GLASGOW.- There was a major step forward in the restoration of the Mackintosh Building today, Tuesday 31 March 2015, as The Glasgow School of Art announced the appointment of a design team led by Page \ Park Architects. The appointment was made following presentations by a shortlist of five practices earlier this month.

The Glasgow-based architects have an extensive track record in both restoring and reinvigorating major historic buildings. They have also worked across the spectrum of Mackintosh's designs from the domestic at the Hillhouse, through commercial at the former Glasgow Herald offices - now the Lighthouse, to his finest cultural and academic work at the School of Art itself - as lead designers for the Heritage Lottery Fund supported Mackintosh Conservation and Access Project (2007-9)

“The team assembled by Page \ Park Architects impressed us not only with their deep knowledge of the building, but of the wider work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh,” says Professor Tom Inns, Director of The Glasgow School of Art. “They displayed a superb methodology to the task of restoration – in particular their room by room analysis of the structure, materiality, craftsmanship and intent of Mackintosh in designing, specifying and overseeing the construction of his masterwork. “They also bring an understanding of the building’s particular importance to Glasgow – its people and history - as well as of its status as an international design icon.”

“Although the design team will lead the programme, the GSA will have a fundamental role in the development of the detailed restoration plan. We were particularly impressed by their openness to work in partnership with the GSA as we set out on an exciting journey of discovery.

There will be many fascinating questions to be addressed as we undertake this complex restoration project. We are looking forward to working with Page \ Park Architects and the design team to explore how we can best meet the needs of the GSA in the 21st century whilst remaining true to Mackintosh’s astonishing vision.”

“Page \ Park Architects are delighted to have won the commission to lead a team to restore the world renowned Charles Rennie Mackintosh Glasgow School of Art,” says David Page, Head of Architecture at Page \ Park Architects . “We have, over many years, had the privilege to work on and in the context of the Mackintosh legacy, the highlight of which will now be the opportunity to bring The Glasgow School of Art into splendid re-use for its students and staff, the people of Glasgow and the huge audience beyond the city.”

Page \ Park Architects have ongoing relationships with key crafts specialists and artists in Scotland and wider afield, and presented exciting proposals for expanding the legacy of the restoration by working with a new generation of creative talent. They will also establish an external expert advisory panel for the restoration. Further details on the composition and role of the panel will be released in the coming weeks.

The design team will now work with The Glasgow School of Art to develop the detailed plan for the restoration. Work is expected to start on the building in spring 2016 with the aspiration that there will be academic access from 2017-8.