In Memoriam: Professor Sir James Dunbar-Nasmith C.B.E.

We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of Professor Sir James Dunbar-Nasmith C.B.E, President of the Scottish Civic Trust.

The practice of Law & Dunbar-Nasmith, established in 1957, built its early reputation on housing, schools and its hugely influential theatre projects including at Inverness, and Pitlochry. The practice also developed expertise in building restoration and conversion. With the practice well-established, Dunbar-Nasmith devoted more of his time to improving professional practice and architectural education. He taught at the Edinburgh College of Art from around 1960, and in 1979 was appointed Professor of Edinburgh University and Head of the Department of Architecture at Heriot-Watt College, where he set up an exemplary and influential course in architectural conservation.

His contribution to civic society was extensive. First as Chair of the Scottish Civic Trust from 1995-2003 and then as our President since 2004, he made an active and valuable contribution to our work and to raising awareness of the importance of Scotland’s built and cultural heritage generally.  As well as his roles with the Scottish Civic Trust, Dunbar-Nasmith supported numerous other heritage and cultural bodies, including the Architectural Heritage Fund, the Edinburgh World Heritage Trust, and the National Mining Museum Trust.

Chair of the Scottish Civic Trust, Sue Evans M.B.E., said: “James Dunbar-Nasmith understood that place and buildings are all about the people that use them, stating; “… unless people love their buildings, they won’t look after them.” As we mark the life and the achievements of our President, we reflect on our continuing role to help people connect to their built heritage and take a leading role in guiding its development, a role that remains as necessary now as when we were established in 1967.”

Fondly remembered as our President, James will be sadly missed by his friends and colleagues at the Trust.