After finalizing the location of the new Scottish Parliament building, a contest was

held to find the architect that would design that very important building. Secretary
Dewar spearheaded the contest as the chair of the design committee of the
project. He was given the authority to choose among the chosen possible
designs. Different architects submitted their own designs including internationally
acclaimed architects like Richard Meier, Rafael Viñoly and Michael Wilford.

In March 1988, twelve designs get through the screening process then the
following month, further screening trimmed down the list to only five designs. The
final five designs chosen were displayed for public viewing in the whole country.
Public comments indicated that the design made by Catalan architect Enric
Miralles is a frontrunner. The architects of the final five designs each made their
own presentations about their suggested design.

Exactly on the 6th of July 1998, Enric Miralles’ design was affirmed as the winner
of the contest. On the other hand, the construction of the building was awarded
to the EMBT/RMJTM (Scotland) Ltd. This company is particularly established just
for the project of building the new Scottish Parliament. The construction began in
June 1999. After demolishing the Scottish and Newcastle brewery, setting up the
foundation of the building started.