13 of Edinburgh's 'ugliest' buildings - including both St James Centre and St James Quarter
But not every construction in Scotland’s Capital city has met with public approval, and down the years some of the Capital’s buildings have divided opinion. Here we take a look at 13 of Edinburgh’s ‘ugliest’ buildings, the old St James Centre to the new St James Quarter and more.
1. 86 Princes Street
Princes Street's New Club received a Brutalist makeover in 1967. Its neighbour to the west, the Life Association Building of Scotland, was demolished and replaced by a Brutalist retail unit the following year. Photo: Lost Edinburgh
2. Gordon Aikman Lecture Theatre, George Square
Originally the George Square Lecture Theatre when it was opened in 1970, the category B listed building was renamed after the late political researcher and MND campaigner. Photo: WikiComms
3. Argyle House
This unlisted building is located in the West Port area, and has long been regarded by critics as one of the worst eyesores in the city centre. Photo: TSPL
4. Cables Wynd House ‘Banana’ flats, Leith
Cables Wynd House dates back to 1965, but was immortalised in Irvine Welsh’s novel Trainspotting. They were awarded a Category A listing in 2017. Photo: Flickr/Tom Parnell