Biography

Alexander "Greek" Thomson

Alexander "Greek" Thomson (9 April 1817 – 22 March 1875) was a renowned Scottish architect and architectural theorist, known for his pioneering work in sustainable building practices. Despite being featured in the architectural press of his time, his genius was not fully recognized beyond Glasgow during his lifetime. However, since the 1950s and 1960s, there has been a revival of his critical reputation, particularly regarding his potential influence on Frank Lloyd Wright.

Thomson, one of Glasgow's great Victorian architects, drew inspiration from Owen Jones, an architect and theorist famous for his publication "Grammar of Ornament." Using this influence, Thomson developed his distinctive Graeco-Egyptian architectural style, leading to his nickname "Alexander 'Greek' Thomson."

Throughout his career, Thomson designed a wide range of structures, including commercial warehouses, blocks of tenements, terraces of houses, suburban villas, and churches. His architectural legacy is preserved in a special Collection of drawings and sketches held by Glasgow Life. This unique Collection is of particular importance because not much of Thomson's papers were preserved, largely due to the fact that his work gained true appreciation only after his passing. The mission of Glasgow Life is to share this invaluable Collection with the broader public and local community.