Overview of John Smith

Aberdeen architect. Smith's father was a builder in the city, who was responsible for several houses in Marischal Street. Smith apprenticed with his father before going south to London. In 1807, Smith was made responsible for public works in Aberdeen and also established a private architectural practice. He gained the soubriquet Tudor Johnnie.

Along with Archibald Simpson (1790 - 1847), Smith was responsible for shaping much of the 'Granite City'. His first work was in King Street, but he went on to build widely in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. His finest commission is considered to be the former North Church (now Aberdeen Arts Centre), but other notable work includes Trinity Hall, an impressive colonnaded entrance to St. Nicholas' churchyard, garden design at Balmoral Castle and fisher cottages at Footdee. He lived in King Street behind the houses he had built there.