Charles Rennie Mackintosh was born at 70 Parson Street, Townhead, Glasgow. He is one of the city’s most loved sons with his work remaining a huge part of Glasgow’s architectural history.
Some of his finest pieces of work in the city are currently unable to be visited with his masterpiece, Glasgow School of Art having faced difficult times in the past decade as two fires have badly damaged the building. However, several sites are still open where you can enjoy afternoon tea in stunning surroundings or escape city life down to the coastal town of Helensburgh to view some of Mackintosh’s work.
The Charles Rennie Mackintosh Society’s Executive Director, Stuart Robertson said: “I think he is very important. He’s an icon and not just an architect. He was an amazing artist and designer, Glasgow has always been very design influenced and Mackintosh has been used as a tourist attraction for people to come to Glasgow. The thing about Mackintosh is, although it is over 150 years ago since he was born, his designs are still relevant today.”
Here are some of the main Charles Rennie Mackintosh attractions in and around Glasgow.
5. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
Inside Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum you can view some of Mackintosh’s work which includes furniture, stained glass, jewellery and much more with admission being free. | Google Maps
6. Mackintosh at the Willow
Although there may be several Willow Tea Rooms in Glasgow, the original can be found on Sauchiehall Street. Mackintosh designed The Willow Team Rooms for Kate Cranston in 1903. He designed everything down to the cutlery and waitress dresses. Photo: Google Maps
7. Queen’s Cross Church
The Queen’s Cross Church is the only church in existence to be designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh with it first opening in 1899. It is currently home to the Gaia exhibition with space also being used for a number of events. Photo: via WikiCommons
8. Martyrs’ School
Martyrs’ School can be found on the same street (Parson Street) where Charles Rennie Mackintosh was born in Townhead. | Google Maps