Bruce Peter

Bruce Peter is the Professor of Design History and Lecturer/Researcher at the Glasgow School of Art’s School of Design. His research focuses on modern architecture, transport design (especially maritime and rail), and cultural history. He holds a PhD from Glasgow School of Art titled Form Follows Fun: Modernism and Modernity in British Pleasure Architecture 1925-1940.

He has authored over 60 books and articles, including Lusitania to QE2 (2023), Jet Age Hotels (2020), and Form Follows Fun (2007). His work has been exhibited at the V&A and supported by grants like the Royal Society of Edinburgh (2019-2022) and Danish foundations (2021-2024).

Teaching includes coordinating courses in design history and theory at undergraduate/graduate levels. His research has earned awards, including the 2018 Railway and Canal Historical Society award for The Changing Face of British Railways. Current projects include studies on Scottish buses and Danish design influence post-1945.

Media appearances include BBC documentaries on maritime history and regular contributions to Shippax. Upcoming publications include Art Deco Scotland (2025) and collaborations with Historic Environment Scotland.