# Glasgow School of Art Cannot Rebuild Mackintosh Building Iconic building requires external funding after second fire. - **Source:** [Architecture news and projects | Dezeen](https://brifing.si/source/50c21201-9cc6-48e0-8a7c-6ea605af10c3) - **Published:** 2026-07-23 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/d10eac71-ddb1-44a3-a6c6-69aaea035940 ## Costs Hinder Reconstruction The Glasgow School of Art announced it cannot rebuild the Mackintosh Building after the 2018 fire. Estimated restoration costs of £265 million—five times the school's annual turnover—make the project financially unsustainable. The school is now seeking external investors to fund the reconstruction. ## A Heritage Scarred by Two Fires The Mackintosh Building suffered severe damage in fires in 2014 and 2018. The second blaze broke out during a £35 million restoration effort. Half the building was engulfed within 38 minutes of firefighters' arrival. Restoration work is believed to have accelerated the fire's spread. ## Scaffolding to Be Removed The school plans to remove scaffolding to stabilize and expose the burned-out shell. Temporary and permanent supports will secure the structure. However, full reconstruction depends on securing major investors. School officials are calling for 'visionary individuals' to step forward. ## Architects and Institutions React Architects and heritage organizations criticize the school's decision. Calls are growing for government intervention to preserve the historic landmark. The Royal Institute of British Architects urged Scottish and UK governments to lead the effort. Some describe the situation as a 'historic tragedy.' ## Creative Hub or Faithful Restoration? The school suggests the building could become a 'catalyst for innovation and economic growth.' However, architect Adam Dunlop calls this approach 'shirking responsibility,' advocating instead for a dedicated trust and a skilled architect to oversee a faithful reconstruction. ## Scotland's Icon at Risk The Mackintosh Building was one of Scotland's most famous architectural landmarks. Its potential loss is a major blow to cultural heritage. Experts stress the need to preserve what remains. The future of this iconic structure remains uncertain. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.dezeen.com/2026/07/23/glasgow-school-of-art-mackintosh-rebuild/ — --- _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._