Doolan moola

November 8 2008

This years premier financially remunerating award, the RIAS Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award, has been bestowed jointly upon Elder and Cannon for their Castlemilk Stables restoration and Bennetts Associates for Potterrow. Gareth Hoskins Architects had to make do with a commendation on the crowded winners podium for their Culloden Battlefield Visitors Centre.

The confounded judging panel chose to divvy up the honours after debate hit a three way log jam. The resultant dead heat proving to be a first for the United Kingdom’s largest architecture prize.

The winning entrants were announced by Linda Fabiani MSP, Minister for Europe, External Affairs and Culture, the tension proved palpable as the judges sealed deliberations were digested then promulgated.

In her introductory speech Fabiani acknowledged concerns from the audience pertaining to the government’s commitment to architecture following the Six Cities chop. The opportunity was taken to stress an appreciation of design and reiterate funding commitments to the Lighthouse.

The Scottish Government has this year increased its contribution to the award.

All images © Alan Jones