Simply..impressive....

2/12/2023

I noticed the building featured in this post only because my bus stop had been moved. I looked it up on the way home and thought I would like to see inside and took the opportunity on that day out in the time between the two concerts. As we walked in - it is the headquarters of the Bank of Scotland - a man stepped out from behind a very inposing desk and asked if he could help. When he realised we were not there on business he began discreetly walking us back towards the door, but when I said I was interested in the architecture it quicky became clear that her knew a lot about the building and its history, and we had a lovely conversation. (He called the building 'she')

Sadly, the feature I especially wanted to see - the atrium - has been floored over. It no londer exists

I have found a book called Fragments of Glasgow with photographs of many old Glasgow buildings, which I think I may have to have for Christmas!

10 Comments

Karen

3/12/2023 01:39:50 am

Thank you for this explanation, Freda.
Interesting that 'Lloyds Banking Group' is above the door.

Freda

3/12/2023 02:33:46 pm

I believe it is now owned by Asian investors who bought it for £50 million.

Mary R.

3/12/2023 07:10:56 am

I liked your words “discreetly walking us back towards the door”. I imagined he was kind.

Freda

3/12/2023 02:34:37 pm

he was kind, but also very professional.

Mary

3/12/2023 07:22:03 am

This reminds me of the time several years ago when we went into a restaurant (not to eat) because you were interested in seeing the interior architecture. Dove into my archives to find a photo I'd taken--very moorish, tiled walls and arches, tall intricately designed ceilings and lovely chandeliers. Cannot remember the name of the place but clearly your love of design in all forms draws you in every time. Think we ended up having breakfast at Mackintosh at the Willow that same day. Loads of architectural/design photos taken there! :)

Freda

3/12/2023 02:37:55 pm

oh yes! It used to be the bank of India and is now the cup tear room. Fascinating but not nearly as beautiful as McIntosh. We had a fun time.

Gwendoline

3/12/2023 08:02:59 am

The University branch of Lloyds in Cambridge is magnificent inside too. I will sometimes go in to look at the fabulous tiles rather than just use the machines in the lobby. I also like to keep 'using' real people instead of machines when I can just on principle.

Freda

3/12/2023 02:42:52 pm

Banks often have interesting interiors, and I am fully with you as regards dealing with real people rather than machines!

Mary B

3/12/2023 02:24:01 pm

I'm glad he was kind and understanding about your curiosity and interest . The exterior of the building certainly looks impressive.

Freda

3/12/2023 02:43:39 pm

I think he really enjoyed telling us about the building.

Simply..impressive....

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