, and quiet spots for individual study. There are laboratories, classrooms, and comfortable seating throughout. The Nucleus aims to support different ways of learning and create a welcoming atmosphere for students and staff.

Union Terrace Gardens in Aberdeen has been transformed into a vibrant civic space. The project included extensive landscaping, new pathways, and the construction of three lantern-like pavilions that house a café, restaurant, and wine bar. Historic elements such as statues, railings, and Victorian toilets were carefully restored. The gardens now serve as a green oasis in the city center, offering a clean, attractive space for people to relax and enjoy.

The Doolan Award was established in memory of Andy Doolan, a Scottish architect who believed in the importance of good design. The judges will consider architectural integrity, usability, context, and sustainability when choosing the winner. This year's finalists show how architecture can respond to changing needs and improve public spaces, making Scotland a better place to live.