Basic Biographical Details

Name: James ('Jim') Abbot
Designation:  
Born: 25 February 1948
Died: 26 January 2001
Bio Notes: James 'Jim' Abbot was born on 25 February 1948 in England but was educated at Ayr Academy. He studied architecture at the University of Edinburgh. His first post after qualification was with Roland Wedgwood Associates from 1973-75. He moved to Michael Laird in the latter year where 'he undertook a major role in large buildings with an impressive list of clients', such as Standard Life, W L Gore, the Royal Bank and Jenners. His draughtsmanship was of a very high standard - his drawings were considered works of art in their own right - and he handled simple materials such as wood, glass and metal for detailing with much skill. His work with the practice of Michael Laird demonstrated other aspects of his personality in particular his loyalty and commitment.

Abbot remained with Michael Laird for twenty-two years but in early 1998 he left to set up his own practice. One of his first jobs was the conversion of Rachan Mill near Broughton in Peeblesshire for a family home and office for himself. This was awarded a commendation from the Association of the Protection of Rural Scotland. He went on to develop his client base working generally on a smaller scale than previously and in close contact with clients, communities and builders all over Scotland.

Outwith his work Abbot was a keen angler and a great illustrator and artist. He was a member of the Upper Tweed Community Council and the committe of Broughton Village Hall as well as being a Tree Warden with Borders Forest Trust. He was a sociable man and enjoyed the company of family and friends.

He and his wife, Iris, who was a teacher, died in a road accident on the A701 on 26 January 2001. Ironically they had campaigned for improved safety on this road which ran past their house.

Employment and Training

Employers

The following individuals or organisations employed or trained this (click on an item to view details):
 NameDate fromDate toPositionNotes
Item 1 of 2Roland Wedgwood Associates19731975Assistant 
Item 2 of 2Michael Laird & Partners19731998Architect 

Buildings and Designs

This was involved with the following buildings or structures from the date specified (click on an item to view details):
 Date startedBuilding nameTown, district or villageIslandCity or countyCountryNotes
Item 1 of 7 Goretex Factory & Offices, Kirkton CampusLivingston West LothianScotland 
Item 2 of 71975Standard Life Assurance Co  EdinburghScotlandExtension phase 3
Item 3 of 71977Royal Bank Data Centre  EdinburghScotland 
Item 4 of 71979Jenners Workshop and Abbotsford Arms  EdinburghScotlandChange of use from disused furniture factory to shops and goods handling area.
Item 5 of 71985Standard Life officesTanfield EdinburghScotland 
Item 6 of 71992Standard Life House  EdinburghScotland 
Item 7 of 7c. 1998Rachan MillBroughton PeeblesshireScotlandConversion to family home and office

References

Periodical References

The following periodicals contain references to this :
 Periodical NameDateEditionPublisherNotes
Item 1 of 3Glasgow Herald1 February 2001   
Item 2 of 3RIAS Chartered ArchitectMarch 2001v12, no3 Obituary
Item 3 of 3Scotsman1 February 2001   

Archive References

The following archives hold material relating to this :
 SourceArchive NameSource Catalogue No.Notes
Item 1 of 1RIAS, Rutland SquareRecords of membership