Dovecot Studios is located in the former Infirmary Street Public Baths in Edinburgh.
Dovecot, according to the project web site- “is a world renowned tapestry studio and a landmark centre for contemporary art, craft and design. Established in 1912, Dovecot continues a century-long heritage of collaboration with international artists to make exceptional handwoven tapestries and gun-tufted rugs”.
The Public Baths were built in 1885 and designed by architect Robert Morham. The creation of public washing facilities was in response to the cholera epidemic in the City and was one of the first public health interventions in Scotland.
The Ladies Baths suffered a fire in the 1950s, but the surviving pool continued in use until 1995. The building deteriorated rapidly and was facing demolition. The Dovecot Foundation funded the restoration of the building and following a two-year £12 million restoration, Dovecot Studios opened in 2008. The Ladies Baths is used as an event space, while the tapestry studio occupies the former swimming pool.
The Dovecot Foundation supports the work of the studios and operates a programme of exhibitions and events such as the Biba exhibition featured in the photographs.
