James Craig (architect)

James Craig (* October 31, 1739 Edinburgh ( Scotland), † June 23, 1795 ) was a builder and architect and planner of the New Town of Edinburgh, which belongs to the world cultural heritage.

Life

As the son of William Craig, merchant and Dean of Guild of Edinburgh, and Mary Thomson, who was a sister of the poet James Thomson (1700-1748), born James Craig attended 1748-1755, George Watson 's College. Because here mainly sons were educated by " deceased and needy dealers," one can assume that James parents did not just lived in prosperity. After school he did an apprenticeship at the architect Patrick Jamie Sion. Nine years later he was admitted ( St. Mary's Chapal Edinburgh Incorporation ) as a full member of the guild of master builder.

James Craig occurs at this time as a builder and architect not very apparent. His design of 1863 for the new Edinburgh North Bridge, however, which is still preserved today, was a few years later implemented by William Mylne.

James Craig architectural achievement that should make him world-famous, was in the planning of the New Town of Edinburgh. On the basis of a competition he won in 1766 for his designs the first prize, a gold medal and was awarded the Freedom of the City ceremony. His designs were 1767 King George III. presented, after they had been repeatedly modified by a committee, which also includes John Adam and William Mylne belonged.

His basic idea of three parallel main roads ( Princes Street, George Street, Queen Street ), bounded by the St. Andrew's Square on the one hand and on the other by the Charlotte Square, was preserved and still dominates the image of the New Town. James Craig only made the plans and was only marginally involved in the design and the construction of new buildings in this district. Important architect who also influenced the classicism of Edinburgh, John Adam was.

Despite intensive effort, he could never build on its success with the urban planning of Edinburgh. He died penniless, sick and bitter in his hometown and was in the cemetery Greyfriars Kirkyard, also known by the dog Greyfriars Bobby, buried.