Report on The Scottish Parliament Building (Edinburgh) Assignment

Report on The Scottish Parliament Building (Edinburgh) - Assignment Example The building was officially opened by the great Queen Elizabeth on 9th October, 2004. The first debate to be held in the building was on 7th September, 2004. Since its construction, the building has been successful in achievement of its objectives and has won various awards as well as the Sterling Prize of 2005. Construction of Scottish Parliament Building The Scottish parliament building design has been rated among the most innovative in British even to date (Heaphestus, 2011, p.17). This is because of the materials used to make it, comprised of a mixture of oak, granite and steel. The building is also a combination of many buildings, showing diverse architectural styles. However, the construction of the building was not easy. It brought up heated arguments and faced very strong criticisms. The construction company received criticisms from the media, politicians and the general Scottish public. This did not hinder its completion and today, it is the most adored building whose story and attractive nature continue to attract millions of people. Due to the criticisms and the political environment surrounding the construction of the building, Scottish parliament building was completed three years later than the planned time (Dainty, 2006, p. 179). According to plans, the building was estimated to cost around 40million and be completed by 2001. This was not the case as it cost 414million and was completed in the year 2003. The Scottish parliament building was constructed with features which ensure its sustainability. To begin with, the building was constructed on Brownfield which has good proximity to public transport and the hubs. These have been seen to be very sustainable. The building also has solar panels, which assist in saving energy up to 80%, the building thus relies more on its renewable sources of energy than the purchased electricity. The building possesses features, which are linked to land and nature. It has motifs which are leaf shaped and its roof n ear the garden lobby. The debating chamber has large windows. While one is inside the building, you will not fail to notice the link of land reinforced using Scottish rock like granite on the walls and gneiss. Sycamore and oak is also used in its furniture’s construction. Management of the Project There has been sound management of the Scottish parliament building project (Alec & Burnside, 2010, p.142.). This achievement however, was arrived at, after a bitter struggle which saw the cost of the entire project multiply over ten times of the original estimate. It also delayed three years behind time schedule. The fact that there were changes in major design and costs of the project, the management of the project was in question and a commission of enquiry was set to investigate into the matter. Right from its inception, the management foreseeing the construction received constant pressure as to the location, design, architect and the company awarded the contract of constructing the building. Despite these, the building has been very instrumental in representing national identity and uniting the Scottish people, their landscape, Edinburgh city and the culture. Taking into consideration uniqueness of the project, the project manager was questioned as to whether he provided the best