Four dramatically different construction projects across Scotland have been selected as finalists for the country's most prestigious architecture award. The shortlist includes a restored 16th-century Highland tower, a modern road bridge in Aberdeenshire, a university hub at Edinburgh University, and the regeneration of historic gardens in Aberdeen, all competing for the Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award.
The Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) operates this distinguished award, which represents the nation's highest architectural honor. The winner will be announced in December following visits by an expert jury comprising architects and designers. The selection process evaluates projects based on architectural integrity, usability and context, delivery and execution, and sustainability measures.
Mary Duggan, chair of the 2025 Doolan Award jury, emphasized the quality of this year's selections. "This year's rigorous selection process has produced a diverse shortlist of intelligent schemes that not only demonstrate architectural excellence but also engage directly with the shifting political and behavioral circumstances that shape our public life," she stated. "They reveal how architecture can reinforce, respond to, and even anticipate these changes. I look forward to the upcoming visits and the conversations with my fellow jury members."
The first finalist, Fairburn Tower in Muir of Ord, Highlands, was designed by Simpson Brown. This remote Category A listed structure represents a rare surviving example of a Scottish Renaissance tower house, originally built in the 16th century with 17th-century additions. After falling into disrepair and appearing on Scotland's Buildings at Risk Register, the Landmark Trust recognized its potential for rescue and transformation into a self-catering holiday rental. The restoration project balanced authentic historical preservation with creative, sustainable retrofitting, overcoming significant challenges in installing modern electrical cabling, plumbing, and bathroom facilities. Notable features include a Renaissance-style painted ceiling created in collaboration with artist-craftsman Paul Mowbray.
The second finalist is the Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge in Glengairn, Aberdeenshire, designed by Moxon Architects. This new crossing over the River Gairn was specifically designed to redirect traffic away from the nearby Category A-listed Gairnshiel Bridge, which no longer accommodates modern vehicle requirements safely. The understated new bridge features slimline, bold geometry and incorporates recycled, locally sourced granite for parapets and embankments, with weathering steel forming the primary structure. This design approach roots the bridge firmly within its Cairngorms context while providing a simple yet confident companion to the historic crossing, which has been preserved exclusively for pedestrian use.
The third finalist, the Nucleus Building at the University of Edinburgh, was created by Sheppard Robson. This structure serves as the university's new central hub, functioning as both a focal point and meeting place for students and staff. The building integrates teaching, learning, and social environments, supporting various study methods, teaching styles, and social interactions through spaces ranging from quiet individual areas to vibrant meeting zones. The Nucleus Building creates a resilient and responsive learning environment for the world-leading academic community while enhancing the overall student and staff experience, establishing a powerful precedent for Scottish university design.
The final contestant is the Union Terrace Gardens project in Aberdeen, developed by Stallan-Brand Architecture Design and LDA Design. This ambitious public realm regeneration project has transformed Aberdeen's beloved and well-known public space through extensive landscaping and engineering work. The project includes three lantern-like pavilions housing a café, restaurant, and wine bar, successfully reviving the space and reclaiming the gardens as the city's green, civic heart. Conservation efforts sensitively restored statues, railings, arcade arches, and subterranean Victorian toilets, which have been proudly reinstated and reopened to the public.
The Andrew Doolan Award, established 23 years ago in 2002, honors the memory of visionary Scottish architect and developer Andy Doolan, who died in 2004. Doolan passionately believed in promoting exceptional design and making architecture accessible to everyone. The award seeks to identify and celebrate Scotland's best building annually, with past winners including the iconic Scottish Parliament building. The current shortlist was selected from winners of the 2025 RIAS Awards announced in June, ensuring that only the most outstanding architectural achievements compete for this prestigious recognition.
