For over a year the west entrance to the Royal Botanic Gardens, known as the John Hope Gateway, in my home town of Edinburgh, has been closed due to refurbishment of the building located at that entrance. It's finally complete! And it was definitely worth the wait.
Edward Cullinan Architects have successfully paired natural materials, stone and wood, with glass in an uncompromising and impressive way. The combination enables the buildings to blend into the surrounding natural landscape while somehow still standing out with their breathtaking splendour. Here are some photos which will hopefully inspire.
Built of timber, glass and stone the Gateway cuts its impact on the environment with a range of renewable energy systems including biomass fuelled boilers, rainwater recovery, and a roof mounted wind turbine.
Aside from the buildings themselves, the exhibits and interactive sections were highlights for our little family. If you are ever in Edinburgh, include this on your to-do list!
Photos c/o Edinburgh Archtecture, Edward Cullinan Architects and The Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh
I can't wait to go when I am home for Christmas! We quite often go to the greenhouses to get warm in the winter but now we'll be able to go see the new building too! Thanks for sharing - they look fantastic!
Posted by: Di | November 25, 2010 at 10:39 PM
Glad you enjoyed the post Di! It's definitely worth a visit. It's beautiful. Enjoy your time back at home :)
Christie
Posted by: Christie | November 26, 2010 at 08:41 PM
It is truly worth the wait! Anything paired with nature will always result to a relaxing bliss! God! Those flowers make the entire view very refreshing, and as the trees sway with them, the positive energy transcends!
Posted by: Thomas Hill | April 05, 2011 at 06:49 AM