# Collective Architecture Transforms Paisley Building Into Community Library The renovated Scottish high street site earns a spot on the prestigious Doolan Award shortlist. - **Source:** [Dezeen](https://www.dezeen.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-06 - **Topic:** [culture](https://brifing.si/c/culture) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/4dbcb31c-83b1-4c4f-a44c-80db8d2cf3b1 ## Civic Space Revitalization Collective Architecture has successfully converted a dilapidated high-street building into the new Paisley Central Library. The project focuses on creating a welcoming civic environment designed for community members to dwell. By prioritizing social accessibility, the design team aimed to foster public engagement beyond the traditional function of a book lending facility. ## Design Philosophy Goals Studio director Ewan Imrie emphasized that the client requested a space inclusive of all societal groups. The architectural strategy prioritizes the act of lingering over mere book circulation. This approach transforms the library into a versatile hub featuring dedicated reading areas, flexible event spaces, and a quiet study room for residents. ## Prestigious Award Recognition The Paisley Central Library project is currently shortlisted for the RIAS Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award. Established in 2002, this annual accolade celebrates architectural excellence across the nation. The winner of this year's competition will be officially announced on 26 November, highlighting the most significant contributions to Scottish architecture. ## Focus on Building Reuse This year's award shortlist features three distinct reuse projects, reflecting broader industry conversations regarding retrofit and community collaboration. The inclusion of Paisley Central Library underscores the importance of repurposing existing urban structures. These efforts demonstrate how architects can breathe new life into aging high street properties while maintaining local heritage. ## Notable Competition Entries Paisley Central Library competes alongside the Edinburgh Futures Institute, designed by Bennetts Associates, and the Tarlair Outdoor Pool Pavilion by Studio Octopi. These projects represent a diverse range of architectural interventions across Scotland. Each entry highlights unique strategies for modernizing historic or neglected sites to serve contemporary public needs and community interests. ## Documenting Architectural Impact Photographer Jim Stephenson has documented the project as part of a collaborative video series with the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland. These films provide viewers with an intimate look at the shortlisted designs. The series aims to showcase the technical and social impact of the projects featured in the 2026 award. ## Historical Award Context The Andrew Doolan Best Building in Scotland Award has consistently highlighted innovative design since its inception over two decades ago. Last year, the top honor was awarded to a public park project renewed by Stallan-Brand and LDA Design. This history reflects the award's evolving focus on public-facing and sustainable architectural developments. ## Future Urban Implications The success of the Paisley library conversion serves as a model for urban regeneration in Scotland. By prioritizing community-centric design, architects can effectively combat high street decline. Future developments will likely continue to emphasize retrofit strategies, as these projects prove that functional, welcoming spaces can emerge from existing, neglected building stock. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.dezeen.com/2026/11/06/collective-architecture-paisley-central-library-rias-doolan-award/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._