Imax Glasgow photo, Location, 3D films Scotland, Science Centre movies venue, Architect

Imax Cinema Glasgow Science Centre

Cinema at the Science Centre, Strathclyde design by Building Design Partnership (BDP)

post updated 15 March 2025

photograph © Adrian Welch

Imax Glasgow Cinema

Contact details:

Address: Glasgow Imax Cinema, 50 Pacific Quay, Glasgow, Scotland

Contact: 0141 420 5000

The IMAX at the Science Centre

photo © Adrian Welch

18 Oct 2013 – Cineworld’s new Image Maximum (IMAX) attraction at the Clydeside venue is promising a state-of-the-art digital projection system that delivers lifelike, crystal-clear images. And the new digital projection system will enable more ‘wrap-round’ IMAX movies to be screened at the venue.

Photos from 10 Feb 2011

photograph © Adrian Welch

Design: BDP Architects, Scotland

View of Imax from south with Glasgow Tower beyond:

imax glasgow : image by Adrian Welch

Imax Cinema Glasgow design : BDP Architects

Imax Glasgow Description

Imax Glasgow shows 2D and 3D films and has a digital 12,000 watt sound system. The cinema is located just south of the Science Centre in a shallow pool of water. The design of the Imax building wraps around the cinema, though there is a gap between the inner form and the actual shell. The Imax exterior is memorable, a simple iconic form that works well against the Science Centre building to the north.

imax building photos © Isabelle Lomholt

In the background of the top imax cinema photo (above) is Glasgow Tower, 105m high, designed by Richard Horden Associates with BDP. This tower is the only building in the world capable of turning 360 degrees from the ground up. The aerodynamic structure allows the entire building to turn and face the wind, thus reducing wind resistance. There is a two and a half minute ride to the top but it has been plagued with problems so call before you visit.

Views of the imax building – east close-up; east; west; detail of shell

glasgow imax detail photos by Adrian Welch

Like the Science Mall the Imax Glasgow is made of titanium. This is an expensive but long-lasting material, reflective but supple it gives a softness to the exterior of the cinema building. The Science Centre has good views of the River Clyde over three floors. There is a planetarium, cafes and shop, interactive workshops and live science shows. The cinema is located on the south side closest to the car park.

View of the imax building from south with SECC beyond:

imax glasgow photographs by Adrian Welch

Other buildings by Building Design Partnership in the city include adjacent Glasgow Science Centre and across the River Clyde, SEEL

Richard Horden Architects were awarded first prize for their ‘Wing Tower’ at GSC but controversially the project was essentially taken over by BDP Architects

Glasgow Imax Cinema architect : Building Design Partnership

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Another Glasgow Imax : Lomond Shores Imax Cinema

Building just to the north of the Science Centre over the river:
Clyde Auditorium Glasgow

picture © Isabelle Lomholt