Discover the Works of Mackintosh in Glasgow

Whether you’re a fan of Charles Rennie Mackintosh or simply appreciate good design, Glasgow is the city to head to if you’d love to see any of it up close. As a designer of both artistic and practical works, Mackintosh is remembered as one of Glasgow, and Scotland for that matter’s, best known architects. As for the city he was born in – Glasgow - Mackintosh left his mark in full as can be seen by visitors with even a passing interest in architecture. All across the city there are examples of his work, from buildings of all types to sculptures and pieces of public art that can be found in each and every corner.





Mackintosh is famous for being one of the main, if not the most important, exponents of Art Nouveau, which is a highly stylised form of design that used plant and flower motifs alongside flowing curvilinear forms as a rebellious response to the more stoic academic designs of the period. Art Nouveau’s popularity was at its height between the years of 1890 and 1905, which is a relatively short period of time in the bigger picture, but it was the perfect time for Mackintosh to get involved and propel this design form into the public eye. Thanks to his dedication to creating architectural forms with beauty as well as command, the appearance of Glasgow can change radically as one walks through the city. On one street corner you may find an old building that has been constructed with classical aesthetics in mind: straight lines, clear, commanding design and a high consideration of functionality as well as appearance. Opposite it, there may be one of Mackintosh’s buildings: arched, grand, ornamented and beautiful.

For those who’d love a closer look at Glasgow’s favourite architect’s work, there are a few buildings that are must-visits. Although most of the buildings Mackintosh designed in his short, ten year career in the industry are worth a visit, there are a couple of well-known edifices that exemplify his art tremendously. They are the Royal Highland Fusiliers Regimental Museum, and the Lighthouse – the former offices of the Glasgow Herald and a favourite Mackintosh construction among locals.





A visit to either of these will give you the perfect idea of Mackintosh’s work and an insight into the wonder of Art Nouveau. Just try not to get too disappointed when you return to your modern hotels in Glasgow - whilst not every building can be a Mackintosh, most buildings in Glasgow are beautiful in their own right.





Paul Buchanan writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.