William Leiper FRIBA RSA (1839-1916) was a British architect notable particularly for his work in the west central Lowlands of Scotland.[1]
Leiper was born in Glasgow and trained with local architectural firm Boucher & Cousland before competing his training in London with W White and JL Pearson.[1] A turning point in his career came when he was aged 26 and won the commission to build Dowanhill Church in Glasgow's Hyndland. [2]
In his native Glasgow, Leiper was responsible for Templeton's Carpet Factory and the Sun Life Building on West George Street, the banqueting hall of Glasgow City Chambers as well as a number of churches.[1] He also had a reputation for designing residential properties in the city and nearby. His notable works are primarily part of the Arts and Crafts Movement or in the Gothic Revival style.[3]
Leiper was responsible for the design of St Columba's Church and Auchenbothie House in the village of Kilmacolm, Renfrewshire, and a number of works in Helensburgh, Dunbartonshire.[1] One of his residential commissions became the most expensive house sold in the latter town in 2008.[4]
He also worked on the interior of the Russian imperial yacht, Livadia.[1]