Obituary: Philip Spence, architect known for his work in Glasgow

Died: March 1, 2019

WALKING through the streets of Glasgow, it’s difficult to avoid the life and works of Philip Spence, who has died aged 85. From historic and listed building refurbishments to civil engineering designs, new builds and special needs housing, there are many signatures of his work throughout the city and beyond.

Formerly principal of Philip Spence Associates architectural practice, he was responsible for a wide spectrum of design works in Glasgow, throughout Scotland and on occasion, abroad. Over 40 years of association with international consulting engineers meant a strong development into building for water and sewerage treatment works. His expertise and innovation was recognised through a Saltire Award for Civil Engineering in 1986, for work at Shieldhall Sewerage Works.

Philip Spence was born in Airdrie, and, after moving to Coatbridge, jointly founded Coatbridge Rugby Club where he participated as a player, and ultimately as president. When the scrums became too much at the age of 39, he substituted his first love in sport, with golf. His passion for supporting Scottish rugby carried on till our last match on 23rd February when he was willing our national team over the try line to victory. Alas it was not to be, but like our team, he never gave up hoping.

He began his career studying at the Glasgow School of Architecture, kick-started when he won an ARCUK scholarship. After qualification and a period of national service in the Department of Fortification & Works with the Royal Engineers, he joined a private architectural practice where he later became a partner (Robert Rogerson and Philip Spence).

He then took the helm of Philip Spence Associates where he designed over 50 church projects as well as a large portfolio of developments for the disabled and elderly. His work housed the literary references of the city in the district libraries of Cardonald, Ibrox and Hillhead and he also had a flutter on the gee-gees designing a new grandstand at Perth Racecourse and refurbishment projects at Hamilton Park Racecourse.

He was a pioneer in independent housing for the disabled and the elderly, designing sheltered housing complexes in and around Glasgow, as well as independent Abbeyfield Society housing care for the elderly that gave a new found freedom and community environment to residents.

In addition to a wide portfolio of designs that made their mark on the city, he designed and built the family house in 1970 to accommodate his wife and two young daughters. He started in April and in true “Grand Designs” style he set a budget and deadline of August when his daughters were starting new schools. In stark contrast to the reality show, he completed his personal creation on time and on budget – the sure foundations of the Spence family’s life for 19 years.

He was one of the stalwarts at Rutherglen Rotary Club for over 50 years, taking on the presidency and a myriad of duties. He was an RIBI Paul Harris Fellow, an accolade traditionally reserved to mark exceptional service to Rotary and contributions to The Rotary Foundation. During his time with Rutherglen Rotary, he was instrumental in raising thousands of pounds for local charities and giving his time to needy causes.

After his retirement in 1997 he rekindled his love of painting. His ever positive outlook on life gave him a new perspective through his artwork which varies from a wide range of landscapes to racehorses (presumably inspired by his brush with the racing fraternity).

He raised hundreds of pounds for local charities through various exhibitions of his work and today his artistic legacy lives on in the Spence Gallery in Crieff.

He was a gentleman well respected and much loved by the city and its communities. Although he retired in the late 90s he continued to participate in business on many advisory boards and committees, sharing his knowledge with a confident and pragmatic approach to construction and general management issues which required fair, consistent and knowledgeable advice. He was a font of knowledge for many and committed to charitable causes such as The Scottish Cremation Society where he was a director and highly valued advisory for over 20 years.

He retained an honourary fellowship of the Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland, was a member of the Glasgow Art Club for over 60 years, a past deacon of the Incorporation of Tailors, a member of the Incorporation of Wrights and an active member of community groups and advisory boards throughout Glasgow. His vast amount of professional knowledge and personable style made him a natural associate of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. He also served on the Church of Scotland Board of Social Responsibility.

Right up to the age of 85 he was a pillar of the community in his local church – Sherbrooke Mosspark where he caught up on gossip at the door welcoming the congregation and holding art exhibitions to raise funds for many different causes. It was not only his wisdom and professional expertise that people valued, but his sincere kindness, measured judgement and exceptional sense of humour.

He showed immense bravery and stoic determination over the past few years, battling against cancer with the dignity and concerted optimism that was his forte.

One of his favourite toasts is fitting to raise a dram to the late Philip Spence - “Here's tae us, wha's like us? Damn few — and they're a' deid!"

KAY ASCHABER