Tuesday 3 August 2010












The John Hope Gateway at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh was officially opened by Her Royal Highness The Queen on Monday 12th July, 2010.
Roddy Langmuir (Project Director) and Alex Abbey (Project Architect) from ECA attended the opening with their families.

The Queen was joined by the Duke of Edinburgh for the ceremony and were given a tour by RBGE Regius Keeper, Professor Stephen Blackmore of the exhibition and the Biodiversity Garden, where she planted a commemorative Japanese rowan tree.

Roddy then escorted them across the roof terrace and through the restaurant. He explained the key features of the building's design, and she was particularly interested in how some of the key environmental features worked, such as the wind turbine and the rainwater collection.

The Royal Party then descended the timber helical stair to unveil a commemorative plaque and toll an antique bell both located at the foot of the stair. After this they left to visit the Queen Mother’s Memorial Garden.

Afterwards the attendees enjoyed a delicious tea and Alex and Roddy caught up with members of the client and design teams.