The Glasgow School of Art (GSA) has unveiled the design team which will lead the restoration of its Mackintosh Building.

The Mackintosh library was left badly destroyed in a fire in May 2014. Around 200 firefighters tackled the blaze on 23 May. They managed to save 90% of the structure of the A-listed building and save around 70% of its contents, but serious damage was caused to the premises.

Earlier this year, a five-strong shortlist of architectural firms to lead the restoration was revealed by the GSA. It has now confirmed that Page \ Park Architects has been appointed to the restoration project.

In a statement, Professor Tom Inns, Director of the Glasgow School of Art, said: "The team assembled by Page \ Park Architects impressed us not only with their deep knowledge of the building, but of the wider work of Charles Rennie Mackintosh. They also bring an understanding of the building's particular importance to Glasgow – its people and history - as well as of its status as an international design icon.

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"Page \ Park Architects have ongoing relationships with key crafts specialists and artists in Scotland and wider afield, and presented exciting proposals for expanding the legacy of the restoration by working with a new generation of creative talent."

He added: "This is the beginning of an exciting journey of discovery. There will be many fascinating questions to be addressed as we undertake this complex restoration project. We are looking forward to working in partnership with Page \ Park Architects and the design team to explore how we can best meet the needs of the GSA in the 21st century whilst remaining true to Mackintosh's astonishing vision."

David Page, Head of Architecture at Page \ Park Architects, commented: "Page \ Park Architects are delighted to have won the commission to lead a team to restore the world-renowned Charles Rennie Mackintosh Glasgow School of Art.

"We have, over many years, had the privilege to work on and in the context of the Mackintosh legacy, the highlight of which will now be the opportunity to bring The Glasgow School of Art into splendid re-use for its students and staff, the people of Glasgow and the huge audience beyond the city."

It is understood Page \ Park Architects will also establish an external expert advisory panel for the restoration, further details of which, will be released shortly. The design team will now work alongside The Glasgow School of Art to develop a detailed plan for the restoration.

Work is expected to commence on the building in spring 2016, with academic access anticipated to be available from 2017-18.

(JP)