It’s not unusual for factories to change their function over the years. Many industrial buildings all over Glasgow are now offices or apartments
So you wouldn’t be too surprised to hear that West Brewery was formerly a carpet factory. But you would be surprised to see the iconic architectural grandiose of Templeton Carpet Factory.
James Templeton was so fed up with the city fathers rejecting his planning permission for an extension and rebuilding of his carpet factory that he hired the re-known architect William Leiper to come up with a design they couldn’t possibly disapprove of. Basing his project on the Doge Palace of Venice Leiper used rich, colourful terracotta tiles to allude to the oriental influences that went into creating his famous carpets.
Construction began in 1888 and finished in 1892 but wasn’t without its difficulties. On the 1st November 1889 part of the wall collapsed due to poor scaffolding and high winds trapping 100 female workers in the sheds below. Many were rescued from the rubble but 29 were killed.
Despite this Templeton’s carpets travelled far and wide throughout the world flooring the Whitehouse and the Titanic.
Sadly due to a downturn in the industry the company was taken over by Stoddart’s Carpets in 1981 but closed not long after.
West Brewery opened in March 2006. They offer tours around their brewery and serve food.
If you are visiting Glasgow pop in for a pint and check out this magnificent building.
Know Before You Go
The building is at the east end of Glasgow Green. You really can't miss it.
Follow us on Twitter to get the latest on the world's hidden wonders.
Like us on Facebook to get the latest on the world's hidden wonders.
Follow us on Twitter Like us on Facebook