plaque · Aberdeen
Thomas Scott Sutherland

This plaque commemorates Thomas Scott Sutherland, a notable figure in Aberdeen's civic and architectural landscape. Known widely as Tommy Scott Sutherland, he was a distinguished architect and entrepreneur, whose contributions extended beyond his professional practice. His legacy is particularly remembered through his significant philanthropic acts, which greatly benefited the educational institutions of the city. The plaque serves to mark a place of residence for an individual who left a lasting impression on Aberdeen's development and its academic community during the mid-20th century.
The mid-22nd century in Aberdeen saw a period of considerable post-war reconstruction and civic development, a time when individuals like Thomas Scott Sutherland played a crucial role in shaping the urban environment. As a city councillor, Sutherland contributed to local governance, while his architectural background informed his understanding of urban planning and design. His commitment to education, exemplified by his gifting of Garthdee House, reflects a broader philanthropic tradition among successful citizens during this era, who sought to invest in the future intellectual and professional capital of their communities, ensuring the advancement of specialised fields like architecture within Aberdeen.
The plaque is located at 27 Albyn Place in Aberdeen, fixed to a building that was once the residence of Thomas Scott Sutherland. Albyn Place is a prominent street within the city, known for its elegant architecture. Visitors can easily find the plaque at this address, offering an opportunity to connect with the historical presence of a significant local figure. The setting allows for respectful viewing from the pavement, providing a moment of reflection on the contributions of individuals to Aberdeen's civic and educational heritage.
Inscription
“Thomas Scott Sutherland 1899-1964 architect, city councillor and entrepreneur lived here”
Background
Thomas Scott Sutherland, known commonly as Tommy Scott Sutherland, or simply Scott Sutherland (13 January 1899 – 13 June 1963) was an architect, city councillor in Aberdeen, and entrepreneur. In the 1950s he gifted Garthdee House to the Gray's School of Architecture at Robert Gordon's College, later the Robert Gordon University. The former was renamed the Scott Sutherland School of Architecture.
Source: Open Plaques. Geographic data via OpenStreetMap.