40 George Square

40 George Square is a 14-story university building that stands 43 meters tall, constructed with reinforced concrete, slate cladding, and Yorkstone in a straightforward modern style. The structure contains lecture theaters, seminar rooms, and group study areas organized around a central sunken courtyard.

The building opened in 1963, designed by architect Robert Matthew and the RMJM firm as part of the University of Edinburgh's expansion during that era. It represents the optimistic modernism that shaped British university campuses in the post-war period.

The building functions as a Study Hub within the University of Edinburgh, providing spaces for academic development and collaborative learning activities.

The building faces George Square, where visitors can see the exterior and explore the sunken courtyard, though interior spaces are primarily for university members. The best approach is to walk around the building to appreciate its design and structure from the outside.

After a major renovation, the building was reorganized with a sunken courtyard that brings together five seminar rooms in an unusual spatial arrangement. This level change creates a sheltered outdoor space in the middle of a densely built university campus.

Location: City of Edinburgh

Location: Edinburgh

Inception: 1963

Architects: Robert Matthew, RMJM

Architectural style: modern architecture

Floors above the ground: 14

Floors below the ground: 1

Elevators: 3

Height: 43 m

Made from material: slate, Yorkstone, reinforced concrete, glass

Part of: University of Edinburgh

GPS coordinates: 55.94320,-3.18665

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:03