This morning was a classic, wet and overcast day in Glasgow. However, undeterred, I visited a couple of key Mackintosh sites, namely Ruchill Church Hall and the Mackintosh Church which are relatively close to each other near Queen's Cross.

Mackintosh (1868-1928) was a leading architect/designer and a key member of the 'Glasgow Four' which comprised Mackintosh, Herbert MacNair, and the sisters Margaret and Frances McDonald. This group were centred on the Glasgow School of Art (also designed by Mackintosh) and were prolific in the production of decorative works of furniture, architecture, panels, embroideries and graphic material.

It was pleasing to see the Ruchill Church Hall (1898-1899) still being for its original purpose as a church hall/community centre. At time of my visit here there was some sort of play group in process. Refreshments for the public were also available. The Hall , one of Mackintosh's minor works, was built as a mission prior to construction of the adjacent church (not designed by Mackintosh). The image below together with this video clip show the exterior of the Hall. The second video at foot of this posting shows part of the interior.

The Mackintosh Church is contemporary with the Glasgow School of Art (1897-9). It was designed by Mackintosh for architect firm, Honeyman and Keppie. The design reveals a sophisticated handling of form, ornament and symbolic meaning. For an appreciation of the interior see this video clip.

This image shows the pitched, glazed roof of the Mackintosh Church hall with handsome beam structure.


This image shows the barrel-vaulted roof, Nave and Gallery of the Mackintosh Church.

Video no 1 below is the exterior of the Mackintosh Church whilst video no 2 shows interior of Ruchill Church Hall.

Labels: Mackintosh Tours

posted by Nigel Cole @ 9:27 AM