Scottish architects From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Richard and Robert Dickson (usually simply referred to as R & R Dickson) were brothers, acting as architects in Scotland in the early and mid-19th century. Whilst most of their work is typified by remote country houses they are best known for their magnificent spire on the Tron Kirk in the heart of Edinburgh on the Royal Mile.[1]
They were the sons of John Dickson (1766–1828), an Edinburgh builder. Their mother was Mary Crichton, sister to Richard Crichton (1771–1817), an Edinburgh architect, and they appear to have trained under him, taking over his office upon his death.[2]
Their offices were at 9 Blenheim Place near the top of Leith Walk a handsome and unusual building forming part of a terrace designed by Playfair and built by their own father in 1824. It is possible that the unit was in lieu of payment for this stylish row, characterised by its being the only flat roofed Georgian terraced "bungalows" (with basement for servants) in Edinburgh.[3]
They designed in a variety of styles from Gothic to Classical. There buildings are both sound and attractive and most are now listed buildings.
Richard (1792–1857) was the older of the two. He is buried in Old Calton Cemetery with his parents.[2]
The impressive spire on the Tron Kirk on the Royal Mile (1828) rebuilt in a Wren style following the Great Fire of Edinburgh of 1824 in which the original spire was destroyed
Muirhouse in rural north-west Edinburgh (1830) now encompassed by the city
Veterinary College, Clyde Street, Edinburgh (1833) closed 1916 to move to Summerhall. Building demolished to build a cinema c.1930 and then cleared for St Andrew Square Bus Station
West lodge, Blair Drummond (1836) note- the brothers probably worked on the main house (designed by Richard Crichton) during their apprenticeship
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