Finding Beauty in Industrial Architecture: MSCP Photography at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital

 Discovering Architectural Beauty in Functional Design

When documenting construction projects, you sometimes discover unexpected beauty in functional structures. While commissioned by J & D Pierce Contracts Ltd to photograph modular office spaces and the helipad at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow, I found myself captivated by the hospital’s multi-storey car park after nightfall.

After finishing the work inside I returned towards where my car was parked and noticed that the Multi Storey Car Park looked really cool at night. Each level was identified by separate colours which I thought was a great idea.

Professional Architectural Photography: Beyond the Functional

I decided to take some photographs of the car park, for the pleasure of it– I have been commissioned to photograph many car parks, mostly nice looking buildings these days. On viewing the images, the colours indicating the various levels appeared to be a distraction to the lines and form of the car park so I decided to edit the images in Black and White, which for me personally made a big difference.

As a specialist in architectural photography and civil engineering documentation, I often find striking visual elements in industrial structures. The MSCP presented a perfect example of how industrial photography can reveal the artistic merit in everyday construction.

Black and white photography has an innate ability to strip away distractions and reveal the raw essence of a subject. It’s a reminder that beauty exists in the everyday, waiting to be discovered. As a commercial photographer, I am continually inspired by the capacity to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary through the lens of my camera.

My Technical Attraction  to Architectural Photography

What makes this multi-storey car park photographically compelling is its blend of functionality and design. At first glance, you notice the practical color-coding system guiding visitors through the levels. But look deeper, and you’ll discover strong geometric lines cutting through space, creating dramatic perspectives. The structural steel elements add an industrial grace, while modern design principles ensure the building serves its purpose without sacrificing visual appeal. Even in such a utilitarian structure, you’ll find thoughtful architectural aesthetics at work.

It’s a reminder that beauty exists in the everyday, waiting to be discovered. On reflection, that’s what I love about my job, bringing the best out of the ordinary.

The Power of Black and White in Industrial Photography

Sometimes colour can distract from underlying architectural beauty. When I converted these images to black and white, the car park’s true character emerged. Without the functional color-coding, you begin to appreciate the pure architectural forms – the way light plays across concrete surfaces and steel beams create bold shadows.

The structural elegance becomes more pronounced, revealing a sophisticated interplay of lines and spaces. Each design element stands out more clearly, from the sweeping curves of access ramps to the textural qualities of different materials.

Taking pride in what you do and enjoying it.

Anyway, although it’s just a “car park” I hope you enjoy the look of the image as much as I do. There is beauty all around us and the thrill of the challenge is seeking it out.

Multi Storey Car Park- Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow. Copyright uk construction photography.

Professional Construction Photography Experience

Our work across industrial and architectural photography has taken us into diverse construction environments. We’ve documented intricate steel fabrication projects where precision and detail are paramount. Commercial buildings have allowed us to capture the relationship between form and function, while infrastructure developments demonstrate engineering on a grand scale. From industrial facilities showcasing operational efficiency to architectural projects highlighting design innovation, each structure presents unique photographic challenges and opportunities.

For more examples of our specialized photography in these areas, explore our steel fabrication projects, commercial buildings, and infrastructure developments.