Emma Behind Hutchesons clean white façade lies a long and colourful history. Built in the early 1800s, it was designed by one of the great Glasgow architects, David Hamilton and was originally meant to be a hospital for elderly men and a school for poor boys.
Owned by The National Trust for Scotland, the architectural landmark has been used as a public library, bank, school and shops, and has been lying empty for the last five years after extensive water damaged caused by storms in 2008.
Set over three floors and 4’000sq feet, the A-listed white impressive structure features a clock tower in an unusual octagonal design and huge stain glass windows amongst its other charms, and is set to bring at least fifty new jobs to the city centre.
Restaurateur and vice chairman of the Glasgow Restaurant Association James Rusk, hopes that his vision for Hutchesons will give the public the opportunity to experience the building’s history and grandeur in a relaxed, social setting.
He says:
“The building is steeped in nostalgia, a feeling of time standing still and I had an overwhelming urge to clean down the cobwebs, pull off the dust sheets and invite Glasgow round for dinner to feel the energy of this incredible space.
“We’ve been working with the National Trust for Scotland in the background for the last two years trying to bring a new purpose to this unique, standalone building that is soaked in layers of history and culture.
“When I stepped foot inside the grand hall, I instantly knew that I wanted to sympathetically transform this magnificent landmark into a distinctive dining experience for all to enjoy.”
Hutchesons is located at 158 Ingram St, Glasgow, Glasgow City G1 1EJ.
www.hutchesonsglasgow.com or follow on Twitter @hutchesonsGLA or Facebook.com/Hutchesons
