Emma A new exhibition in Glasgow shines a spotlight on Scotland’s striking post-war architecture through the lens of photographer Simon Phipps.
Running until 16th May 2026, Brutal Scotland: Scotland’s Post-War Modernist Architecture at Street Level Photoworks, brings together photographs from Phipps’ extensive project documenting 160 Brutalist buildings across Scotland.
Travelling from Inverness to Galashiels, Phipps captures the bold concrete structures that emerged during the wave of post-war optimism in the 1950s–1970s. Designed as part of ambitious programmes of housing, civic development and urban renewal, these buildings have long divided opinion. However, landmarks such as St Peter’s Seminary and Cumbernauld Town Centre are increasingly recognised as important pieces of Scotland’s architectural heritage.
Phipps has spent more than 25 years documenting Brutalist architecture across Britain, publishing a series of acclaimed books including Brutal London, Concrete Poetry and Brutal Wales.
Alongside the exhibition, visitors will be able to purchase the new book Brutal Scotland, along with signed posters and limited edition screenprints produced with Graphical House.
Details
Brutal Scotland: Scotland’s Post-War Modernist Architecture
Where:
Street Level Photoworks, 103 Trongate, Glasgow, G1 5HD
When:
Until 16th May 2026
