Glasgow's Leading Attractions

The Lighthouse, Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture, is based within the former Glasgow Herald building. The building is one of the first public commissions that Charles Rennie Mackintosh worked on.

Our permanent Mackintosh Interpretation Centre, designed by Gareth Hoskins Architects, not only showcases the world-reknowned designs of Charles Rennie Mackintosh (with particular focus on four key buildings) it also places his life and work within a timeline, giving the visitor a sense of his influences and the context of his work.

The main portion of the exhibition leads to the foot of the helical staircase within the Mackintosh tower. From the top of the Mack Tower it is possible to see some spectacular views over Glasgow.

The final section looks at the latter years of his life in Porte Vendres and London. It focuses on the reputation, influence and legacy of his work. This part of the exhibition details changes in how Mackintosh's work has been perceived since his death by using comment from contemporary designers and examples of how he is viewed by today's media.

Exhibitions and Events


Review Gallery (First Floor): Summer Architecture Academy
Icecream Architecture will work with in-house MAKLab, students, local enthusiasts and the public to create a series of grassroots events and workshops, including a physical map of the Glasgow riverside, to initiate a dialogue regarding the area’s potential for regeneration. The academy will end in an exhibition in The Lighthouse and a closing event. 
OPPORTUNITY: Voluntary positions at the Summer Academy [LINK]
16 May - 25th June

Gallery 1: White Space Exhibition
A showcase of a variety of design, animation, film and illustration work of 20 recent graduates from the University of the West of Scotland, displaying both traditional and digital art and design. Including interactive media design, flash and 3D animation, sculpture, graphic design, web design, illustration, photography, film and more. Regardless of your tastes, there’ll be something for everyone.
17 May - 22 May

Gallery 2: Family of Schools Exhibition
Explore examples of context-driven school design in Scotland, focussing on examples in the Western Isles, Borders and Highlands. The exhibition looks at how school designs can respond to their surroundings, culture, and environment, as well as creating new ideas in old buildings through innovative interior design. Featuring a selection of drawings by Professor Alan Dunlop that convey some of the core design qualities we aspire to in all Scottish schools.
25 April - 19 May

Gallery 3: The Mackintosh Interpretation Centre
Our permanent Mackintosh Interpretation Centre or 'Mack' Centre, designed by Gareth Hoskins Architects, celebrates Glasgow's most famous architect and explores his life and work and is the ideal place from which to start the Mackintosh trail. Here you can also see how the former Glasgow Herald building (Mackintosh's first public commission) was transformed into The Lighthouse, Scotland's Centre for Architecture, Design and the City.
Ongoing

Gallery 4: Foundation: Glasgow - Story of a City
A unique and fun journey through time telling the story of Glasgow, the place and the history. Discover Glasgow and its people through the ages and enjoy a stunning 360° bird's eye panoramic view of the city and beyond. OFFER: 2 for 1 entry to Foundation with a Glasgow's Leading Attractions coupon
Ongoing

Tours (ALL NEW)
Whether your interests lie in contemporary architecture and design or if you want to discover more about Charles Rennie Mackintosh, our tours are the perfect way to gain an insider's guide to The Lighthouse. Call to reserve a morning tour for groups up to 15 people.

Opening Times
Monday - Saturday: 10:30 - 17:00
Sunday: 12:00 - 17:00