Glasgow School of Art

bespoke furniture + joinery

Scotland

For many in Scotland, and around the world, the whimsical and highly decorative interiors of the original Glasgow School of Art remain Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s masterpiece. Laurence McIntosh was given the unique privilege of being selected to fully rebuild the school’s well-renowned library bays.

This was no ordinary commission for our workshop. Laurence McIntosh has had the privilege to work on many iconic Scottish buildings over our 75 year history, but the eyes of the world where quite literally on Glasgow as the GSA sought to return to life.

This was a project rooted in deep respect, led personally by our owner, David MacDonald. David poured over every drawing, carving, and joint. He ensured that each element was faithful to the original design and executed to the highest standard.

"It was vital that we executed these designs exactly as Charles Rennie Mackintosh would have wanted."

– david macdonald

Every material told a story. We sourced cut nails from the Glasgow Steel Nail Company, now operating in Massachusetts. The firm continues the square cut nail tradition once used in Glasgow before the shipyards closed and the original company folded. We used specialist paint to recreate the look of historic lead finishes. The framing timbers came from British Columbia, while maple was sourced from the Eastern Seaboard.

The result was a prototype that stayed true to Mackintosh’s vision. It remains one of the most meaningful projects we have ever undertaken.

"The eyes of the
world were on glasgow "

The prototype is now dismantled and carefully stored. We hope it will one day be reassembled as part of a restored Glasgow School of Art. The Mackintosh Building is more than a structure. It is a symbol of Glasgow’s history and creative spirit. To see it return would be to witness a renewal of that spirit for future generations.

CLIENT

GLASGOW SCHOOL OF ART

bespoke furniture + joinery