The career of Robert Rowand Anderson spanned the Victorian era, leaving an indelible mark on the Scottish architectural landscape through his mastery of diverse historical styles. Moving from early ecclesiastical commissions to major civic projects in Edinburgh and Glasgow, he established a practice that defined the aesthetic standards for public institutions during the late nineteenth century.
Formative Training and Early Practice
Born in 1834, Anderson attended George Watson's College and the Trustees' Drawing Academy in Edinburgh. After an initial period in a legal office, he transitioned to architecture, working under John Lessels. A pivotal period followed in 1857 when he joined George Gilbert Scott in London. This experience was supplemented by extensive travel across Italy and France, alongside a brief professional stint with Pierre Cuypers in Roermond. By 1860, he had returned to Edinburgh to establish his own independent practice, initially balancing private commissions with work for the Royal Engineers.
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Anderson gained significant recognition during the 1870s and 1880s for his large-scale projects. He secured the contract for the University of Edinburgh Medical Faculty and the accompanying McEwan Hall, projects that brought him into contact with the 3rd Marquess of Bute. This association led to the design of the new Mount Stuart House. His contributions to the Scottish capital and beyond include the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, the Catholic Apostolic Church, and the Central Hotel at Glasgow Central Station.
Professional Legacy and Later Years
In his later career, Anderson pivoted toward the restoration of historic structures, including Dunblane Cathedral and Paisley Abbey. He demonstrated a strong commitment to education as a trustee of the Edinburgh College of Art and played a key role in founding the Incorporation of Architects in Scotland. Despite becoming a controversial figure in his final years due to professional disputes, his influence was acknowledged with a Knight Bachelor title and the Royal Gold Medal in 1916. He passed away in 1921 and was interred at Warriston Cemetery.
Fast facts
- Born: 1834, Forres
- Died: 1921, Edinburgh
- Citizenship: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland
- Education: Edinburgh College of Art, George Watson's College
- Awards: Royal Gold Medal, Knight Bachelor
- Professional Membership: Royal Society of Edinburgh
- Burial Site: Warriston Cemetery
Questions readers ask
What significant buildings did Robert Rowand Anderson design?
His notable works include the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, McEwan Hall, the University of Edinburgh Medical Faculty, and Mount Stuart House on the Isle of Bute.
What was Anderson's contribution to architectural education?
He was a trustee of the Edinburgh College of Art and founded the Incorporation of Architects in Scotland, donating his Rutland Square townhouse to serve as its headquarters.
Achievements
- Royal Gold Medal
- Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh
- Knight Bachelor
- Trained at Edinburgh College of Art and George Watson's College
