National Westminster Bank, 78-80 George Street, Edinburgh

The National Westminster Bank, located at 78-80 George Street in Edinburgh, is an impressive 6-storey, 5-bay Edwardian Baroque office building, originally constructed between 1903 and 1907 by architect J J Burnet. It was altered around 1936 and restored by Ian Burke Associates in 1972. The building features polished cream sandstone with granite bands.

The central three bays are highlighted by a flat proscenium arch that frames a 2-storey recessed portico, which includes a pair of columns and a fascia at the ground floor, all made of fibreglass designed to mimic the original marble and bronze. Above this, there is multi-pane glazing flanked by single-storey entrances, one of which contains banking machines. The second floor has bipartite windows with aedicules on the outer bays. The third and fourth floors are adorned with giant order Ionic columns and have through glazed windows. The fifth floor features an eaves gallery supported by caryatids and has domed end pavilions, along with a balustrade and balconies.

The detailing of the pavilions is echoed on the return elevations. The Rose Street North Lane side showcases a 5-bay elevation made of white glazed tile, with glass curtains positioned between tile piers. The building also includes a variety of timber and metal glazing, along with corniced ashlar stacks.

Inside, the structure has been rebuilt as a modern office block.