How about a building designed to inspire future generations of zoologists? That is the Graham Kerr Building. It stands here as a testament to architectural vision and scientific ambition.
Welcome to the Graham Kerr Building at the University of Glasgow. This Category A listed building is an outstanding work by Sir John James Burnet. Burnet was a notable Glasgow architect.
The Graham Kerr Building marks a transition. It bridges the Baroque characteristics of Burnet’s earlier works. It also shows the early modern direction of his practice at this period. The design showcases this evolution. It features deeply channelled ashlar facings.
The Graham Kerr Building is named after Sir John Graham Kerr. He was an evolutionary embryologist. In 1902, he was appointed to the Regius Chair of Natural History (Zoology).
Graham Kerr arrived in Glasgow to find inadequate conditions. The Zoology teaching facilities were poor. They consisted of some poorly appointed rooms. These rooms were beneath the Hunterian Museum. The Hunterian Museum was in the main Gilbert Scott building.
Kerr described the situation. He said there was no zoological laboratory. The eastern half of the Hunterian Museum’s lower hall was used. It was used for practical work. It had no scientific equipment. The floor was littered with geological debris. Entry was via wooden steps. The steps went through one of the windows.
From 1903, Graham Kerr campaigned. He wanted a new Zoology building. It needed to be suitable for modern teaching and research. By 1914, he had agreement. The University authorities agreed to his plan. World War I delayed the development. Construction began in 1921.
John James Burnet was the lead architect. He provided the overall scheme. He was busy with other work. Much of the drawing was done by Glasgow office draughtsmen. Norman Aitken Dick, a partner in Burnett’s Glasgow firm from 1907, did detailed work. He also oversaw construction.
Burnet studied new science laboratory design in the USA in 1896. He succeeded George Gilbert Scott. He became Glasgow University’s main architect. He focused on science buildings. Burnet and his architect partner John Archibald Campbell studied in Paris. They attended the Ecole des Beaux Arts. Many of their Glasgow buildings reflect their academic classical training. They trained under Jean-Louis Pascal. Burnet’s other Glasgow buildings include the Glasgow Institute of Fine Arts. Also included are the Clyde Port Authority and the Athenaeum.
The Graham Kerr Building opened in autumn 1923. It is made of grey Northumberland sandstone. The sandstone is cut into ashlar blocks. Deep channelling runs around most of the building.
Inside the Graham Kerr Building, BOYCO collaborated with Clark Contracts Limited. They provided end-to-end project management. This included drawings and installation. They also supported ECD Architects. They ensured that the University of Glasgow’s requests were fulfilled.
The building is on a busy campus. It was important to prioritise staff and student safety. This was during the transport of fixed furniture to the site. Large vehicles were escorted through the site. Strict requirements were completed before 8 am. This was prior to peak lecture and classroom time.
Specialist focus was on utilising the current area. There were little to no invasive changes to the building’s structure. Bespoke options were tailored to perfectly fit the space.
Base cupboard units were installed. Wall Cupboard Units and Open Shelf wall units were also installed. These were comprised of Melamine Faced Chipboard MFC. The MFC is scratch and stain-resistant. The colors selected were white with a grey trim.
Inside the cupboards, bespoke pull-out trays were included. These store heavy-weight microscopes. They also store other science equipment.
Trespa Solid Grade Laminate was selected for the Laboratory worktops. This is also known as SGL. SGL is chemical resistant. It offers superior impact, scratch and abrasion resistance. Corian Glacier White Sinks with a seamless setting were installed. Single Goose-Neck Lab Taps were also installed.
1000m Long Triangle Trunking with Double Sockets was supplied. This gave students access to a power source.
The Graham Kerr Building has a museum inside. Team BOYCO is proud to have brought new life to the Zoological Department. They continue Sir John Graham Kerr’s legacy.
As you leave the Graham Kerr Building, consider the generations of scientists. They have walked these halls. They have been inspired by this architecture. May it continue to inspire for many years to come.