A stunning transformation of a 150-year-old Victorian garden in Aberdeen has earned recognition as one of Scotland's most outstanding architectural achievements. The Union Terrace Gardens renovation project, completed by architecture studios Stallan-Brand and LDA Design, has been shortlisted for the prestigious RIAS Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award, with the winner to be announced on December 5.
The ambitious public realm regeneration project breathed new life into the historic 1870s garden while seamlessly integrating modern architectural elements. The renovation included the addition of new bridges connecting different areas of the site and three distinctive "lantern-like" pavilions that serve as focal points throughout the garden space. These contemporary structures were carefully designed to complement rather than compete with the Victorian heritage of the original landscape.
Rowan Morrice, senior architect at Stallan-Brand, explained the project's holistic approach during a video feature produced in collaboration with the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS). "What really tied the scheme together is that the landscape scheme had the place for the architecture, civil engineering [and] heritage that took all of the elements of the gardens that were successful and made them better," Morrice said. The architect emphasized that the pavilions were strategically "added into the landscape to provide attractive uses that would bring people into the gardens."
The project has had a transformative impact on Aberdeen's city center, according to local officials. Laura Robertson, senior planner for Aberdeen City Council, highlighted the renovation's role as "a catalyst for the wider improvements to the city center." The revitalized gardens now serve as a vibrant community space that has strengthened connections between different areas of the city while providing residents and visitors with an enhanced public gathering place.
The Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award, established in 2002, represents one of the country's most significant architectural honors. This year's shortlist features four exceptional projects that "celebrate architecture's place alongside other disciplines," spanning from rural infrastructure developments to urban public-realm initiatives. Union Terrace Gardens faces competition from three other notable projects: the historic Fairburn Tower renovation by Simpson Brown, the innovative Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge by Moxon Architects, and The Nucleus Building by Sheppard Robson.
The recognition of Union Terrace Gardens reflects a growing appreciation for projects that successfully blend historical preservation with contemporary design innovation. The Aberdeen project demonstrates how thoughtful architectural intervention can revitalize neglected urban spaces while honoring their cultural heritage, creating lasting benefits for local communities and setting new standards for public realm design across Scotland.
