A key phase in the restoration of the iconic North Rotunda was completed this month as a hand-crafted 5.5-ton cupola was installed at the top of the structure, marking a major milestone of the building’s renovation into The Rotunda and Roundhouse.
The project, led by Forrest Hotels and Radisson Red, involves converting the building into two distinct spaces: “The Roundhouse” on the ground floor, a live music and entertainment venue, and “The Rotunda” on the upper floors, designed for weddings, conferences, and events.
The feature, an exacting replica of the original design, has been created over six months from oak and lead, topped with the restored copper weathervane that once crowned the building. The £100,000 structure, which measures five metres in diameter, was craned into place in a carefully coordinated operation.
Keith Vallance of Forrest Group, the developer behind the project, said, “This is a big step forward for this massive project – and it feels like it too.
“Seeing the crane slowly lower this beautiful hand-crafted structure on to the peak of the roof was a real landmark moment.
“It’s exciting to see our plans begin to take shape – the time and effort we have taken to get this right has all been worth it.
“We are creating an exciting new venue but as we always said, we’re doing so in a very respectful way, restoring the structure to enhance the beautiful old features and showcase them in the best way possible.”
Local firms Fultons and Maxwells, both based in Govan, were responsible for the intricate build, with the final lift handled by Forsyth’s using a 150ft crane—watched on by the project team and owners.
Keith said, “A huge team have made this happen today and it really does feel special to look across from The RED Sky Bar and see this beautiful new dome sitting on top of the North Rotunda building.
“There’s a lot of work still to do of course but watching on as the expert team manoeuvered this massive work of art into position felt like a key moment – and of course it is structurally important in terms of allowing other works to kick in now it’s in place.
“It sort of looks and feels like the cherry has been placed on top of the cake – even though we have quite a bit of baking still to do.
“I hope it give people a thrill to see this striking but sympathetic element of the old building – it certainly did for us.. once it was secured in place safely!”
The Rotunda and Roundhouse is scheduled to open in 2026.
Video credit HAWKAYE.COM