Glasgow School of Art,
167 Renfrew Street,
1897-1909,
Charles Rennie Mackintosh.

The Glasgow School of Art at 167 Renfrew Street is acknowledged to be Charles Rennie Mackintosh's most famous building.

Financial considerations meant that the building was constructed in two phases. Work started on the eastern portion in 1897 and this was opened in 1899. Construction started on the western portion in 1907, finishing in 1909.

The main facade, facing north, is set back from Renfrew street so the gap from the pavement is bridged by the curving stairs of the main entrance.

The east facade, seen here from across Dalhousie Street lacks much of the detail seen on the rest of the building.

The library lies behind the large three story windows in the west wall. While it is relatively small the library gives an impression of greater space as it rises over two floors with a gallery around the upper level. The internal finish is predominantly of a dark stained wood and light from the west facing windows is supplemented by electric lighting, installed in 1899.

At the top of the main stair, leading off from the entrance hall, is the original museum. Now serving as a temporary exhibition area, the space is top-lit by a glazed roof supported by massive timber trusses.

The Director's room is located in the central tower of the north facade. In contrast to the dark finishes used elsewhere in the school this room is much brighter with a large arched window and white painted wall panels. "