Architecture and design – Dundee

Maggie's Dundee was built in 2003.

Designed by world-famous architect Frank Gehry, it was the first new-build Maggie’s centre. 

The white, cottage-like building with a wavy silver roof is modelled on a traditional Scottish “butt n’ ben” dwelling, and offers a welcoming sense of calm and sanctuary.

The garden

The garden, designed by Arabella Lenox-Boyd, contains a labyrinth design based on the one at Chartres Cathedral in France. 

The labyrinth is an allegory for life: It isn’t a maze, there are no dead ends, but you have to trust you will find a route through, even though often it feels like you are heading in completely the wrong direction. 

Also in the grounds of the centre is a sculpture by acclaimed artist Anthony Gormley, entitled Another Time X. 

“My initial thought is how impressed I have been with the way in which the staff of the Maggie’s centre and the Local NHS Authority have worked together to make this extraordinary project possible. 

I am delighted to have been involved and hope that my garden gives pleasure and peace to all those who use it. 

Maggie Keswick Jencks was herself a wonderful landscape designer and her original blueprint for the centres placed great emphasis on the role of the landscape and outdoor space in creating a relaxing environment with the emphasis on stress reduction and healing. 

I am delighted to have been involved in such a moving and worthwhile project, combining excellence in design with the best of the human spirit.”
– Arabella Lenox-Boyd

The architect – Frank Gehry

Frank Gehry is an international architect based in Los Angeles, and his famous designs include Bilbao’s Guggenheim Museum. 

Awards:

“Building of the Year”: Royal Fine Art Commission for Scotland
2004 RIAS Andrew Doolan Award for Architecture (Nominated)
2004 Sky Arts Building of the Year

 “I think it’s an inviting building, I think people will want to come inside and spend time there, and I really hope that in some small way it might contribute to a sense of rejuvenated vigour for moving forward and living life”