Miniature Model Maker Recreates Glasgow Landmark Destroyed by Fire

Miniature model maker recreates Glasgow landmark – Following a catastrophic fire that reduced a beloved Glasgow landmark to ruins, a dedicated miniature model artist has painstakingly rebuilt it in a scaled-down form. Karen Bones, a 54-year-old creator from Larbert, has spent 10 weeks crafting a replica of the historic Union Corner, a Victorian building listed on the B-list. The model, constructed entirely from recycled cardboard, not only captures the structure’s architectural essence but also preserves the businesses that once thrived there. A focal point of the model is its prominent dome, alongside the iconic Irn-Bru and Bell’s signs that once adorned the building’s roof.

The Fire and Its Aftermath

The blaze, which erupted on 8 March in a vape shop, left only the facade of Union Corner standing. Though the fire occurred over a decade ago, its impact remains vivid in Karen’s memory. The building, dating back to 1851, pre-dates Glasgow Central Station, which opened in 1879. Demolition work continues on the damaged structure, with a safety cordon still in place. Despite the destruction, Karen felt a strong urge to immortalize the site in miniature, ensuring its legacy endures beyond the ashes.

Karen Bones: From Artist to Model Maker

For nearly 20 years, Karen worked in the pubs and clubs that once occupied the area, fostering a deep connection to the neighborhood. She transitioned from traditional art forms like painting to cardboard modeling about four years ago, establishing her small business, Bricks & Bones. Her work spans a diverse range of subjects, including iconic Glasgow venues such as the Barrowland Ballroom, historic castles, and quaint coastal cottages. Yet, her latest creation stands out as a deeply personal project, blending technical precision with emotional resonance.

Karen’s model of Union Corner is approximately 25cm high and 50cm wide, making it her largest undertaking to date. She referred to the project as a “monster,” noting the complexity of replicating thousands of hand-cut bricks and roof tiles, along with 74 meticulously spaced windows. “I could have just painted them on, or some might use a 3D printer, but the handcrafted approach gives it a unique charm,” she explained. This attention to detail reflects her commitment to authenticity, even as she aims to highlight the building’s historical significance.

A Sentimental Connection

For Karen, the model carries more than just artistic value—it is a tribute to cherished memories. “My mum ran a hairdresser shop on Cambridge Street, so every Saturday, my dad would take me into town to walk Union Street,” she shared. “It was our special treat, and we’d pick her up from work afterward.” The fire, while devastating, also marked the end of an era for the area. Karen recalled how the businesses along Union Street and Gordon Street had evolved since her childhood, making the project a way to honor the past.

“I had a dilemma before starting because recalling the exact layout of the shops felt overwhelming,” she admitted. “But I wanted to capture the essence of what was lost, not just the buildings, but the community spirit they represented.” To achieve this, she combined photographs from before the fire with online images, ensuring accuracy in the model’s design. The inclusion of the Irn-Bru sign, which sparked her childhood fascination, adds a nostalgic touch, bridging the gap between memory and reality.

The Art of Detail

Karen’s process involved meticulous measurements and careful planning. Working from a renovated caravan in her garden, she transformed the space into a creative studio, allowing her to focus on the intricate work required for the model. The scale replica, while substantial, is surprisingly lightweight, a testament to her innovative use of materials. “It’s a challenge to balance precision with practicality,” she said. “But the joy of seeing each element come together makes it worthwhile.”

She emphasized the significance of the details, particularly the labor-intensive process of cutting and assembling each brick. “The domes and windows needed precise alignment, and every sign had to be scaled down to maintain the building’s character,” Karen explained. Her dedication to handcrafting, rather than relying on modern technology, ensures the model feels distinct and personal. This method, she believes, gives it a human touch that resonates with viewers, offering a sense of warmth and history that machines might miss.

Preserving the Past

Union Corner’s destruction marked the loss of a significant part of Glasgow’s heritage. Karen’s model serves as both a record of its former glory and a reminder of its role in the community. “It’s more than a replica—it’s a story,” she said. “I wanted to show how the building connected people, especially through the businesses that once filled its streets.” The project also symbolizes her personal grief, as it evokes memories of her late father, who often took her on these weekend excursions. “This model is a way to keep those moments alive,” she added.

Karen’s work has already drawn attention from admirers of Glasgow’s architecture. She hopes the model will eventually be displayed in Central Station, where it can be appreciated by a wider audience. “I’d love for it to be part of the station’s collection, so people can see the beauty of Union Corner and understand its place in the city’s history,” she said. The model, she believes, could inspire a renewed appreciation for the area’s past, even as new developments reshape its future.

As the demolition of the damaged site continues, Karen’s creation offers a tangible link to what once was. Her ability to blend artistry with history ensures that the legacy of Union Corner lives on, not just in the hearts of those who remember it, but in a miniature form that can be shared with generations to come. The model stands as a testament to her passion, skill, and the enduring power of creativity to preserve memory in the face of loss.

“After seeing the devastation on the TV, I felt compelled to recreate it because such a big part of my childhood was walking up and down Union Street,” Karen said. “The Irn-Bru sign was always a highlight, and I wanted to bring that back to life.”

With her business growing and her reputation as a skilled model maker solidifying, Karen remains focused on her goal. “I’ve had commissions for other projects, but this one feels different,” she noted. “It’s not just about the building—it’s about the people and the moments that made it special.” Her Union Corner model is now ready for sale, with hopes of finding a home where it can continue to tell its story. As Glasgow moves forward, Karen’s work ensures that the city’s history is never forgotten.

The miniature recreation of Union Corner is more than a tribute; it is a bridge between the past and present. By using recycled materials and handcrafted details, Karen has created a piece that is both environmentally conscious and emotionally evocative. Her model invites viewers to reflect on the building’s significance, the lives it touched, and the resilience of a community that has endured its loss. As she looks to the future, Karen’s project stands as a reminder that art can preserve the essence of what is gone, even as new chapters unfold.