01 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
Architects Eric Miralles and RMSM were winners of the international competition to design a building for the new Scottish Parliament in the late nineties. Eric Miralles died before construction was completed. 
02 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
From the start of construction in 1999 to the opening by Queen Elizabeth in 2004, and later, it was a controversial project. 
03 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
Its location, design, construction problems and delays and a cost increase from an estimated £40 million to a final £414 million prompted a spectrum of condemnation and praise.
04 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
It is not a building to prompt a neutral response. The organisation of its individual forms is complex. There are contrast between smooth concrete and intricate detailing in other materials. In parts a rhythm is created through the repetition of similar forms.
05 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
There is a sense of the fortress about the building but with public access through passages and under canopies on the periphery. The stepped and wild-grassed area to the southeast suggests an outdoor parliament or theatre. 
06 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
Dry summer weather has bleached the grass roofing some low structures to the east.
07 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
The pale and finely finished concrete surfaces look well new, but will time and weather disfigure as they have in nearby late twentieth century buildings?
08 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
This canopy to the east is aesthetic rather than a practical protection from the elements.
09 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
The bollards and curving frontage flank a pedestrian entrance from Canongate.
10 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
Part of the internal massing of the design carries barred and solid abstract forms seemingly without function.
11 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
Contemporary and traditional forms and materials are combined in the complex design.
12 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
A restored building is incorporated into the northern perimeter.
13 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
The south-west corner combines austere block forms with flat protective barriers. 
14 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
The constant changes of form and the contrast of simplicity and detail are stimulating.
15 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
Abstractions stand against a clear, cool Scottish sky.
16 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
Protected by tall concrete panels, a stack of windows project from the western façade. 
17 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
A projecting window forms a compact sitting area for each of the parliamentarian's rooms.
18 THE SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT BUILDING
Another abstraction set against a dark sky. When Parliament is adjourned, visitors can see a bravura display of engineering and woodworking in the Debating Chamber.
