Goodson Associates was appointed in 2016 as part of the team to design a new purpose-built visitor centre to house the Great Tapestry of Scotland in the heart of Galashiels. The dramatic geometry of the roof draws the eye while blending into the traditional Victorian pitched roof skyline.

The two-storey building was designed with an open plan on the 1st floor to showcase the tapestry without obstruction, being lit by a central lightwell. The ground floor houses a temporary gallery space, reception, shop and café along with an education space in the adjoining listed post office building that was refurbished as part of the project.

The Gallery is situated 5 minutes walk from both the train and bus stations along with bike parking positioned alongside adding to the sustainable goals of the building.

The building has used steel construction throughout to provide the striking geometric shapes in the pitched roof while providing an area clear of columns in the upper gallery. Typical CHS horizontal and vertical bracing was used to provide the stability with the pad foundations formed on the natural clays in the area.

Of note is the feature lightwell in the upper gallery. Not only does this provide the natural light but the ring beam forms the main structural element holding the roof rafters and ties in position and allowing the specific geometry required.