Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s influence can be found all across Glasgow. From jewellery shops proudly displaying his iconic rose designs to buildings you pass on your daily commute, his legacy is woven into the fabric of the city.
By Eva Curran
The Glasgow-born architect and designer, alongside his wife Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh, created a distinctive style that helped shape Glasgow’s artistic identity. Now, more than a century later, Mackintosh’s famous rose has been reimagined for a new generation as part of Glasgow 2026.
Suspended from one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, the Finnieston Crane, The Glasgow Rose is the latest installation from Glasgow 2026. Created by artist Emer Tumility, the artwork celebrates Glasgow’s cultural heritage while looking firmly towards the future.
A Rose on the Clyde
Positioned proudly across from The Hydro, where the spectacular Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony took place on Thursday 23rd July, the installation has transformed one of the city’s most iconic industrial structures into a celebration of creativity, colour and community.
Inspired by Mackintosh’s signature floral motif, Tumility’s contemporary interpretation uses bold colours and patterns to reflect the diversity and energy of modern Glasgow. It’s a reminder that the city’s history isn’t something to simply look back on. It’s something that continues to evolve.
And if The Glasgow Rose has sparked your curiosity, there are plenty of places across the city where you can discover more about Mackintosh and the incredible mark he left behind on Glasgow.
The Mackintosh House
The Hunterian, The University of Glasgow
The closest you can get to Mackintosh is quite literally the inside of his home. Or at least a meticulous recreation of it. Head over to The Hunterian located at the University of Glasgow and you will find The Mackintosh House. The home of Charles Rennie Mackintosh and his wife Margraret Macdonald.
The minimalist interiors showcase the couple’s incredible eye for design, with every detail reflecting their creative partnership. It’s a peaceful and fascinating glimpse into the lives of two of Scotland’s most influential artists.
A top tip: take the time to chat to the staff. Some of the most interesting details and stories come from those who know the collection best.
House for an Art Lover
Bellahouston Park
Nestled within the greenery of Bellahouston Park, House for an Art Lover is a must-visit for anyone wishing to see Mackintosh’s work.
The building is based on designs Mackintosh created in 1901 for a German design magazine competition. Although it wasn’t constructed during his lifetime, the vision was eventually brought to life in 1996, creating one of Glasgow’s most unique cultural attractions.
With stunning interiors, peaceful surroundings, a café and gift shop, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring Mackintosh’s creative world.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum,
Argyle Street
For a closer look at Mackintosh’s designs, head to Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to one of the largest permanent displays dedicated to Mackintosh.
The gallery showcases everything from stained glass and furniture to decorative objects, highlighting the movement that helped put Glasgow on the international design map.
It’s the perfect place to appreciate just how innovative Mackintosh and his contemporaries were – and how their influence continues to inspire artists today.
Mackintosh Tea Rooms
Sauchiehall Street
No Mackintosh trail would be complete without visiting one of the city’s Mackintosh-inspired tea rooms. With beautiful interiors, they offer a chance to enjoy the atmosphere of the era while taking in his unmistakable design style.
Discover Mackintosh Across Glasgow
One of the best ways to experience Mackintosh’s legacy is simply to explore the city he helped define. Take a wander past his statue in Finnieston, spot the Mackintosh-inspired mural near The Clutha, or visit the many buildings that showcase his unique approach to architecture and design.
Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Margaret Macdonald Mackintosh’s bold vision helped shape Glasgow into the creative city it is today. More than 100 years later, their work continues to inspire, evolve and bring colour to the streets we call home.
