Architecture centre (as a pop-up) to launch in Edinburgh

AN anticipated forerunner to a permanent architecture centre in Edinburgh is being launched, to coincide with an upcoming global conference on climate change, taking place in Glasgow.

SpaCE is primarily the brainchild of architect, Rab Bennetts, and is to be located in the capital’s former main fire station, by the Edinburgh College of Art, in Lauriston Place.

It has been launched to coincide with the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference, COP26, taking place in Glasgow, beginning on the 31st of this month.

SpaCE stands for ‘Space for Architecture + Carbon + Environment’ and will be operating for five weeks.

Says a media release issued by Bennetts Associates (here): “The initial programme is intended as a pilot for a longer-term facility in the capital and has been made possible thanks to support from the Scottish Government and organisations including the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS).”

Funding has been secured from the National Lottery (through Creative Scotland), the Scottish Government, Historic Environment Scotland, City of Edinburgh Council, and a wide range of private sector companies representing architecture, engineering, surveying and construction, together with several individuals.

The release adds: “The opening of SpACE in Edinburgh is a long-needed public forum with a clear focus on how the built environment is critical in addressing the climate emergency.”

The facility is being billed as a public centre for architecture, carbon and the environment for Scotland.

Continues the release: “All sectors within the built environment is involved including architects, engineers, heritage bodies, developers, environmental specialists, universities, planners and researchers.

“As a result, SpACE will take a multi-disciplinary approach, encouraging collaboration between professionals to shape public debate and understanding. SpACE will enhance Edinburgh’s and Scotland’s high level climate policies by bringing them to life through talks, workshops and displays about the practical measures and behavioural changes needed on the ground.”

SpaCE is expected to host a regular series of workshops and other events, including film presentations.

Picture credit: Place Design Scotland