Hamilton Mausoleum and Keeper’s Lodge
In 2020, the Hamilton Mausoleum Trust and the Glasgow Institute of Architects initiated a competition seeking innovative proposals to preserve the historic Hamilton Mausoleum and Keeper’s Lodge for future generations. Our proposal envisions repurposing the structures into a Storytelling Centre and Writers Retreat, complemented by a new Gatehouse building to enhance visitor experiences for the Low Parks Museum, which oversees both properties. The Mausoleum's upper level would host oral storytelling sessions, facilitated by a versatile velvet curtain to modulate acoustics and accommodate various performance styles. Meanwhile, the crypt would house a newly accessible archive from the museum's collections, enriching the cultural narrative of the site.
Inspired by the Mausoleum's architecture, the proposed Gatehouse is designed with a similar footprint and features a 'fish scale' motif also found on the historic gates. This multifunctional space would serve as a visitor center, café, shop, and staff offices. Additionally, the Keeper’s Lodge would be transformed into a creative hub offering writer residencies, generating revenue for the museum while fostering artistic inspiration. Through carefully selected materials and architectural forms, our design narrative creates a series of ‘echoes’ to the past.
Our scheme won 2nd place in the design competition. The submission was produced in collaboration with Ryan Wilson.
Location: Hamilton, UK
Client: GIA/ Hamilton Mausoleum Trust
Year: 2020
Status: 2nd place runner-up in the competition