Glasgow Historic Hospitals Architecture, Strathclyde medical buildings, Interesting healthcare Scotland design projects

The Interesting Architecture of Glasgow’s Historic Hospitals

Health Architecture in Strathclyde, western Scotland : Designs + Architects

22 February 2023

Scotland has always been famed for its medicine, and go to Glasgow or Edinburgh and you’ll find beautiful architecture of medical and former medical buildings all over the city.

Of course, times have changed since, with many a rehab centre, hospital and surgery having now popped up, all with rather bland and monotonous designs. That wasn’t always the case though, and whether someone was suffering from a broken leg, addiction or any form of illness they would have been once housed in rather magnificent buildings.

That’s why we decided to take a step back into the past of some of Glasgow’s historic and rather splendid hospital architecture.

The Royal Infirmary

One of the most famous hospitals in Glasgow is the Royal Infirmary, established in 1794. The original hospital building, designed by architect Robert Adam, was a stunning example of neoclassical architecture, with its grand columns and elegant façade.

However, as the hospital grew and expanded over the years, new buildings were added to the site, each with their own architectural style. The most recent addition to the site is the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, which opened in 2015 and boasts a modern design that is a stark contrast to the older buildings on the site.

The Western Infirmary

The hospital, designed by architect James Thomson, is an example of Scottish baronial architecture, with its striking towers and turrets. The hospital was expanded over the years, and new buildings were added to the site in a variety of architectural styles.

Today, the Western Infirmary site is home to the University of Glasgow’s medical school, as well as a number of other healthcare facilities.

The Maternity Hospital

The Glasgow Royal Maternity Hospital, was founded in 1834 and was originally housed in a beautiful Georgian building on St. Mungo Avenue, but as the hospital grew, a new building was constructed on the same site in the early 20th century. The new building was designed by architect James Miller, and it features a stunning art deco façade, with its intricate carvings and decorative elements.

The Southern General

The Southern General Hospital, which opened in 1914 and was designed by architect James Miller and features an impressive neoclassical design. The hospital was expanded over the years, with new buildings being added to the site in a variety of architectural styles. Today, the Southern General Hospital is part of the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital complex.

Victoria Infirmary

The Victoria Infirmary is a stunning example of late Victorian architecture. The hospital was designed by architect Robert Baldie and features a striking red sandstone façade, with intricate carvings and decorative elements. The hospital was expanded over the years, and new buildings were added to the site in a variety of architectural styles. Today, the Victoria Infirmary site is home to a number of healthcare facilities, as well as residential apartments.

Gartnavel Royal

Finally, the Gartnavel Royal Hospital, built in 1921, has a unique architectural style. The hospital was originally designed by architect Robert Lorimer, and it features a mix of Tudor and Scottish baronial architectural elements.

Over the years, new buildings were added to the site, each with their own unique style. Today, the Gartnavel Royal Hospital is part of the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde health board.

Comments on this guide to Glasgow Historic Hospitals Architecture article are welcome.

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