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Sean Murphy

The best places in Glasgow to discover Charles Rennie Mackintosh

One of the most famous names to emerge from Glasgow, Charles Rennie Mackintosh came from a working-class background in the city to eventually achieve worldwide acclaim.

The pioneering Glaswegian designer, artist and architect was born in the Townhead area of Glasgow in 1868, before beginning his working life as an apprentice and spending his evenings studying at the Glasgow School of Art.

He and his wife, and fellow artist, Margaret Macdonald, would go on to make their mark on the city of their birth as well as win acclaim in places further afield such as London, continental Europe and New York - though sadly, as with many artists, the greater part of their fame happened after their lifetimes.

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Nowadays, 'The Glasgow Style' movement which they helped to create is widely celebrated, with landmarks, statues and murals all dedicated to Charles Rennie Mackintosh to be found across the city.

Should you be looking to learn more about the life and works of this pioneer, we've picked out some of the best places in Glasgow to discover him.

The Mackintosh Mural, The Clutha Bar

A special tribute to this famous designer was created by local street artist Rogue-One above one of the city's most famous pubs.

It shows not only a portrait of the great man himself but also the incredible design style he was known for.

The Mackintosh statue, Argyle Street

The statue of Charles Rennie MacIntosh on Argyle Street. (Daily Record)

Unveiled on the 90th anniversary of his death, this statue designed by Kelpies sculptor Andy Scott was created to celebrate Charles Rennie Mackintosh's legacy.

The 9-foot tall bronze statue shows the artist in a thoughtful pose, perched upon the famous high-backed chair he designed for Glasgow's Argyle Street Tea Rooms.

The Lighthouse, Mitchell Lane

Now, Scotland's Centre for Design and Architecture, this stunning building was Mackintosh’s first public commission, and even houses the Mackintosh Interpretation Centre.

Affectionately known as the ‘Mack’ Centre, it is a permanent exhibition that details the architect's fascinating life and works.

Don't forget to head up the state-of-the-art helical staircase for a stunning view of the city at the top.

Mackintosh at the Willow, Sauchiehall Street

Described as an 'Art Nouveau masterpiece', the Willow Tea Room was originally designed by Mackintosh for Glasgow-born entrepreneur Kate Cranston and opened in 1903.

Now in the hands of Willow Tea Rooms Trust, it's been restored to its former glory and is a true monument to Mackintosh's genius.

Operating as a tearoom, you can take tours and learn more about his incredible works.

House for an Art Lover, Bellahouston Park

An ode to an unfulfilled design by Mackintosh which was put together in 1901 for a German magazine competition, nearly 90 years later a top team of architects worked to complete his designs and breathe new life into this beautiful example of the Modern Style and Mackintosh's designs.

Opened to the public in 1996 on the grounds of Bellahouston Park, it's since become a haven for weddings, events and exhibitions.

Hill House, Helensburgh

Charles Rennie Mackintosh's Hill House in Helensburgh. (Andrew Milligan/PA)

A bit further out, but truly spectacular to see, Charles Rennie Mackintosh's 1904 masterpiece, the Hill House in Helensburgh, has become a landmark for more than that reason alone.

Absorbing the rain for decades, both the exterior and interior of this stunning monument are at risk. To preserve it, the National Trust for Scotland has created an innovative solution.

A protective steel frame wrapped in the wold's largest chainmail structure now protects the house from the elements.

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