A sensitive accessibility-led intervention within the National Library of Scotland's Category A Listed headquarters in Edinburgh. The project improves inclusive access to one of Scotland's most important cultural institutions while preserving the character and significance of its historic entrance hall.
National Library of Scotland
The National Library of Scotland is one of the country's most significant cultural institutions, holding millions of books, manuscripts, archives and maps within a diverse estate of buildings across Scotland. Through its Professional Property Services Framework appointment, Reiach and Hall Architects has been commissioned to support the ongoing improvement and maintenance of the library’s estate.
This commission focuses on the public entrance to the National Library's George IV Bridge building in Edinburgh, a Category A Listed landmark designed by Reginald Fairlie and completed in 1956. While the entrance hall forms an important part of the building's civic character, existing platform lifts no longer meet modern accessibility expectations, creating challenges for wheelchair users and requiring staff supervision.
The proposals replace the existing platform lifts with larger, BS 8300-compliant lifts, improving accessibility, independence and equality of experience for all visitors. The design removes later additions that have contributed to visual clutter, reorganises supporting services and storage, and introduces a clearer and more welcoming arrival sequence.
Working within a highly significant heritage environment, the project carefully balances accessibility, conservation and contemporary design. New interventions include bespoke integrated cabinetry, discreet lift controls, frameless glass balustrades and the careful reuse of existing Burlington slate and marble finishes. The result is a more inclusive entrance that respects and reinforces the original architectural intent of this nationally important building.
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Client
National Library of ScotlandProject Type
Accessibility Upgrade and Heritage RetrofitLocation
George IV Bridge, EdinburghBuilding Status
Category A Listed Building -
Client
National Library of ScotlandArchitect and Lead Consultant
Reiach and Hall ArchitectsProject Management / Cost Consultant / Principal Designer
Turner & TownsendStructural Engineer
Narro AssociatesServices Engineer
Wallace Whittle -
The National Library of Scotland is one of the country's most significant cultural institutions, holding millions of books, manuscripts, archives and maps within a diverse estate of buildings across Scotland. Through its Professional Property Services Framework appointment, Reiach and Hall Architects has been commissioned to support the ongoing improvement and maintenance of the library’s estate.
This commission focuses on the public entrance to the National Library's George IV Bridge building in Edinburgh, a Category A Listed landmark designed by Reginald Fairlie and completed in 1956. While the entrance hall forms an important part of the building's civic character, existing platform lifts no longer meet modern accessibility expectations, creating challenges for wheelchair users and requiring staff supervision.
The proposals replace the existing platform lifts with larger, BS 8300-compliant lifts, improving accessibility, independence and equality of experience for all visitors. The design removes later additions that have contributed to visual clutter, reorganises supporting services and storage, and introduces a clearer and more welcoming arrival sequence.
Working within a highly significant heritage environment, the project carefully balances accessibility, conservation and contemporary design. New interventions include bespoke integrated cabinetry, discreet lift controls, frameless glass balustrades and the careful reuse of existing Burlington slate and marble finishes. The result is a more inclusive entrance that respects and reinforces the original architectural intent of this nationally important building.