Preston Tower project wins national architecture award
Preston Tower in Prestonpans has been announced by the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS) as one of 10 outstanding buildings which are winners in the 2026 RIAS Awards – the annual awards programme recognising the very best in Scottish architecture.
A heritage project involving significant repair work took place at Preston Tower in an excellent demonstration of what can be achieved working in partnership with local residents including the community council, Groves-Raines Architects Studios, Friends of Preston Tower Group, Historic Environment Scotland and the National Trust for Scotland, which owns the building.
The judges described the project as one that ‘exemplifies careful stewardship of heritage, combining delicacy, rigour and social relevance to produce a building and landscape that is enduring, inspiring and beloved by its community’.
Provost John McMillan said: “Huge congratulations to all involved in this project, which has been recognised several times in the last couple of years since its completion. This was a really carefully planned project, for the benefit of the local community, giving access to this historic building, parts of which date back to the 15th Century. The new lighting, interpretation boards and staircase have really enhanced the visitor experience and of course the work has helped to preserve the building for the enjoyment of future generations.”
The repair project to the tower, doocot and gardens was funded from a variety of sources including the Scottish Government through its Town Centre Fund and Place Based Investment Programme, as well as the UK Government's UK Shared Prosperity Fund and by the National Trust for Scotland.
Sarah MacKinnon, Head of Building Conservation at the National Trust for Scotland, said: “The Preston Tower project focused on community engagement and thoughtful interventions to continue to provide access for future generations. It was an exemplar, addressing the needs of this ancient monument, but with the ongoing support of the Friends of Preston Tower, it will also provide a new generation with a chance to see what makes it so special.”
For more information on the awards, visit the RIAS website.